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Still managing your customers with scattered spreadsheets and scribbled notes?  It may have worked in the past, but let’s be honest! It just might be holding you back now.  We are living in a day and age where the digital world is all about building everlasting customer relationships. And that requires more than just memory or investing manual effort.  Introducing CRM - a customer relationship management solution.  Think of it as your business’s secret weapon - a smart & streamlined system which allows you to easily track customer interaction and turn such interactions into loyal customer groups.  Today, we are going to help you learn how you can invest in your own CRM - which is not just nice to have but also non-negotiable. From must-have features to building your CRM from the ground up, we will explain everything you need to know to upgrade your customer game.  So without further ado, let’s delve right in and explore the world of CRM development. 

Why Does Your Company Need a CRM Software Solution? 

In a world where customer expectations are higher than ever, businesses can no longer afford to rely on outdated methods to manage relationships. CRM systems are no longer a luxury—they’re a necessity. They bring structure to chaos by centralizing customer data, automating routine tasks, and delivering insights that fuel smarter decisions. With rising competition and shrinking attention spans, a CRM helps you stay one step ahead - offering faster service, more personalized experiences, and stronger follow-ups. Simply put, if you're not using a CRM, you're missing out on the most efficient way to grow and retain your customer base in today’s digital-first marketplace. Here are a few more reasons to highlight the significance of using a CRM. 

Centralized Customer Information

A CRM can organize all your customer data—contacts, history, preferences—and organize it all in one place. When you’re using a CRM, you don’t have to search through emails or files. You can have the information organized and keep the data at your fingertips.

Improved Customer Service

One useful benefit of CRM is how it allows your sales force to respond quickly to desired customers. Your sales team can study past interactions to better understand customer requirements and offer more personalized and efficient support to build trust.

Better Sales Management

Our CRM also offers easy lead management for tracking leads, monitoring pipelines, and forecasting sales, all in real time. This way, your sales professionals can also have clarity on the sales process, which eventually helps you close deals in a fast and efficient way.

Run Better Marketing Campaigns

Another leading benefit of having CRM software is how it allows you to segment your audience, automate follow-ups, and also track performance. With CRM, you can build targeted campaigns which are actually designed to convert the audience into returning customers.

Effective Collaboration

A decent CRM software is one that keeps everyone on the same page—marketing, sales, and support teams can access shared data and run updates. Easy and quick collaboration often helps the sales department ultimately improve teamwork and receive results on the go.

Data-Driven Decision Making

CRM also helps with visualizing trends, tracking KPIs, and generating reports. A decent CRM holds the capability to turn raw data into actionable insights and perform smarter business decisions, making it easier for CRM specialists to make important decisions.

What Are the Essential Features of a CRM Software Solution? 

To make your CRM standout, there are a few essential features you will need to meet growing business demands. To list down a few, we have shortlisted the following. 

• Contact Management 

Contact management lets you centralize and organize all customer information in one place. You can easily access contact details, check interaction history and take notes, all leading to a comprehensive view of each customer and building a better profile for exceptional relationship management. 

• Sales Automation 

CRM lets you automate sales with interesting features such as lead magnets and automated follow-ups. You can remove manual tasks, increase your overall sales productivity and make sure leads appear where you expect them to. 

• Marketing Automation 

Another leading benefit of having a CRM solution is to leverage targeted marketing campaigns. Tracking is an essential task for lead capture as it helps with nurturing leads, improving conversion rates and providing insight into achieving marketing effectiveness.  

• Analytics & Reporting 

CRM lets you gain insights into sales performance and let you analyze customer behavior. It also helps with tracking marketing effectiveness by enabling sales managers & executives to use customizable dashboards and check reports. Altogether a decent CRM helps with data-driven decisions & identifying potential areas of improvement within the sales cycle. 

• Integration Capabilities

CRM also offers easy integration with other relevant business tools for easy emailing, organized & seamless accounting and other marketing tools. With a robust CRM, you can build the perfectly unified ecosystem reducing the occurrence of data silos and improving the overall sales efficiency. 

• Security & Compliance 

CRM can also offer maximum protection of customer data. A good CRM software has robust security features and ensures maximum compliance when it comes to managing regulations. This way, you can build trust with customers, yet at the same time, safeguard your business from potential legal issues. 

• User-friendly Interface 

CRM makes it easier for sales experts to capitalize on an intuitive and user-friendly design, one that reduces the learning curve and eventually increases user adoption. This way, it leads to better utilization of the platform and maximizes lead nurturing & bringing exposure. 

How to Create a CRM? 

Here are the seven essential steps you need to follow to create your next-gen CRM solution. 

Stage #1 – Preoperational Stage

In the first phase, you can lay the groundwork of your CRM project. You can start by clearly defining the goals and objectives. You can answer a few important questions to begin with: What do you want to achieve with your CRM? What is the purpose behind launching your CRM? Do you want to improve customer relationships, or do you simply want to streamline your existing sales process? During the preoperational stage, you sit with the business analysts and other key stakeholders of your company to check whether the CRM software you wish to design fulfills your goal and objective.

Stage #2 – Choose a Development Partner

To ensure the success of your CRM project, you need to choose the right CRM development partner. You can start by simply checking potential partners who have credible experience in the past working in CRM-related developments. Explore their portfolios and check out client testimonials for positive reviews. You can also read their previous case studies of successful implementations, which will provide you with enough insight into assessing their capabilities and finding the technical soundness within their team, ultimately choosing them as your desired partner.

Stage #3 – Select Your CRM Features

Another core aspect of using a CRM is to plan which features will work best within your proposed system. You can start by identifying the core features to make your CRM stand out. Start with something simple such as a feature for contact management, a feature for sales automation, and one for marketing automation. You can also add customer service tools to ensure the best implementation is observed. Moreover, you can also find unique features that are specific to your business needs, such as advanced analytics and industry-specific functionalities. Just prioritize the features that complement your business in the best possible manner.

Stage #4 – Cost Calculations

When it comes to CRM implementation, you need to perform the necessary cost calculations to ensure your CRM is deployed in a budget-friendly manner. This step ensures that you can financially plan out your implementation beforehand. After all, you don’t want to end up in a half-baked project where you find yourself struggling with finances. You need a solution that is well-rounded and budget-friendly before jumping into development, testing, and deployment. Consider important costs such as maintenance, updates, and support. When investing in a CRM, make sure you don’t forget any hidden expenses like training, data migration, and integration.

Stage #5 – Designing UI/UX

When designing a user interface for your CRM software solution, you need to make sure yours has an intuitive and user-friendly solution—one that makes your CRM successful. You can start by performing research and understanding the needs and preferences of users. You can also create wireframes and prototypes to visualize the layout and set the flow of the CRM. After conducting usability testing with a small group of users and collecting relevant feedback and making necessary adjustments, you get a well-designed interface that increases user adoption and receives customer satisfaction. Just as much as your CRM tool’s efficacy is important, so is the fact that it runs smoothly. Make sure you create a solution that appeals to the masses.

Stage #6 – Testing & Quality Assurance

To make sure your CRM is well-streamlined and functions properly, you can run the necessary testing and quality assurance checks. You can also conduct functional testing to verify if features are all effectively working or not. Make sure that you evaluate your CRM’s performance and conduct security testing to check and fix all the vulnerabilities. In the end, just make sure you thoroughly perform user acceptance testing (UAT) to ensure your end-users have a well-rounded experience meeting customer needs and expectations. When you follow a comprehensive testing approach, it will ensure you have finally built a high-quality product.

Stage #7 – Launch & Support

Last but not least, the final stage of building a robust CRM is the perfect launch. You can also provide ongoing support ensuring a smoother transition from the old system to a new one. Lastly, provide comprehensive training to all the users and make sure they are well-versed in addressing any issues professionally, if they ever come across one.

Challenges Associated with Developing a CRM 

They Are Not Easy to Implement When it comes to CRM, you want to implement a solution that meets your business requirements. Now, this particular process can be time-consuming and may undergo multiple iterations for perfect implementation. This can pose a challenge and may become difficult for employees who are resistant to change. When you have employees who are accustomed to existing systems, it can pose a significant barrier to successful implementation and lead to roadblocks. Partial Adoption of the Tool You can invest your best to train and onboard users, but some employees often resist when it comes to using the new system. They might have an age-old mindset of using tools with which they are most familiar. It’s not their problem; they are just too fine-tuned to work through proven processes. They believe it leads to inconsistent data entry and usage, which overall undermines the CRM’s effectiveness. Therefore, companies often end up with partial adoption, which can become a concern in the later stages. Manually Entering Data in CRM Software With the rapid advancements in automation, we are seeing many CRM systems that still heavily rely on manually entering data. This process can often take a significant amount of time and can become a hindrance in quickly uploading customer information, tracking interactions, and logging sales activities.  Such mundane tasks often require automated setups to avoid inaccurate or incomplete data handling or data management. Manual data entry can also save time for more strategic tasks, such as developing better strategies for customer acquisition and engagement.  If your current CRM still relies heavily on manual data entry, it’s time to rethink your strategy.  CoderCRM streamlines Salesforce CRM implementation by automating routine tasks like data capture, contact syncing, and activity tracking—eliminating the grunt work that drags teams down. With CoderCRM, your reps spend less time logging and more time closing, all while reducing costly human errors that hurt your bottom line.

How Much Does it Cost to Build a CRM Software? 

The cost of putting together CRM software depends on multiple factors. Here’s a complete breakdown of the potential costs involved in creating robust CRM software. In-House Development Team Costs First things first, no CRM software will be accomplished without a front-end and back-end team working on the development side of things. Assess the salaries and find out how much each of the resources is going to cost, including the costs associated with development, designing, project management, and QA testing. You will need to build up a team of developers, designers, project managers, and QA testers to bring your CRM to fruition. At the same time, you may want to invest in development tools, software licenses, and other resources as well. A quick estimate of all of these costs will require you to put together a Work Breakdown Structure (WBS) and Cost Breakdown Structure (CBS). The CBS will require a complete assessment of financial aspects, which will altogether focus on what elements or tasks will require what cost. Hiring Development Agency Hiring a web developer or a team of required individuals can often lead to hiring full-time experts, which further instigates that you will be required to pay their taxes through the IRS. You can change that by simply onboarding a development agency such as Branex, who will offer you the same services and a similar team starting as low as $40,000. If your team requires ongoing maintenance and frequent updates, it will add up to the overall cost, leading to further expenditures. Features & Complexity The cost of implementation will also depend on the type of features and the complexity of the overall project. For example, a simple CRM may need basic features such as contact management, task tracking, and reporting, and implementing them will only require a budget of $20,000 to $40,000. However, if you’re choosing a more advanced CRM with automated workflows and high-end integration with systems, you need a solution that will cost around $100,000 to $400,000 or even more. Based on your particular requirements, the cost can vary between the suggested numbers; it can go on the lower side as well as the higher side. Tech Stack Another aspect that you need to pay attention to is the tech stack that you will be utilizing in building the CRM solution. For example, if you’re using a JavaScript stack (MEAN/MERN), it is popular for its full-stack capabilities and large community support. On the other hand, the complexity of the tech stack that you’re using can eventually drive up costs, typically ranging from $50,000 to $150,000 additionally. Moreover, the Python stack (Django/Flask) can offer robust security and scalability. It’s a more suitable tech stack that can eventually lower the cost, leading to a range of $30,000 to $120,000, but may need additional configuration for very large applications. Similarly, if you’re going for the .NET stack, this stack is quite popular for enterprise support, and the cost of its implementation can range from $60,000 to $200,000 based on licensing and the need for specialized expertise. Based on what you choose, you can select a tech stack that’s worth your while and can provide you with an optimum solution. Low-Code, No-Code Development (Optional) Today, the market is expansively innovative, and we are now seeing newer entrants even in the coding world. There are multiple platforms marketed as low-code or no-code solutions. While there are pros to a low-code/no-code platform, there are a set number of cons too. One leading benefit of low-code platforms is how they offer faster development times and lower initial costs, typically running around $10,000 and going as much as up to $50,000. The pre-built components of a no-code to low-code platform require less coding expertise.

