Business-focused custom software

Recently a prospective client contacted me about upgrading her e-commerce site. She had been researching e-commerce options and had found one that she thought was a good fit. Unfortunately she was having trouble finding a local vendor who supported it because there are lots and lots of e-commerce choices and everyone has picked something different to support.

My suggestion: stop focusing on the shopping cart or technology choice, and instead focus on the features that are important for the business. It is likely that there are many different choices that will meet her needs, and by settling on one without a vendor she was backing herself into a corner. If she can clearly define what she needs, the right vendor will help her find a shopping cart solution that they are comfortable working with.

It is okay to learn more about technology if it helps you make better decisions. But it is most important to focus on your business objectives because only you truly understand your business needs. The right software consultant can help you with the technology choices.