Final Thoughts 

Despite the rise of intelligent automation, many CRM systems still depend on manual data entry—an outdated practice that's doing more harm than good.  Sales reps and support teams often spend hours logging calls, updating contact records, and tracking customer interactions.  Not only does this slow down workflows, but it also increases the risk of human error—misspelled names, forgotten updates, or duplicate records can throw off your entire customer strategy. But the real pain? It drains productivity and morale.  Your teams didn’t sign up to be data clerks—they’re here to build relationships, close deals, and deliver service. Every minute spent on repetitive admin work is a minute stolen from high-value, customer-facing tasks. Over time, this inefficiency adds up, leading to lost leads, poor customer follow-ups, and ultimately, revenue leakage. If your CRM still forces your team to do the grunt work, it's not empowering them—it's holding them back.  The future of CRM lies in intelligent automation: systems that auto-capture data from emails, calls, and forms, leaving your teams free to do what they do best—connect with customers and drive business growth.

You recently came across a store and considered purchasing a bunch of Adidas or Nike shoes. The moment you walk in, the store feels heavily inviting to you. It appears the store was all geared up to attract, convince, and convert you. Isn’t that the standard terminology all of our digital marketing enthusiasts often use to communicate value to each other and customers? Speaking of digital, what if you could replicate the same experience online? This is only possible if you invest in a digital front, probably a website powered by WordPress.  WordPress isn’t easy, they said! Well, nah, I believe there’s an entirely different side to the story. In reality, WordPress is one of the easiest platforms on which to build your digital presence, especially when partnered with a digital product development agency that understands how to make the most of it. Curious, aren’t we? In this article, we will find out everything we know about WordPress.  From choosing the right platform to installing and configuring the WordPress website, let’s learn everything we know about WordPress and how it can give you a thriving digital presence. 

How Do You Build a Custom Website Using WordPress? 

Step # 1 - Choosing the Right Platform 

Building a website requires choosing the right platform. And WordPress tops the list by engaging almost 60% of the entire web space.  It’s easy-to-use and highly customizable. You can choose from many themes and install valuable plugins to make it work. So, before proceeding with designing your website, you need to come up with a goal. What do you think is the purpose of your website? Why do you need an online store, or will a website simply present what your company is about, and is it only a simple blog or portfolio?  When you decide on your goal behind setting up your website, choosing the best theme and configuring its presence with the right plugins becomes easy. Although you can invest in building a website from scratch using languages such as HTML & CSS, you must improve your coding skills. By far, the easiest way is to invest in a drag-and-drop builder such as an Elementor running on a CMS like WordPress. Platforms like WordPress can become more flexible & let you fully customize.  Also Read: Top 8 CMS Platforms For Your Website Development

Do You Have a Technical Team Backing You? 

With WordPress, it’s important to understand how much technical knowledge you hold. There are plenty of drag-and-drop editors and pre-designed templates where your technical knowledge doesn’t matter much altogether. You can have a professional-looking website without having any prior knowledge of coding. All you need is some base-level understanding of WordPress and voila! Some of the most useful website builders available are none other than SeedProd, Thrive Architect, Beaver Builder, Divi, Elementor, Visual Composer, and Themify Builder. Apart from WordPress, there are brands such as Wix, Duda, and Web.com, which are often limited in functions. But when it comes to WordPress, there’s plenty of room for customization, and you can build the store to your preference.

Step # 2 - Buy Domain & Hosting 

If you want to start a website, two essential things must be addressed. Choosing the Right Domain Name - it’s what you will name your website.  Your domain name will appear as your site’s address, like www.yourwebsite.com. Therefore, when you choose your domain name, you can choose one with which your brand can perfectly resonate.  Choosing the Best Web Hosting - to run a website, you need to host it on a server.  Your server is the space where you will be setting up your website instance. There are plenty of website hosting services available, and we recommend you choose the one that satisfies your budget. 

How to Get Your Custom Domain Name? 

To get your custom domain name, visit a website like GoDaddy.com or NameCheap.com.  Search for your desired domain name and check its availability.  If the domain name is available, then go ahead and make a purchase.  Since the Internet space has become overly crowded and millions of websites launch almost every day, there’s a significant chance you won’t find any common names for custom domains. Either you will have to make a deal with an existing vendor, or you can test out different variations.  For example, if www.mywebsite.com is not available, you can always check for other variations, such as www.mywebsiteisonline.com, www.mywebsiteishere.com, or www.mywebsitelaunch.com. 

How to Choose a Website Hosting Provider? 

An essential step in setting up a WordPress website is to find an exemplary hosting service. Hosting servers often come with their pre-designed plan options to deliver an optimized experience.  HostNoc is a decent hosting service with various server types for hosting websites on WordPress. The plans usually include flexible rates and a pre-installed WordPress presence.  If you're just starting and unsure which hosting option to choose, shared hosting is a great choice. It’s affordable, easy to manage, and ideal for beginners. Other options, such as VPS, dedicated servers, and eCommerce hosting, provide advanced features, but if it's your first time, consider hosting plans with personalized features like product management, security, and payment integrations—especially if you're working with a WordPress website development company​ to build a scalable website.

Step # 3 - Install CMS on Your Desired Host 

Once you have successfully set up your hosting and domain, your next task will be to install WordPress on your system. Many hosting providers simplify the process by introducing built-in tools that allow them to install WordPress in just a handful of clicks - no technical knowledge is required.  Here’s a step-by-step process on how a user can install WordPress. 

• Log into Your Hosting Account - Start with your control panel, such as the cPanel, and use the login info your host sent when you signed up. 
• Find the Installer - Search for a tool called Softaculous Apps Installer (or something similar). You will find a list of several content management systems. 
• Install the WordPress Software - Click on WordPress, add the desired details about your website, & simply hit the install button. 

And there you have it, WordPress is now automatically installed; you’re only just a few steps away from running your website live. 

Step # 4 - Choose Your WordPress Theme

The theme you choose sets the foundation in stone for your WordPress website.  The platform has multiple themes; there are thousands of WordPress themes. Some of these themes are free, while the others are premium options. Based on your specific budget, you need to find & purchase a theme which comes with all the essential features and customizability options.  Themes are flexible!  WordPress themes are reliable, and you can change them whenever you want without losing content. You can simply add or remove posts or pages without making any such customization. 

How to Install a Free WordPress Theme? 

To set up a WordPress theme, you need to gain access to the WordPress admin dashboard.  You can start by going to Appearance > Themes. Now, click on “Add New”  You will come across a complete directory of WordPress themes. Use the search bar to find the theme that complements your business. As soon as you decide on the theme you wish to install, now hover over it and click Install. Click Activate and apply the theme to your WordPress website.  Customize your WordPress theme to suit your preferences.  If you’re going for a premium option, then you will first have to make a purchase and then complete the necessary steps. Premium themes have higher quality, better performance & ongoing support. 

Step # 5 - Install Plugins 

A WordPress website only works flawlessly when it adds more functionality.  There are plenty of things you need to do on a website, such as perform SEO, create contact forms, add social sharing buttons, and more. The easiest way to get it done is by adding a WordPress plugin.  WordPress has a relatively extensive library of mostly free and premium plugins. Browse from the collection of plugins.   Some of the popular plugins to consider include: 

• WPForms: A super simple tool for creating contact forms. 
• Yoast SEO: Perfect for boosting WordPress site’s visibility on search engines. 
• WooCommerce: Great for turning your WordPress website into an online store. 
• MonsterInsights: Get Google Analytics insights to track how your website performs. 

How to Install WordPress Plugins? 

If you want to install a WordPress plugin, you simply need to navigate to the WordPress dashboard.  Go to Plugins > Add New. Search for the plugin you wish to add to your WordPress website and install it. Once the plugin is installed, simply Activate it. WordPress makes it super easy to supercharge your WordPress site with extra features. When it comes to WordPress, you don’t have to invest in any coding practice. 

Step # 6 - Customize Your WordPress Website 

For now, we believe you’ve already found a suitable domain name and hosting. You may have also picked a website theme and performed adequate customization for your site.  Now, there are certain pages that you need to add to your website to ensure it has a proper structure.  A few must-have pages on your website include: 

• Homepage - Your homepage is the first impression. 
• Service Pages -  Your site needs service pages to sell different services. 
• Contact Us - You let people know how they can reach you. 
• About Page - Your site shares your story or talks about your business. 
• Blog Page - To keep your website running, you want to plan and publish content. 

How to Add Pages to Your Site? 

You can use any page builder, such as Elementor or Beaver Builder. Once you’re happy with your website design, go to the dashboard and navigate to Pages. Click “Add New.”  You can edit the website page in the future to change text, add images, or add any other media.

Step # 7 - Add Blog to Your WordPress Website

You will also want to add a blog to your WordPress website. You can start simply by adding a regular page. Here are some of the steps that you need to take:  Start by visiting the dashboard. Go to Posts > Add New.  Write the blog post that you wish to write. Add a catchy title, write content, and add images. Add whatever elements you wish to include. Happy with what you’ve written?  Now, it’s time to publish. Hit the “Publish” button & your post goes live. 

All Set - Your WordPress Website is Ready to Launch

Once you've launched the essential pages and customized your theme, your website is well on its way to going live. But the journey doesn’t stop there! Keep experimenting with different options and refining your design as your WordPress site evolves. When you're satisfied with its looks and functions, it's time for the exciting moment—your official launch. If you've followed all the steps, your site is already live. Simply type your URL into a browser, and just like that—you're online! Take the next step—promote your website, optimize for SEO, and start engaging with your audience. Need help to grow your site? Explore all our resources for expert tips and strategies.  

Raising search rankings for businesses, brands, and companies via proper SEO techniques in Google requires more than just basic knowledge. This is why delving into advanced SEO methods and techniques helps. It can help one outpace competitors in an instant. Tactical keyword clustering is important. This helps make good use of authority via pillar content made via Google’s E-E-A-T rules (Experience, Expertise, Authoritativeness, and Trust). Then content marketers can harness organized data for rich snippets, conduct deep analysis of competitors, and become fluent in technical SEO audits. Link-building tactics, analyzing content gaps, and optimizing for voice search are also part of advanced SEO techniques that help make good use of user intent and behavioral signals. They will help in the creation of worthwhile SEO techniques, bringing in organic traffic and improving the website’s visibility.

Understanding Advanced SEO Techniques - Key Methods that can Improve Search Rankings on Google

The year 2025 began two months ago. Digital marketers today are now reflecting on Search Engine Optimization (SEO) and the way it can do the following:

• Boost rankings.
• Bring in traffic.
• Amplify a brand’s visibility.
• Ultimately connecting with customers.

AI is reshaping search and Google’s core updates are constantly changing things. Best practices in SEO plus best SEO techniques are changing daily. This has hence made SEO quite challenging. However, there is a notion that the more things change, the more they stay the same. Meaning there are still many opportunities for SEO professionals and digital marketers to improve their SEO services this year.  They can do so by focusing on fundamentals whilst keeping in sight the technological advancements taking place.

1. On-page SEO is Important

When people search for something online, it all starts with a question. Websites providing the best answers and solutions to the questions asked by customers (plus problems faced) are the ones that get rewarded with improved rankings. This is where on-page SEO comes in handy. Optimizing web pages through it helps search engines recognize the value of those web pages and connect them with users who are searching for relevant information, queries, and topics. Off-page SEO is different. It focuses on backlinks and external signals. On-Page Search Engine Optimization is part of advanced SEO techniques. It covers everything from a page’s structure to the page’s content. Titles, headings, internal links, and image labels affect the way search engines interpret and rank a website. Once pages are properly optimized, they become more visible in search engines’ results pages (SERPs). The outcome? They begin attracting more organic traffic. This is where a robust strategy comes in handy. It helps prospective customers find their requirements precisely whilst ensuring search engines can understand the website’s content with ease. The perfect balance between technical improvements and user-friendly content is the key factor separating average websites from top-ranking ones.

2. Reoptimizing Old Content

It is not a surprise that more than 50% of companies are using content marketing. Many of them have content that is a few years old at least. Many are also asking why they should re-optimize old content. Experienced professionals from Branex reveal that old content and underperforming is like a car with a flat tire. It is present but it cannot be used. Conducting a Google position check can reveal that a page that once fell in rankings can be re-optimized. Optimizing content that receives low traffic, low conversions, or lacks another metric (that matters the most) can help the business make the most of that content. They can build on the initial time spent in writing and publishing it, and then they can get it back at the top of the search engine results pages (SERPs).

3. Using an SEO-centered Content Strategy

It is high time that a focus on SEO content be created and developing a strategy for the website should also be in place. An SEO-centered content strategy helps in the development of content that will help businesses attain higher ranking in search engines.  They can begin through the creation of content clusters with bedrock content and supporting topics. Keyword mapping should be implemented to help track and organize all efforts. Blogging is a robust tool for promoting a brand. Content marketers can have professional bloggers in their teams to create high-quality content with a core focus on driving traffic in the right direction and building the brand’s value. Blog posts that are updated timely help with the following:

• Bring visitors on board.
• Encouraging return traffic.
• Helping improve the SERPs and Search Engine Ranking.

4. Giving Voice Search Optimization Due Consideration

Voice search is becoming more popular. Smart speakers such as Amazon’s Alexa and Google Home are now household staples. By 2025, 60% of online searches will be voice-based. This opens a new door for SEO. There is no need to worry about keyword stuffing. Voice search optimization is about conversational language and tone. People will ask questions as if they are talking to a friend. This is what should be done:

• Using long-tail keywords reflective of natural speech.
• Thinking about the way people phrase their questions.
• Adding common phrases used in daily conversation.

A lot of voice searches have local intent. Meaning, people will ask for the nearest dentist or a nearby car dealership. They will avoid national chains but will desire something close. This can be optimized via the following tips:

• Keeping the Google My Business Profile up-to-date.
• Making good use of location-based keywords in content.
• Encouraging customer reviews in creating authority, expertise, and trust.

Staying ahead of the curve in Voice Search Trends is important. The trends evolve constantly and marketers must keep up. They should focus on the following:

• Monitoring changes in voice search technology.
• Adjusting the content tactics as per users’ behavior.
• Experimenting with various formats (especially Q&A sections on the website).

5. Improving Core Web Vitals and Webpage Experience

User Experience (UX) is king in terms of SEO. Google made it clear multiple times that Core Web Vitals are important and they are here to stay. Those who are wondering how to improve core web vitals are in luck! These metrics measure how well the website works in terms of the following factors:

• Loading Speed.
• Interactive Factors.
• Visual Stability.

Those who desire to rank well this year should focus on three key areas. The first one is improving the website page loading times. Here are the factors to check:

• Aiming for the website to load in less than three seconds.
• Using Google PageSpeed Insights to check webpage loading speed and obtain tips on improving it.
• Optimizing images and reducing server response times to improve a website’s speed.

Enhancing user experience (UX) on mobile is equally important. It can be done through the following methods:

• Ensuring the website is mobile friendly, as more than 60% of online traffic comes from mobile devices.
• Testing the website on numerous devices to ensure the website fits each device perfectly.
• Simplifying navigation to make it easy for users to find what they need.

Visual stability of websites is also necessary. Here are some tips on ensuring it:

• Avoid using confusing layout shifts.
• Using fixed dimensions for both images and videos. They keep the layout stable.
• Checking the site regularly for elements causing shifts. If found, they should be fixed

It should be understood that a smooth user experience (UX) keeps visitors happy and improves the website’s ranking.

6. Advanced Keyword Glossary Helps in Keyword Planning

Most keyword glossaries often are ignored because they lack utility. However, a properly designed keyword glossary is invaluable in content planning. Incorporating advanced data can help identify terms that bring in qualified traffic instead of zero-click placements. The data that helps are

• Competitor rankings.
• Funnel stages.
• Search intent.

52% of Google Searches are informational Searches. AI features answering queries without visits. It is hence key to focus on keywords offering real prospects of qualified traffic. Also Read: How To Use Google’s AI Overviews For Search

7. Bringing into the Spotlight the Most Visible Content

Revisiting old content is never a bad thing. Both the audience and search engines value fresh content. But regular content audits are wise. The most visible content should be updated by ensuring the following:

• The brand POV is correct.
• Relevant statistics are added.
• New insights are added.
• The format is improved.
• Updating calls to action (CTAs) with recent assets or relevant further reading material.

8. Checking & Monitoring the Technical Optimization

An optimized website is key to creating a seamless user experience (UX). It also helps the website get improved search engine rankings. Focusing on the following key elements can ensure optimal performance:

• Crawlability of crawlers.
• Website mobile-friendliness.
• Fast loading page speed.
• Schema markup should be implemented.

9. Prioritizing E-E-A-T

Although Google is now facing competition, prioritizing its E-E-A-T principles is necessary:

• Experience
• Expertise
• Authority
• Trust

Content Marketers and digital marketing teams should highlight human authorship and experience in their content. They can tackle challenges, add author bylines, and double-check the content in line with the principles. E-E-A-T audits are needed to help assess content performance. 

10. Developing an Internal Linking Process

Internal linking should be done smartly. Crawlers are like robot vacuum cleaners. When they roam a site, and index the pages; it clears the floors. It requires internal links as search engine crawlers won’t work. A lack of internal links means the website won’t be in search engine results. Consequently, it won’t earn clicks, online organic traffic, sales, leads, and revenue. This leaves SEO in a lurch. Developing a proper internal linking strategy for websites helps in:

• Showing the relation between pages.
• Passing the links from high-authority pages (homepage) to lower-authority pages.
• Demonstrating the value of older or newer pages.
• Improving page rankings.

Over to You

In 2025 and beyond, these advanced SEO techniques will not only be proven to be worth their money but also worth implementing. They will certainly help websites get improved search engine rankings on most search engines, especially Google.

Everyone knows where digitalization is going. It is going in the right direction and taking over more businesses worldwide as we speak. Numerous leading publications indicate that the global digital transformation market will grow to around USD 1,009.8 billion by 2025. Though the market does seem to be oversaturated, users still desire to see innovative products. Companies must develop their platform if they also think of starting businesses online. They should make it as functional and user-friendly as possible. Hence, they should also check the tips to make a user-friendly mobile application from ground zero.

What is a User-friendly Mobile Application?

Those who want to create a successful business must first have a good look at both recognition and reputation. They should achieve and take care of the former, and improve the latter among a wider audience.  Marketing helps advertise a business. If the business has an app/software, it will help them sell and interact with buyers at any time of the day. It is true that people pick up and check their phones on average around 2600 times a day. This is why a mobile application comes in quite handy. They are a viable solution for not just existing companies but for startups too. Creating an app is a complicated task. It requires a lot of preparation, perseverance, and development.

1. What does the creation of user-friendly mobile apps entail?

The creation of user-friendly applications and software is a unique combination of market analysis, market research, observing current trends, determining users’ issues, and other factors. Any digital product development company would do this with proper diligence and care.  Hence any detail present in the user interface can either prompt a user to take the needed action or push the user away.  This is the very reason most entrepreneurs hire entire tech teams comprising the following roles:

• Business Analysts.

• User Interface (UI), User Experience (UX), and Software Designers.

• App and Software Developers.

• Quality Assurance (QA) professionals.

Moreover, the support of various specialists from various areas can help contribute to the completion of the analysis of various factors. That can help in the creation of a furthering strategy where the app’s release can become a reality on a promising footing.

2. Is in-house app development gaining momentum?

Helpful app development platforms and software programs are present. They are able to do a lot of work. This is why a lot of small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) are now developing mobile apps through in-house teams. This trend has made it easy for both startups and entrepreneurs to make their apps without the need to learn extensive coding. As a consequence, more companies are hence embracing mobile application development for either customer use, internal purposes, or both. Though app development can initially be a daunting and challenging task, it can still be quite a rewarding experience.

Factors to Identify Before Developing a Mobile App

Developing a mobile application can sound quite straightforward but planning a tactical digital solution is complex. There are various factors associated with the process and they should be considered before any company endeavors to embark on developing such an app:

1. Defining and Understanding the target audience

A good understanding of the target audience and persona is a must. Understanding the target users' objectives, behaviors, preferences, and platforms and devices they use is helpful. This is where the app’s marketing can begin. The App should be customized as per the audience’s needs to help the audience enjoy the app. This is where the app development company also considers the kind of app that can serve users in the best possible way. Regardless of whether it is a native app, a hybrid one, or a web app; product discovery and market research helps a lot. This is where developing detailed user personas and carrying out market research work quite well. This helps identify the kind of app the audience needs. This tactic also helps companies create products that resonate well with their intended audiences and users. The app will certainly provide them with a top-notch user experience (UX) on numerous devices and screen sizes.

2. Researching competitors and competition

Conducting research helps ensure the idea’s readiness in the market. No company wants to end up making the same app as the competition or an app with almost 60% of the features same as that of others. App cloning can at times result in lawsuits and hefty penalties. No company wants to make their efforts redundant.  They should also analyze Apple’s App Store, and Google’s Play Store to understand the landscape and the competition. App development companies must also ensure that their app’s strategy is unique to them, their company, and their employees too. It should not be copied from others.  Companies developing apps specific to them should check out the competition. This can help them understand how their app will perform against others. They should examine the following factors to find areas needing improvement:

• App’s functionality.

• User Interface (UI) Design.

• Users’ Reviews.

This is where the usage of App Store Optimization (ASO) research tools comes in handy. They help in analyzing the following to help identify gaps in the market for the app to be made:

• Competitor Rankings.

• Functionality.

• User Reviews.

Not only would this help with the app and inform the app’s idea but also would help how competitors use app descriptions, keywords, and screenshots to attract users.

3. Choosing the operating system

Two primary operating systems exist in the market namely: Android and iOS. For either of the two, companies should ask themselves if they want to make an app for either of those two operating systems. Or do they want to develop a native app? Decisions regarding software compatibility can directly affect an app’s functionality and the overall performance of an app. Professionals providing mobile application development services in the Dallas metro area explain that a cross-platform framework is an easy-to-set-up app for sustained success. Why? Because more users can access it. A cross-platform app is a hybrid app that works on both Android and iOS. Those who are unable to decide should review their app’s development objective and audience’s preferences. Here are some options to consider:

• Those who want to work on developing Android apps can use either Java or Kotlin with Android App Studio.
• Working on developing iOS apps requires the use of either Objective-C or Swift programming languages with an Xcode development environment on Mac PCs or Macbooks. 
• Working on cross-platform app development is also lucrative. It requires the usage of frameworks like Flutter or React Native for creating apps on both platforms.

4. Incubating the app’s idea

Taking the actionable steps of app development can be put on hold. Companies must consider whether or not their app can solve an existing problem. If it can, they should think about how it can help them.  But if their app is specific to their company, they must consider how the digital solution tactic can help the company achieve its objectives. Pausing to reflect at this stage enables companies to think about their app futures through a road map. They can also prioritize priorities for it too ensuring they and their team agree on the topmost objectives.

5. Planning the app’s design and security

The app’s design is the key to its success. It must have a user-friendly interface. Users will be inclined to download it provided that it is really a user-friendly app. A wireframing mockup tool (Figma or Sketch) can help visualize the app’s interface and flow. Best practices for mobile application design should be followed. Various screen sizes and devices should be considered when developing the app. Moreover, push notifications and social media integrations are features that should also be thought of early in the process.

Tips For Creating a User-friendly Mobile Application

Now that you have understood what should be considered before making an app and what is considered as necessary prerequisites, it is now time to explore the steps required to create a user-friendly mobile application in the best possible steps:

1. Making the app a useful one

The mobile application in development should be helpful to users, first and foremost. It should be helpful to them in realistic ways, especially in terms of saving their time and money, and hence making their lives easy. One of the best places to start is incorporating the value proposition in the elevator pitch. If the business has addressed an important feature people face then the app can be tested in a focus group having friends and family first then the public and the target audience eventually.

2. Understanding the target users

Understanding users is a must. Developers usually skip due to impatience and lack of time. The result becomes a problem and that is why they take time to understand them. They need to have people involved in testing the app before they go live. The people who will test them should not be involved in the product development process in any way possible.

3. Ensuring onboarding is easy

Users no longer need to register in an app. It is now a thing of the past. This created very high bounce rates. Now companies have decided to remove all barriers and allow users to onboard themselves easily. If the app wants their personal or debit/credit card details, it can do so later on.

4. Using best practices of mobile app development

There are many apps present. Only a handful of them are successful. Hence it is wise to follow the footsteps of the apps that are successful. It doesn’t imply that apps need to copy one another, they should avoid repeating the mistakes of apps that flopped. This is true in terms of app design as the app has to be functional. Then the mobile app development cost can be considered.

5. Avoiding unnecessary redirects

A very good and user-friendly app should have everything a user needs. Meaning they should not have to excessively navigate through the app to solve their issue. Thus linking and directing users to external pages from the app is a very bad habit that should be avoided.

6. Designing Users’ touch points in the app

App developers must consider certain situations when users want to use the app and be ready accordingly. Push notifications are a worthwhile tool from a technical viewpoint. App developers should experiment with them. When these notifications are applied correctly, push notifications can attract people back into the app at the right when they need it the most.

7. Add integrations whenever possible

Integrating payment systems, chatbots, file-sharing options, social media options, and the like requires tools people are familiar with (PayPal, ChatGPT, etc.). App developers can integrate them into the app at a fraction of the cost. This makes it easier for both users and developers alike, especially when the latter works together with top-notch systems people love using.

8. Ensuring both aesthetics and functionality go hand in hand

Both the app’s design and function contribute to a top-notch user experience (UX). Making the product look good counts a lot. It is tested when the app is launched via either the Apple App Store, Google Play Store, or both. Good-looking apps are downloaded more than average-looking ones.

9. Making a safe environment for users

No user wants their data to be compromised. Data privacy is important and is tested when the apps are launched via app stores.

10. Don’t stop listening to users in making the app grow

The advancement of technology is exponential. New operating systems make new possibilities for mobile apps to avert past errors. Screen sizes of smartphones change constantly and they require adjusting the product’s layout. User behavior changes too. What worked well yesterday may annoy users tomorrow.

Over to You

Making a user-friendly mobile application is indeed fun. It however still requires diligent and accurate research to be conducted to ensure the app is user-friendly and also, unique and free of features competing apps have. Apps need to be original, authentic, pleasant, and functional at the same time. This is how they can also be user-friendly whilst maintaining their uniqueness.

In recent years, AR (Augmented Reality) and VR (Virtual Reality) have evolved beyond niche technologies into powerful tools poised to transform how we interact with digital content. As we approach 2025, these innovations are set to redefine app and website development, offering immersive, interactive experiences that bridge the gap between the physical and digital worlds. To explore the full potential of AR and VR, we reached out to 16 thought leaders who shared their insights on how these technologies will revolutionize industries like e-commerce, healthcare, education, and beyond. After reviewing their perspectives, we’ve shortlisted the most compelling predictions and actionable ideas on what’s next for AR and VR.

Here is what 9 thought leaders have to say.

AR Will Empower Remote Collaborations

I see AR as a game-changer for remote collaboration, transforming how teams work across distances. While traditional video calls have bridged communication gaps, they often fall short when it comes to complex tasks like product design or technical reviews. AR can fill this void by enabling teams to manipulate 3D models, conduct virtual walkthroughs, and solve real-life problems within a shared digital space. In my experience, AR has the potential to revolutionize product development. Engineers in different locations can view and interact with the same 3D prototype, making real-time adjustments without needing to be physically present. This not only speeds up decision-making but also cuts down on project costs. Moreover, AR-driven virtual environments offer exciting possibilities for advanced employee training, providing immersive, hands-on experiences without logistical constraints. As AR technology continues to improve and become more accessible, I believe businesses across industries will adopt it to enhance collaboration and drive innovation. Raheel Najmi, CEO, Branex

AR Will Revolutionize Small Business Showcases

As a website development agency owner working with local GTA businesses, I see AR and VR transforming digital experiences in practical, revenue-driving ways. AR will revolutionize how small businesses showcase products and services online. Picture a potential home renovation client being able to visualize different kitchen designs in their actual space through their phone, or a restaurant patron previewing menu items in 3D before ordering. These aren't just cool features - they're conversion tools that help businesses close more sales. For VR, we're focusing on creating virtual showrooms and immersive product demonstrations. One of our furniture retail clients saw a 25% increase in high-ticket purchases after implementing a basic VR catalog that let customers explore pieces from every angle. The key is making these technologies accessible and profitable for local businesses. While enterprise companies might build complex VR worlds, we're developing streamlined solutions that deliver clear ROI for smaller operations. The businesses that embrace these tools strategically in 2025 will have a major advantage in converting online visitors into paying customers. Let me know if you'd like to explore how AR/VR could boost your digital presence. Harmanjit Singh, Founder and CEO, Origin Web Studios

WebAR Will Enhance Accessibility and Adoption

As we look ahead to 2025, AR and VR are set to revolutionize app and website development in exciting ways. We're moving beyond gimmicks to create truly immersive and useful experiences. One of the biggest shifts I see coming is the rise of WebAR. This technology allows users to access AR experiences directly through their web browsers, without needing to download separate apps. It's a game-changer for accessibility and adoption. Imagine being able to virtually try on clothes or visualize furniture in your home with just a few taps on a website. The integration of AI with AR and VR is another trend that fascinates me. AI will enhance these experiences by improving rendering, tracking, and object recognition. This opens up possibilities for more responsive and personalized AR/VR interactions. I'm particularly excited about how AR and VR will transform e-commerce. By 2025, I believe we'll see widespread adoption of virtual try-ons and 3D product visualizations. As a consumer, I recently used an AR feature to see how a couch would look in my living room before buying it online. It was incredibly helpful and made me feel more confident in my purchase. AR and VR are bridging the gap between digital and physical experiences, creating a new paradigm for how we interact with products and services online. The advent of 5G will also play a vital role in advancing AR and VR capabilities. With faster data speeds and lower latency, we'll be able to create more seamless and responsive experiences, especially for mobile users. However, it's important to note that these technologies will require developers to think differently about user experience and interface design. Creating intuitive interactions in 3D space presents unique challenges and opportunities. As we embrace these technologies, we must also consider the ethical implications and ensure we're creating value for users, not just implementing AR and VR for the sake of novelty. The future of app and website development is undoubtedly exciting, and I'm eager to see how these technologies will shape our digital experiences in the coming years. Ayush Trivedi, CEO, Cyber Chief

Mobile AR Features Drive Higher Conversion Rates

As a founder of a tech company, I've rolled out AR/VR solutions for our retail clients, and I'm noticing a big change in how we create digital experiences. In the last three months, we added virtual try-ons to a client's furniture mobile app. The outcome was impressive. We saw 42% higher conversion rates and a 25% drop in returns. The secret wasn't just the tech—it solved a real customer problem of picturing products in their home. As an experienced tech professional, I would recommend businesses begin with mobile AR features before jumping into full VR. Remember, AR isn't just an extra anymore—it's becoming the new mobile-first. Sharat Potharaju, Co-founder & CEO, Uniqode

AR Will Increase Confidence in Online Shopping

AR and VR were the real market disruptors before AI and while they may not be in the limelight anymore, I can tell you they will be integral to website development. By 2025, the AR market is expected to grow beyond $50 billion, showing just how quickly these technologies are being adopted. Travel platforms are already using AR to offer virtual tours of hotels and destinations. It is more than a preview; it helps people feel connected to their choices, often leading to higher booking rates because of that sense of confidence. Everyone knows how tricky online shopping can be when trying to decide if something will work in real life. AR is taking that guesswork out of the equation. Apps now let you place furniture or decor virtually in your space. You can see how a couch fits in your living room or whether a lamp matches your style, all before you buy it. This approach feels more personal and makes shopping easier, giving people a better reason to trust what they see online. And when it comes to education, VR is doing something incredible. Studies show learners retain information much better with immersive experiences. Schools and platforms are starting to use VR to take students on virtual journeys, like exploring ancient cities or diving into coral reefs. It turns lessons into adventures, leaving a lasting impression in a way textbooks never could. Alan Carr, Director, Webpop Design

AR/VR Will Redefine Interaction Beyond Screens

I see AR and VR as more than flashy tech—they're reshaping how we approach app and website development by challenging a core assumption: screens are the ultimate interface. I believe by 2025, AR and VR will redefine interaction itself, breaking free from traditional layouts and buttons. One concept I've been experimenting with is designing for spatial navigation instead of page-based navigation. Imagine an app where users "walk" through a virtual showroom to explore products instead of clicking through a menu. A flat-screen doesn't constrain the layout but unfolds in a 3D environment, offering an immersive experience that feels intuitive and personal. This shift also changes the way we think about user feedback loops. In VR, micro-movements—like a user's gaze or hesitation before interacting—become data points for refining the experience. In one prototype we created for a virtual art gallery, we used gaze tracking to highlight artwork descriptions automatically, removing the need for clunky menus. Engagement doubled compared to the static website version. The truth is that AR and VR will mimic physical spaces and create new ways to interact that feel more human. By 2025, apps and websites will not just be viewed but experienced. That's the transformation we're gearing up for. Nicholas Robb, Design agency for startups, Design Hero

AR/VR Will Create Intuitive and Engaging Interfaces

As an entrepreneur leading SuperDupr, a digital solutions company, I've seen how technology reshapes business landscapes. I believe AR and VR will play a crucial role in changing app and website development by 2025. At SuperDupr, our focus is on process optimization and innovation, and these technologies will allow developers to create more intuitive and engaging interfaces, providing users with a seamless digital experience. One example from our work is the digital magazine project, "The Unmooring," where user interactivity could be significantly improved through AR, allowing readers to explore multimedia content right off the virtual pages, creating a deeper connection with the material. This aligns with our philosophy of providing customized solutions to achieve operational efficiency and client satisfaction. Additionally, leveraging AR in projects like Goodnight Law could offer interactive legal guides that improve client understanding, providing practical information through visually engaging formats. As these projects show, AR and VR have the potential to innovate across varied sectors, creating opportunities for businesses to reimagine their offerings and user engagement strategies. Justin McKelvey, Founder, SuperDupr

AR/VR Will Reshape E-Commerce and Education

Looking toward 2025, AR and VR are set to reshape app and website development, offering more immersive and interactive user experiences, particularly in gaming, where VR has already begun delivering 360-degree virtual environments. In app and website development, this will extend beyond games. We'll likely see industries like e-commerce and education use VR to offer 'virtual showrooms' or classrooms where users can experience products or lessons in an interactive, fully immersive environment. Furthermore, AR will play a huge part in personalization. Envision using your phone to virtually try on clothes or preview how a sofa fits into your living space. As developers continue to explore these technologies, apps, and websites will transform into engaging, interactive platforms that blend the digital and physical realms effortlessly. As AR and VR evolve, I expect website and app design to shift towards more intuitive and engaging formats. The future is looking immersive, and businesses that adapt early will benefit the most. Marin Cristian-Ovidiu, CEO, Online Games

AR/VR Will Transform Healthcare Training

AR and VR have become more mainstream in recent years. I think these technologies will transform how users interact with digital platforms in 2025. The impact will be immense, particularly in the healthcare industry, where immersive experiences drive better outcomes. I think we can push beyond the conventional boundaries of two-dimensional screens and static interfaces. These technologies will improve the user experience by simplifying complex information. Through visual and interactive elements, it will make apps and websites easier to navigate. As a result of technological evolution, AR apps will display 3D images and models in the real world. Similarly, VR applications will let users enter a virtual environment where they can interact and engage with the content. For example, in the healthcare industry, physicians will be able to use VR apps to simulate medical procedures as a part of their training. Although it sounds impressive, it will bring new challenges for the developers. Tech experts will need to focus on performance optimization to prevent lag or glitches. I also anticipate some security and privacy concerns coming up in the immediate future as these technologies collect and display sensitive information. Ensuring that the apps and websites comply with privacy regulations will be essential. Of course, no significant change comes without its challenges. But I'm convinced that the benefits will far outweigh them. Technology professionals who embrace AR and VR technology early on will get a competitive edge as these tools are about to become indispensable. John Russo, VP of Healthcare Technology Solutions, OSP Labs

Conclusion

From boosting conversion rates in retail to transforming healthcare training, AR and VR promise to open up a world of new possibilities in digital experiences. As highlighted by these experts, success in this evolving landscape will require developers to think beyond screens, prioritize spatial design, and focus on creating seamless, intuitive interactions. While challenges like cost and accessibility remain, those who embrace these technologies early will gain a significant competitive advantage. Whether you're a business looking to enhance customer engagement or a developer aiming to push the boundaries of UX design, 2025 is shaping up to be a pivotal year for AR and VR.

Meet Mike, a solopreneur with a vision to introduce sustainable, effective, and durable digital solutions to the world. Driven by a passion for coding and creating products that deliver flawless digital experiences, Mike’s dream is to establish a software development company that stands out. Yet, like many aspiring entrepreneurs, he faces the daily challenges of scaling his business while staying true to his mission. There’s a saying that goes,  “Success doesn’t come from what you do occasionally; it comes from what you do consistently.”  While Mike’s technical skills and dedication are undeniable, he quickly realizes that technical prowess alone won’t be enough. What he needs is a blueprint—a roadmap that will guide him from freelancer to business owner. This journey isn’t unique to Mike; it mirrors the path of many startups. In fact, a 2023 study by Statista shows that nearly 50% of small businesses in the USA fail within the first five years, often due to poor financial planning and lack of market demand. In this article, we’ll explore the reasons for choosing a software development company that understands market demands and planning essentials, as well as the key strategies that can help solopreneurs like Mike build a profitable software development business in the USA. Whether you're an experienced developer or just starting out, this guide provides a clear path to transform your next-gen idea into a sustainable business.

Step # 1: Planning a Revenue Stream 

As the owner of a software development company, you may be able to sell your services or products, but you will still need a reliable revenue stream to cover your operational costs. It includes investing in resources like onboarding developers, purchasing licenses, acquiring technologies, & more. In order to grow your software development company, you'll want to work with multiple clients. To acquire these clients, constant marketing efforts are required. For example, it involves investments such as lead generation, client interactions, meetings, and many other activities that contribute to maturing leads and ultimately delivering a software product. These costs accumulate, and to sustain them, you need a consistent revenue stream that can continuously support your business operations. Moreover, you'll need teams dedicated to performing competitor analysis, market research, gap analysis, and customer demand analysis. These teams will also be responsible for finding trusted developers, and ensuring that they sign non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) to protect sensitive information. When working with large clients, these costs become routine and necessary for generating revenue. Over time, you can reinvest in research and development to increase your product and services, driving future growth. Therefore, to make it all possible, a person should invest in establishing a stable passive income stream. You can always start a business with a subscription-based model, licensing models, recurring software maintenance packages, and more. All these models can help you maintain a consistent cash flow. 

Step # 2: Coming Up with a Business Plan

Your next step should be to come up with a business plan.  The right business plan can set up the foundation of your software development company. It helps you plan future growth and secure enough funding from an investor or a bank.  For software development, these are the prerequisites your business plan must include:  

• Products and Service Portfolio
• Market Need Analysis
• Target Customer Demographics
• Financial Planning and Forecasting
• Growth and Expansion Plans
• Company Leadership and Structure
• Talent Acquisition and Hiring
• Marketing Strategy and Budget
• Core Business Values
• Daily Operations and Workflow

The following plan is just a schematic to guide you towards the intended proceedings.  So you don’t have to worry about whether it’s precise or not, just make sure that you can create a sound business plan around it, following a dot-point strategy with effective marketing techniques. 

Step # 3: Secure Investments for Marketing 

In today’s world, it’s nearly impossible to make your business stand out unless you have a clear strategy. It’s not because the demand is low, but because the competition is high. There’s a good chance that someone else may offer the same service as you, but the key differentiator is how effectively they present their brand. For instance, a local coffee shop might compete with big chains not by matching their prices but by emphasizing artisanal quality, a cozy atmosphere, and locally sourced ingredients.  Whether it’s through recognition or customer psychology, branding can be an invaluable advantage for a business. It’s more than just choosing colors, logos, themes, language, & style. Your brand should reflect your core values. If you're like Mike, who isn’t up for the task, you can always hire a professional agency to save precious time and effort. They have the knowledge & expertise to conduct a thorough analysis and establish a long-lasting brand identity while ensuring your brand values remain intact and your brand name is protected under the USPTO.

Step # 4: Launching Your Website 

A legitimate service-based business is one where you have a well-established digital presence.  To set up your presence, what you need is a working website and a social media account. Let’s say you’re planning to start a software development company and you don’t have enough savings, the best solution is to choose a digital platform such as Wix or Weebly to build your website. These platforms allow you to run ads through Google and Bing platforms and at the same time, perform search engine optimization. However, if you are looking for a custom-made web design which progresses with time and you can make changes on the go, then it’s always best to hire designers and writers.  It’s always best to have your website’s branding well thought out beforehand. Take your time to perform thorough research, check how you can make optimal landing pages, and what steps you need to take to generate leads. As time progresses, you can gain testimonials which build your rapport.  The best way is to start with WordPress and then move on to custom, once the business progresses & scales. If you don’t want to miss out on leads, invest in blogs & hire copywriters. 

Step # 5: Setup Your Business Structure 

It’s always best to have your business registered with the IRS to get an Employer Identification Number. It will help you standardize your software company by setting up its official presence. ‘Company’ is a common term that’s often thrown around and used loosely when individuals talk about business. It establishes your business as an individual and separate legal entity.  There are two business structures that most businesses often follow: 

1. Sole Proprietorship: 

In a sole proprietorship, you establish your business as a sole owner. In this particular business model, since you’re the owner, you do not share any profits, any losses and are not responsible for any liabilities.  Being a sole proprietorship, you can hire employees under your model and receive their Employer Identification Number. Also, you are responsible for paying self-employment tax and income tax on personal income.  As a sole proprietorship, you basically observe your expenses going up continuously and even though you’re making more profits, they are not worth the expense that you have to bear for it. 

2. Partnership: 

On the other hand, if you decide to start a software company in partnership with somebody else, you can register your business under two types of partnership:  A General Partnership can be informal, where all partners file taxes under their name. They can all be held liable & responsible for their investments and the burden doesn’t fall on a sole proprietorship.   A Limited Liability Partnership offers a certain level of personal liability protection to the specific partners. A Limited Partnership comes with passive investors who offer personal liability protection to them.  Depending on what type of partnership you choose, helps you decide how much investment you’re going to put in. Also, bringing more partners means more heads to work together and more strategies to work with. 

Step # 6: Register Your Business for Taxes and Obtain Proper Licensing 

Once you have the Employer Identification Number, your next task will be to get your company registered for taxes before you start running things at your software development company. How much tax you will be expected to pay depends on the type of business structure you are going to opt-in for. To understand the tax breakout, it’s best to check out the IRS web pages and figure out the taxing details so you’re more well-equipped to pay them up.   The three types of taxes (any of which) you can be accountable to pay for are: 

• LLC Taxes 
• Partnership Taxes 
• Sole Proprietor Taxes 

Every business requires a General Business License and a Sales Tax License to operate in the US sector.  When you research your state’s law thoroughly, you come to understand what other permits you are liable for. 

Step # 7: Understanding & Obtaining Software Licensing

It is important that before you jump into a software development business, you should make sure your business operates without falling under any legal risks & your intellectual property rights remain intact.  Once you start a software company, you will most likely use snippets of codes and may also launch open-source codes. If you’re not aware or you do not understand software licensing, your code can be misused.  Therefore, when it comes to software licensing, make sure all the developers understand the following: 

• Unlicensed Code: Code from unlicensed sources is not in the public domain and using it may violate copyright laws.
• Public Domain License: Offers unrestricted use and customization of code, often open-source, allowing for free distribution and modification.
• GNU Lesser General Public License (LGPL): Allows modification and use of open-source code without disclosing proprietary software, as long as it doesn't directly derive from the original code.
• Permissive License: Open-source code that can be reused, modified, and distributed with minimal restrictions, typically requiring retention of copyright information.
• Copyleft License: Users can modify and build upon code, but must release the resulting product under the same license.
• Commercial or Proprietary Licenses: Code that cannot be redistributed or modified, with use governed by an End User License Agreement to protect intellectual property.
• Dual Licensing: Combines open-source and commercial licenses, allowing free use under open-source conditions or requiring a paid license for commercial distribution.

Step # 8: Getting a Business Account, Cards, and Insurance 

Once you have protected yourself from liabilities, it’s time to create a separate business bank account. Always remember, your personal and company account must always remain separate or you may result in losing your personal assets, just in case, if your business unfortunately gets sued. When you have a separate business account representing your software company, it will assist you in tracking and managing cash flows and filing taxes.  It is also advised to start your own Net 30 account early to start building your credit. A Net 30 account is a 30-day trade credit on invoices for business purchases, also known as a Net 30 tradeline or vendor tradeline. Net 30 accounts can be extended based on the Net 30 terms. It helps customers to pay for their purchases timely without having to pay any interest charges. It improves the cash flow and builds a positive business credit history. Business insurance is critical to operate safely.  There are a few insurance that you may want to consider such as General Liability Insurance and Worker’s Compensation Insurance for all your employees. There are also other insurance types such as Errors and Omissions Insurance and Product Liability Insurance which can be valuable too. 

Step # 9: Purchasing Equipment, Resources, and Software

After you start your website, you will require stock photographs and purchase essential software tools. All of these things, such as equipment and resources, will take up a certain investment. Especially if you operate from a physical store or a remote location, you will need to purchase high-quality computers, workplace equipment, server setups, and furniture to start your own software company.  Other additional costs will involve buying software products, source code management systems, and other development tools. Popular tools for source code management include GitHub, GitLab, and Bitbucket. For project management, consider tools like Trello, Asana, or Jira. It’s also best to invest in robust payroll software, such as QuickBooks Payroll or Gusto, which allows you to automate your accounts payable processes and save your precious time.  It’s always worthwhile to invest in collaboration tools and applications, like Slack, Microsoft Teams, or Zoom, to streamline meetings and gain work updates, which will become useful too.

Step # 10: Hiring & Outsourcing 

When you’re starting a software company, you won’t be managing and working on the projects alone. You will need teams to take care of important tasks such as performing daily correspondence with clients, managing in-house resources, performing development tasks, and handling marketing. As your organization grows, you will need more employees to manage tasks and correspondence with clients. You may also have to manage your office space, and as your business grows, you will need to expand. For example, some of the essential people you need to onboard include:

• Customer Service Manager
• UI/UX Designer
• Application Analysts, Product Control, and Testing
• Technical Writer
• Marketing Manager
• Scrum Master
• Quality Assurance
• Business Analysts

Apart from this workforce, you will also need to hire developers if you are not one yourself.  The best thing about operating as a software firm is that you can work from any remote location of your choice. This flexibility saves up administrative expenses, runs remote operations, or even outsources one-time tasks.

Step # 11: Put Together a Marketing Plan 

A software firm functions with a highly specific target audience.  You can’t start a marketing campaign and expect results, spot on. For example, if you’re creating a product that entertains students, your marketing tone and advertisements will be very different from a product that helps optimize workflows for your business. Remember, marketing isn’t just about PPC advertising and SEO marketing, but it goes a long way. It involves a multitude of other strategies which involve social media, branding, digital PR, and many other aspects. You can also have someone to take care of organic and paid outreach.  If you thought starting a software company was easy, then here are a few ways how you can best market your business digitally: 

• Share client success stories on social media to highlight challenges and showcase how your team provided solutions.
• Feature case studies and client testimonials on your website to build credibility.
• Offer free content to engage and educate your audience. 

Concluding Thoughts 

If you’re just starting with a software development company and you want to grow it exponentially, then you need to equip yourself with the best knowledge and a sound plan. You should start with establishing a strong brand presence, setting up a business plan, registering your business with the IRS, investing in a solid team, and equipping yourself with the necessary tools. Make sure to always invest in training your employees regarding your brand’s values, culture, and goals. Educate them regarding what things can cause liability actions and use piracy materials.  Additionally, understanding development costs is crucial as you grow your business. Knowing these costs helps you plan effectively, allocate resources smartly, and price your services competitively. If you’re looking to start your own software business and you’re unsure what to do, Branex can help. We can put together the perfect marketing strategy and build you a service-based business that goes a long way. Need help with your marketing or coming up with a project strategy? Get a consultation today!

For quite some time now, we’ve heard the term “DevOps” in software development. Most people commonly understand that DevOps is all about bringing together people, processes, and technology to enhance collaboration between development and operations teams. In simple terms, DevOps is about setting the goal of delivering software more efficiently. Today, traditional business models just don’t cut it anymore. The days when teams worked in isolated silos, focusing on a narrow set of tasks, are behind us. Now, teams are more diverse, agile, and equipped to deliver relevant solutions. In today’s competitive environment, any organization engaged in software development—at any scale—needs DevOps to stay ahead. This is especially true for digital transformation companies, where rapid innovation and efficient workflows are essential to success. In fact, DevOps professionals have become some of the most in-demand people in the IT world. Thinking about pursuing a career in DevOps? Want to become a DevOps engineer someday? You’re in the right place! In this article, we’ll walk you through a roadmap designed specifically for freshers. If you're just starting, this guide will give you the perfect introduction to all things DevOps.

What is DevOps? 

DevOps is a software development practice that, as we’ve discussed, blends cultural philosophies, people, processes, and technology to enhance collaboration between dedicated software development teams. The main goal for a DevOps team is to deliver software quickly while continuously providing maximum value to customers. In DevOps, teams focus on automating processes that were traditionally handled manually. They leverage a technology stack and advanced DevOps tools to build high-quality and reliable applications. These tools allow engineers to complete tasks—like code deployment or infrastructure provisioning—that would typically require assistance from other team members. This automation boosts team velocity and fosters an optimal working environment.

The Role of DevOps in Modern Software Development

The role of DevOps involves six advanced stages, each playing a vital part in driving business success.

1. Effective Collaboration & Communication

DevOps fosters a culture of shared responsibility by breaking down barriers between development and operations. This creates an environment for better problem-solving and sparks innovation.

2. Improves Software Quality & Reliability

With DevOps, automated testing and continuous feedback loops help catch and resolve issues early in the development process, leading to more reliable and higher-quality software.

3. Optimize Software Scalability and Stability

Using practices like Infrastructure as Code (IaC), DevOps makes infrastructure management easier, which in turn boosts software scalability and business profitability.

4. Accelerates Software Delivery

DevOps embraces core practices that allow for more frequent and dependable releases. Faster deployments help businesses stay agile and respond quickly to market changes.

5. Reduces Overall Costs

One of the advantages of DevOps is the elimination of repetitive tasks, which cuts down on labor costs and reduces unnecessary resource use.

6. Encourages Continuous Learning

With a focus on continuous feedback and experimentation, DevOps helps teams adapt and evolve. This ensures they stay ahead of technological advancements and industry best practices. Plus, the quicker you can resolve issues, the better your chances of avoiding major failures. 

What Qualifications Do You Need To Become a DevOps Engineer? 

They say that when it comes to building strong structures, it all starts with a solid foundation—and the same goes for a career in DevOps engineering. If you're not sure where to begin, the key is first understanding the basics of computer science and how digital systems work. A great starting point would be enrolling in a BE/BTech, BCA, or BSc course in computer science, or IT, or completing a major in CS from a reputable institution. While there are plenty of self-taught developers out there who have dedicated a lot of time to the field, they often lack the same focus and deep technical knowledge as someone who's gone through a structured four-year program. Some key technical subjects you'll need to master over time include:

• Operating Systems
• Data Structures and Algorithms
• Computer Networks
• Distributed Systems (Advanced)

For anyone just starting out in DevOps, getting a basic understanding of these complex topics is crucial, as they will serve as the foundation of your journey. Also Read: Top 10 DevOps Consulting Companies in the USA

What is the DevOps Mindset? 

To kick off a career in DevOps, the first step is developing a DevOps mindset. When it comes to the software development lifecycle, there are a few key things you'll need to master, like collaboration, continuous learning, and seeing the bigger picture. At its heart, a DevOps mindset is about tearing down the barriers between development and operations teams. It’s about shared responsibility — both for those delivering the software and those managing its operations. DevOps serves as the bridge that connects them. With this mindset, a DevOps engineer isn’t just focused on specific tasks—they're thinking system-wide. This approach fosters an agile, responsive environment where performance thrives.

6 Core Pillars of DevOps in Software Development 

There are six core pillars of DevOps in software development.

1. Continuous Integration (CI): 

Continuous Integration is all about bringing code changes within a single central repository.  The process is handled ideally multiple times a day. With every integration, CI is automatically tested to detect errors quickly. The CI approach is relatively simple. The idea is to minimize the code integration problems which are often encountered when developers merge changes into the main branch.  CI usually happens at the end of a release cycle. On the contrary, CI further ensures that a certain developed software is up-to-date.  It is rigorously tested & validated which ultimately reduces the likelihood of major problems which can arise during or after the launch of a software. 

2. Continuous Deployment (CD):

Once the integration is handled, continuous deployment ensures that the software is constantly and automatically implemented with the changes, specifically one after the other.  Sometimes, there are quick code changes which are required on the development side, and if changes are not implemented on time, it can lead to blockages within the production pipeline.  This can eventually lead to bigger problems such as decreased software performance & responsiveness. CD ensures that the software is ready for deployment or delivery at any time of the release. 

3. Infrastructure as a Code (IaC): 

IaC is the process of setting up a computing infrastructure where machine-readable definition files are fed within the system instead of running through physical hardware or any interactive configuration tool.  The objective is to make sure the environment reduces the potential for committing human error.  With IaC developers and operation teams, it becomes easier for businesses to automatically manage, monitor, and provision resources instead of taking the manual route of setting up & configuring resources. 

4. Automation:

Automation in DevOps software development is all about setting up an entire lifecycle.  This usually involves continuous testing, integration, and infrastructure management. With automation, your software developers get reduced manual work, less chance of committing errors, and increased team agility & better performance which eventually contributes to the overall improvement.  On the contrary, automation also helps development teams to better focus on complex tasks, for instance, they are more well-equipped to think critically and be innovative in building better solutions.  For example, with automation, code management becomes a whole lot easier and you ensure that your code contributions do not have loops or degradations whatsoever. Automation also helps escalate the feedback process. 

5. Effective Collaboration & Communication: 

Effective collaboration is essential to build the perfect software solution.  Proper communication is all about breaking silos and creating a culture where developers and operations are staffed correctly. In fact, all development lifecycle stages, whether it’s design or production, require a better understanding of challenges and perspectives, resulting in efficient problem-solving and innovation. There are plenty of tools such as chat applications, project management software tools & collaborative platforms which facilitate team members to connect and share information easily. 

6. Monitoring & Feedback: 

One more essential feature of DevOps is monitoring and feedback which is an essential pillar in software development. Developers mostly require stakeholders to monitor the business performance and application health continuously.  Continuous monitoring brings real-time insights from application performance allowing teams to identify and address problems more quickly.  Along with monitoring, feedback mechanisms in DevOps also play a significant role.  Efficient feedback allows businesses to quickly collect data from different stages of the development process and use them to improve future iterations such as: 

• Code Development Feedback: Early-stage feedback helps refine code quality and prevent issues before deployment.
• Testing Feedback: Continuous testing feedback ensures the identification of bugs and performance issues before they reach production.
• Deployment Feedback: Post-deployment feedback allows for rapid detection of any operational issues impacting user experience.
• User Feedback: Gathering user feedback post-release helps in refining features and improving usability in future versions.
• Performance Monitoring Feedback: Real-time performance data allows for proactive tuning of the application’s speed and reliability.
• Security Feedback: Continuous security feedback identifies vulnerabilities and improves the overall security posture of the application.

Roadmap - The Necessary Steps to Become a DevOps Engineer

Step #1 - Choosing a Programming Language

If you're looking to start a career as a DevOps engineer, the first step is to learn programming languages. It’s essential to grasp the basics, as a DevOps engineer should be skilled in automation, integration, customization, and tackling various complexities. Getting familiar with popular programming languages like Python, R, or GoLang can be incredibly beneficial. As you progress in your career and encounter different projects, you may adapt to new concepts, but you’ll find that the underlying principles are often similar across languages.

Step #2 - You Must Know the Basics of Operating Systems 

Operating systems serve as the backbone of nearly every computing environment. To run software on any hardware, you need to establish a connection between the two.  In DevOps engineering, particularly when managing applications and optimizing infrastructure, it's crucial to become well-versed in operating systems before diving into any specific technology.

• Windows
• Linux
• Ubuntu / Debian
  • RHEL / Derivatives: It is widely used in enterprises and derivatives like CentOS and Fedora offering similar features and compatibility.
  • SUSE Linux: SUSE Linux is favored for the enterprise-grade support it provides.
• Unix
  • FreeBSD: FreeBSD is good with performance 
  • OpenBSD: OpenBSD is good with security
  • NetBSD: NetBSD is good with portability

Step # 3 - Command-Line Interface 

As a DevOps engineer, it's crucial to get comfortable with the basics of the Command Line Interface (CLI).  The CLI is especially important in DevOps because it provides access to advanced features often hidden in graphical user interfaces, giving you more precise control over systems and the best DevOps tools.  It works across different environments and provides a deeper understanding of the systems your development teams are working on.  If you're managing servers through the CLI, here are a few key areas to focus on:

• Scripting
• Editors
• Networking Tools
• Process Monitoring
• Performance Monitoring
• Text Manipulation

Step # 4 - Version Control System & Hosting 

Have you mastered your preferred programming language? The next step in your DevOps journey is to get familiar with Version Control Systems (VCS). VCS and hosting solutions are key for managing code deployments and ensuring smooth collaboration. Version Control Systems track changes in code and let multiple developers work on the same project at the same time without worrying about overwriting each other’s work.  Concepts like branching, merging, and tagging are crucial in DevOps. Popular Tools for Version Control:

• Git: The most widely used VCS for distributed version control. Learn basic commands like commit, push, and pull, along with advanced features like rebasing and conflict resolution.
• GitHub/GitLab/Bitbucket: Platforms that host Git repositories and support collaboration. Get comfortable with pull requests, issue tracking, and code reviews on these platforms.

Understanding cloud hosting platforms like AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud is important for effectively deploying your application. This knowledge gives you an edge in managing DevOps pipelines, integrating VCS with CI/CD tools like Jenkins or Travis CI, and automating testing and deployment.  It ensures your code is always deployable and helps provide faster, more reliable feedback.

Step # 5 - Learning About Cloud Providers 

The world of DevOps is vast and offers plenty of cloud computing options. If you want to run your applications in a well-hosted environment, it’s best to invest in one of the major cloud services.  Some of the top names in cloud computing today are:

• AWS: Amazon Web Services offers a variety of services, like EC2 and S3 for storage, Lambda for serverless options, and EKS for Kubernetes.
• Azure: Microsoft’s Azure provides similar services to AWS, but stands out with Azure DevOps, which includes CI/CD tools, version control, and project management tools.
• GCP (Google Cloud Platform): Google Cloud offers many of the same services as the others, but powered by Google’s technology.

If you’re aiming for a career in DevOps, it's essential to understand the different cloud providers.

Step # 6 - Learning About Containerization - Dockers 

Pursuing a career in DevOps engineering also means you'll need to understand containerization. One of the key tools for this is Docker. Docker helps package apps and download the necessary dependencies on the server to run any application you choose. These days, every cloud-based organization uses Docker to package and deploy applications. As a DevOps engineer, you'll work with Docker by writing simple Dockerfiles and storing the necessary information. A few essential things that you should be aware of, especially when it comes to Docking are: 

• You should know how to run containers
• You are capable of inspecting active containers
• You must be aware of the concepts of Docker Networking
• You should know about Docker Volumes
• You must know how to create Dockerfiles using the Dockerize apps
• You can run multiple containers using Docker-Compose
• You know how to work with Docker Repository

Step #7 - A Basic Know-How of CI/CD Tools

If you’re on your way to becoming a DevOps engineer, it’s essential to get comfortable with CI/CD tools. These tools are vital for automating and streamlining workflows, making testing easier, and ensuring that applications are deployed faster. Here are some key areas to focus on:

• Writing automation scripts for testing and deployment
• Setting up monitoring and feedback cycles
• Learning best practices
• Setting up notifications to channels (like Slack, Discord, etc.)

Tools to Learn:

• GitLab CI
• Jenkins
• GitHub Actions
• CircleCI

Step #8 - Container Orchestration

Containers are crucial because they can scale up or down based on usage, thanks to container orchestration tools.  As a DevOps engineer, you’ll need to create multiple replicas of a container, and popular tools for this include Kubernetes and Docker Swarm.  These open-source platforms help automate, scale, and manage containerized applications.

Step #9 - Networking & Security Protocols

Networking and security are fundamental aspects of effective DevOps practices. Most tasks are handled through servers and advanced production environments. You’ll need to manage and troubleshoot infrastructure, deploy and manage microservices, and handle cloud-based deployments—all while ensuring these environments are secure. Here are a few concepts to learn on your DevOps journey:

• FTP/SFTP
• HTTP/HTTPS
• SSL/TLS
• DNS
• SSH
• Various protocols

As a DevOps engineer, building a strong foundation in networking and implementing the right security measures is just as critical as mastering CI/CD tools. This requires in-depth training and a solid understanding of these critical topics, along with hands-on experience in configuring and managing secure networks.

Step #10 - Setting Up Firewalls, Proxy, and Servers

To increase the security and performance of your infrastructure, you’ll need firewalls to control unauthorized access to your servers. Understanding how to set up proxy servers and load balancers is also essential. Plus, knowing how to install certificates plays a vital role in your development journey. Here’s what you should be familiar with:

• Firewall: Acts as a barrier between your internal network and potential external threats, filtering traffic to block unauthorized access while allowing legitimate connections.
• Proxy: Serves as an intermediary between users and the internet, enhancing security by masking internal IP addresses and caching content for better response times.
• Web Servers: Tools like Apache or NGINX handle application hosting. Proper setup ensures your application can efficiently manage traffic and stay accessible to users.

Step # 11 - Understanding Serverless Implementation

The next step in your DevOps roadmap is to familiarize yourself with serverless computing. In a cloud computing model where resources are dynamically allocated and provisioned, serverless implementations let DevOps developers focus on what they do best—writing code. Instead of getting bogged down with resource allocation or server management, you can streamline your workflow. As a DevOps engineer, here are a few important topics you should be aware of:

• Cloudflare
• AWS Lambda
• Azure Functions
• Vercel

Step #12 - Infrastructure Provisioning

Infrastructure provisioning is a critical skill for a DevOps engineer, as it involves setting up and managing the underlying resources necessary for application deployment. You’ll need to familiarize yourself with tools that automate this process, which may improve efficiency and reduce the percentage of human error. Tools such as Terraform, which is actually a popular tool for building, changing, and versioning infrastructure. With AWS CloudFormation, AWS’s IaC tool allows you to model and set up AWS resources. Ansible is primarily a configuration management tool, it can also assist with provisioning infrastructure.

Step #13 - Configuration Management

Configuration management ensures that all systems are correctly configured and are monitored and controlled properly. This tool is essential for maintaining system stability and compliance. A DevOps engineer is responsible for automating configurations for servers and making sure they are correctly deployed.  There are several tools that help a DevOps engineer to learn and adapt to configuration management. There are tools such as Ansible which are used for automating software provisioning, configuration management, and application deployment.  Another tool called the Puppet is also used for a code-based approach to manage server configurations. Also, there’s a tool called Chef which works the same way as Puppet does and uses a code-based approach to manage servers. 

Step #14 - Infrastructure Monitoring

One of the important tasks for a DevOps engineer is to ensure the infrastructure performs as expected. With effective infrastructure monitoring, a DevOps engineer is much better equipped to identify potential problems which may affect the users. With effective real-time monitoring, it becomes significantly easier to attain real-time insights into the infrastructure health. You can use several tools such as Prometheus, an open-source system monitoring and alerting toolkit. On the contrary, Grafana which is often used with Prometheus brings adequate visualization for monitoring data. There is also a tool called Nagios, a monitoring tool which provides alerts for system failures & is designed to take care of performance issues.

Step #15 - Application Monitoring

Application monitoring focuses on the performance & availability of software applications. Effective application monitoring is important because it helps software developers meet user expectations and ensure the app functions correctly. A DevOps engineer usually performs user experience monitoring where they understand how an application performs from a user’s perspective. For effective application monitoring, here are a few important tools which are quite essential; especially when you want to grow yourself as a DevOps engineer.

• New Relic: New Relic is just one of those tools which you leverage in performance monitoring for applications in real-time.
• Dynatrace: The Dynatrace brings full-stack monitoring capabilities to the table.
• AppDynamics: This tool commonly focuses on application performance management and monitoring.

Step #16 - Continuous Learning and Community Engagement

Finally, becoming a proficient DevOps engineer requires a commitment to continuous learning and staying updated with industry trends. Engaging with the community can enhance your knowledge and expose you to best practices.

• Stay Updated: You can always choose to follow blogs, podcasts, and online courses to keep your skills sharp.

• Community Engagement: You can also participate in forums such as Stack Overflow, DevOps-specific groups on LinkedIn, or local meetups to network with other professionals.

• Certifications: There are a few relevant certifications (e.g., AWS Certified DevOps Engineer, Docker Certified Associate) which will validate your skills and knowledge.

Why DevOps is Crucial for Fresher Engineers? 

DevOps is crucial for fresher engineers because it equips them with a holistic understanding of the software development lifecycle, blending development and operations skills. By learning DevOps, freshers can work more efficiently in cross-functional teams, automate repetitive tasks, and quickly respond to real-time issues. This hands-on exposure to continuous integration, testing, and deployment prepares them for the fast-paced demands of modern software development. At the same time, it also enables them to adapt to different problem-solving abilities making them altogether more versatile and valuable for employees.

Concluding Thoughts 

Here’s the thing about DevOps, it’s vital because it bridges the gap between development and operations. That’s not all, it also establishes effective collaboration among teams, streamlines the software development process, and enhances the overall speed and efficiency of product deliveries. What makes DevOps good is how DevOps engineers can integrate automation and take care of continuous testing, and yet drive innovation allowing businesses to quickly adapt and change market demands. To ensure high-quality and secure software, DevOps boosts productivity and reduces the time required to market it. Ready to accelerate your software development process with easy integration & effective automation? Partner with Branex to build, test, and deploy your perfect software.  Contact us today to hire DevOps engineers to optimize your workflow and drive continuous innovation.

Every time you’re tempted to visit CHAT GPT for answers to some basic questions, there’s a high chance that the thought of having your website built may have crossed your mind. Often, you may have wondered how you can use Generative AI to create a shiny new website for your brand. If you’ve been there, this article is written specifically for you. While every other Tom, Dick, and Harry believes they can use tools like ChatGPT or Gemini to come up with potential ideas, they often fail to realize that things can get clunky pretty fast.  The Internet is full of half-baked digital solutions.  Many of these digital assets fail to gain enough traction and some don’t even see the light of day. In fact, more than 75% of users judge a website’s credibility based on the site’s overall design.  To establish that, today, more businesses are turning towards Generative AI services & AI-powered solutions.  They all aim to deliver a remarkable online experience At Branex, we have invested a lot of our precious time exploring a myriad of tools across the Internet, but our eyes have set upon one.  Wix ADI, a full-blown AI website builder. 

WIX ADI - A Complete AI-Powered Website Builder for All Businesses 

Wix ADI is a website builder that offers a one-of-a-kind experience. It’s not just for website designers and developers, but also for individuals visiting such digital presences. To create a pitch-perfect digital presence, all a person needs is to start a conversation with the Generative AI and share the vision behind the website. Within minutes, the tool will begin designing a website. It won’t just be appealing; it will also be so perfectly designed that it connects with the target audience most effectively. Wix ADI brings one of the best generative AI tools, a custom app solution to build your dream website. 

How to Use Wix ADI? 

There are two ways to access a Wix ADI-powered website builder. You can directly use the Wix ADI from the official website The simplest way to use Wix ADI is to access the tool from the official website. Wix offers a robust AI website builder. Creating a website is as easy as entering a prompt and hitting the “Create with AI” button. Before you know it, your breath-taking and shiny new website will be ready to hit Google. Are you new to Wix? If you haven’t logged into your account yet, you’ll land on the Wix login page. Simply follow the instructions to create a free Wix account. Once your account is set, you’ll be invited to start a chat with the AI tool.  All you have to do is be expressive. Share your idea with the Wix ADI, and get a website in minutes.

How Wix ADI-Powered Website Builder Works? 

The Wix ADI website builder is a user-friendly solution. It’s not like you require a how-to guide to create digital solutions, you can simply follow a series of easy steps to understand how Wix ADI works. 

1. Create a Vision for Your Website

For a website to be a success, it’s important that the Generative AI tool which you’re leveraging to create a digital presence must have a clear understanding of what you’re looking for. To begin with, you have to explain to Wix ADI what your business is all about and what you wish to achieve with the new website. And here’s the big question, if you can’t decide what you want to achieve, you don’t have to worry about it. Wix ADI is set to ask you a series of questions where the AI will use pre-fed information to personalize your dashboard. You can double-check if everything meets your requirement and click, “Generate Site”.  Here’s what the backend of your Wix dashboard will appear like: 

2. Change Your Website Design As Per Preference 

As soon as you hit the “Generate Site” button, the AI will get to work and create a new website experience pre-built with high-quality images, valuable text, and videos that reflect the true essence of your brand. If there’s something that’s not up to your standards, you can always ask the AI to regenerate the website or make a few elements a little bit different. To perform tweaks on certain elements, just highlight areas of the website that you wish to change and ask the AI to regenerate.  You can change different aspects of your website. For example: 

• Site profile - You can change the basic details of your website such as logo, site type, and site name. 
• Site structure - You can change the sections which you want to include on your homepage or other pages. 
• Site description - You can change the description of your business or what you wish to achieve from your site. 
• Theme - You can play around with the different color palettes, change the mood, and set the typography of your website. 
• Layout - You can set the overall style (such as “clean” or “modern”) or you can change the existing arrangement (such as, “mosaic” or “grid-like”) to have better-suited elements. 

3. You Can Make Adjustments Within the Wix Editor 

Do you find the current appearance of your website good enough? Or is there anything in particular that you wish to change about your website? Well, you can always make the relevant changes after you connect the domain name. As soon as you’re done with generating your website using Generative AI, the next step is to connect a domain if you haven’t already connected one.  Once you have connected the domain, the Wix ADI will prompt you with “Continue to the Editor.” The Editor will allow you to freely customize your website as per choice.  The Editor will allow you to change several things on your website such as images, page elements, and widgets. In the Editor, you can gain access to several other Generative AI tools, tools for creating text, building images, and taking care of many other areas of your website. Within the Editor, you will see there’s a star icon on certain options which indicates AI capabilities.  There’s also an option to customize the mobile version of your website. All you have to do is click on the phone icon appearing at the top of the Editor using which you can tweak or hide elements. 

What Are the Benefits of Using Wix ADI? 

For now, you might be wondering what the advantages of using Wix ADI are and why it should be considered a favorable option well here are a few benefits of using the platform: 

• Time-saving - Wix ADI making a unique website design only takes a few minutes.
• No technical skills - Wix ADI users do not need any coding or previous design experience.
• Personalized design - You can create a fully customized website design that reflects the user’s brand. 
• Easy customization -  You can easily customize the design, layout, and content as per choice. 

What Elements of Your Website Can You Customize with Wix ADI? 

1. You Can Change Sections & Pages 

Wix allows you to add, remove, or reorganize different website sections and pages.  As a user, you can choose from a variety of pre-built sections, including headers, service pages, about us section, galleries & even adjust contact forms. 

2. You Can Change Design & Layout Customization

Wix also offers a range of other customizable options.  You can modify the design as per your requirements. You can change the overall layout of the website too. In fact, users can adjust the background, set the spacing, set the alignment of elements as well as add, delete, or rechange content blocks. Wix platform doesn’t just stop there, you also have options for images, icons, and shapes which altogether improve the visual appearance of the website. 

3. You Can Choose Your Desired Typography & Color Schemes 

Just as much as other design features play a role, so do the different typography and color schemes.  Wix ADI provides you access to a large collection of fonts and different color palettes to choose from. You can use them to create a design that’s not just attractive but also sets the perfect tone for your web.  Assuming that your preferred choice of fonts is not available, you can always upload custom fonts to Wix or create your color scheme. You can do all that and much more to match your brand aesthetic. 

4. You Can Add Different Multimedia Integrations 

To make your website more dynamic and engaging, it’s important to integrate and introduce different multimedia elements. The elements can be anything, ranging from images, videos & audio files.  With Wix ADI, you can have your media or choose from an extensive library of free stock images & videos. In fact, users can embed media from external sources such as YouTube, Vimeo, SoundCloud, and other specific areas to make your website content up to par and on-point. 

5. You Can Add Third-Party Apps And Other Types of Integrations  

ADI offers several third-party apps and other interesting integrations such as the ones for e-commerce platforms, booking systems, social media feeds, and even email marketing.  When you integrate all these apps, you can create a truly immersive and interactive user experience. 

What Kind of Websites Can You Build with Wix ADI? 

1. You Can Build Small Business Websites

Many small businesses have successfully used Wix ADI to create professional websites. These businesses are eager to showcase their products or services. They want to increase their leads and sales. The only way they can achieve this is by investing in an AI-powered solution. Wix ADI allows them to quickly generate a website design that includes all necessary third-party integrations. These can range from booking systems to eCommerce.

2. You Can Create Personal Portfolios & Personal Blogs

We all have work that we prefer not to put on public platforms. Instead, we want to showcase our work or share our thoughts through personal portfolios and blogs. Wix ADI makes it easy to achieve this. It gives users the chance to create visually stunning personal portfolios. These portfolios speak volumes to customers. Wix ADI offers a user-friendly interface with diverse design options. It helps create a unique online presence that reflects your personality and style.

3. You Can Create eCommerce Websites

Wix ADI offers easy integration for eCommerce. You can create a functional online store with ease. Wix allows users to set up perfect product pages, manage inventories, process payments, and handle other eCommerce tasks through a single dashboard. With Wix, you can sell your desired products effortlessly using a single entity. This ensures your eCommerce sales targets are met.

Wix ADI - Frequently Asked Questions 

1. How does Wix ADI Compare to Other AI-driven Website Builders? 

Although the market is full of different AI-driven website builders, Wix ADI stands a class apart because of its intuitive interface, and plenty of customization options.  The app has earned a decent reputation as a leading website builder. Compared to many other website builders out there, Wix ADI is just an upgrade that offers plenty of room for developers. 

2. Can I Switch Between Wix ADI and Wix Editor?

Yes, you can switch between Wix ADI and Wix Editor to create a truly amazing website.  However, we believe it’s best to educate our audience that transitioning between Wix ADI to Wix Editor is a one-way ticket. It means, that once you shift to Wix Editor, you can’t revert back to Wix ADI.  It’s best to make sure you have completed the initial website design & you’re completely satisfied with the initial product. Because, once you hit the next button, you won’t have the chance to go back. 

3. Is Wix ADI Suitable for Large-Scale Websites? 

We can’t say for sure. Wix ADI has seen thriving success, especially for small and medium-sized websites. If a business profile is small, and you want to create a personal portfolio or relevant blogs for it, then Wix ADI is a good option. For relatively larger websites, you need a more appropriate solution where customizability shouldn’t be a problem.  

4. How Secure is a Website Developed by Wix ADI? 

For Wix, website security is serious. They offer a multitude of options such as SSL certificates. One can use standard security technology that ensures data gets transmitted between a user’s browser & website’s server is encrypted and kept well secure. Always check for updates & ensure the platform is well protected against all such potential security threats and vulnerabilities. 

Wix ADI - Resources & Support 

1. Wix Help Center

If you’re a Wix user, another great feature is the large knowledge database the platform provides. It offers detailed, comprehensive guides on many of the basics of Wix ADI and Wix Editor. There are plenty of tutorials and articles on various website design and development topics. The platform is a valuable resource for users seeking to learn more about Wix.

2. Wix Community Forums 

If you can’t find an answer on the Wix Help Center, there are always the Community Forums. Members are constantly communicating. These forums are a great place for users to connect with other Wix users. You’ll find plenty of web designers, web developers, and Wix experts who can help resolve queries. The forums provide answers to advanced questions and include interesting tips and tricks.

3. Wix Webinars & Workshops

Wix often holds workshops and hosts webinars for users. These events help users educate themselves on different features and functionalities, including Wix ADI. The workshops and webinars are designed to make the platform easier to use for both new and experienced users. Attendees learn best practices and discover new ways to optimize their sites.

4. Wix Design Services 

For website owners seeking professional assistance, Wix also offers standalone design services. Wix provides a wide range of services, including website design, e-commerce setup, branding, and more. These services, offered by experienced design experts, help create unique and engaging websites that meet specific business needs.

The Future of Website Creation with Wix ADI 

With the technology constantly evolving, we are now seeing an AI-driven era of website builders. Solutions such as Wix ADI are among the few that are playing an increasingly important role in the field of web design. It has seamlessly simplified the website development process, offers deeper personalization with AI-based solutions, and revolutionizes how individuals and businesses build online presence. The introduction of artificial intelligence and machine learning in websites is exciting and holds significant potential to reshape the industry.  With AI-driven tools such as Wix ADI, website development has become sophisticated giving users an intuitive edge, deeper personalization, and efficient website creation.   Branex is a professional website development company in the USA where we design and develop websites that are bound to give your digital presence the exposure it deserves.  Have a plan to design and implement the perfect website? Get a free consultation. 

Are you interested in launching your very own eCommerce business this year? You're not alone—eCommerce sales in the United States are projected to surpass $1 trillion by the end of 2024, according to eMarketer.  We've all been there—dreaming of our own online store where we can sell our products.  Many have envisioned starting an eCommerce business, but only a few have turned that dream into reality. If you're looking to build your online store but aren't entirely sure where to begin, this article is your perfect guide. Hopefully, this step-by-step guide will help you to understand the best knowledge you require to start your eCommerce business. Ready to explore in depth and detail how to create one?  Here’s the perfect eCommerce website development guide to help you start an eCommerce business. 

What is an Ecommerce Business? 

Before we initiate on how to build an eCommerce store, you need to understand what an eCommerce business is. eCommerce refers to purchasing and selling products and services online.  According to the U.S. Census Bureau, online sales accounted for 15% of total retail sales in 2023, a figure that's steadily increasing. In the simplest of terms, an eCommerce website is your virtual storefront. It allows your customers to purchase what they want from the comfort of their desktop or mobile device.  Even though a store may have a brick-and-mortar presence, an eCommerce business operates solely through the Internet, making it the easiest and fastest way to make a quick purchase online.

What Are the Different Types of eCommerce Businesses? 

Generally, there are four different types of eCommerce businesses: 

• B2B (Business to Business): A B2B model involves selling products or services to other businesses. This model is ideal for handling bulk orders or managing recurring transactions. 
• B2C (Business to Consumer): In a B2C model, businesses sell directly to individual consumers. The best example of a B2C eCommerce store is one that also has a physical retail presence, like Target or Walmart.
• C2B (Consumer to Business): In this model, individuals sell their products or services to businesses. An example is consumers offering feedback, content, or services to businesses in exchange for compensation. Websites like Fiverr are great examples of C2B transactions.
• C2C (Consumer to Consumer): This model enables consumers to sell products to other consumers. Etsy and eBay are prime examples of C2C platforms where people sell handmade crafts, vintage items, and other goods directly to other consumers.

Things You Need to Know: Starting an eCommerce Business in 2024

1. Choose Your Niche

This step is essential to follow if you’re going for a business-to-customer (B2C) website. If you already have a physical store or you're looking to create a marketplace, then you can skip the following step. In the case of a brick-and-mortar presence, your niche is already determined by the products you’re selling in your store. However, in an online marketplace, it’s the customers who drive the sales by listing their products. First things first, if you’re planning to launch your eCommerce store, it’s crucial to know what type of products you wish to sell online. Whether it’s home decor or apparel, your product selection will shape your brand. To ensure profitability, focus on products that are best-sellers in your chosen niche. Conduct competitor analysis to see what’s trending. For example, "athleisure" has been a booming niche, with sales increasing by 36% in 2023, according to Statista. Once you've identified the right niche, consider your audience. It’s important that your target market feels passionate about purchasing from you. A strong connection with your niche can significantly increase customer loyalty and repeat business.

2. Choose a Business Model

For every eCommerce presence, there are three different business models through which you can sell products online. Your choice will depend on how much control you want over the store.

• Dropshipping: Dropshipping is a model where you sell products without holding inventory. When a customer places an order, you purchase the item from a third-party supplier who ships it directly to the customer. This model requires minimal upfront investment but can result in lower profit margins. According to a report by Grand View Research, the global dropshipping market is expected to reach $557.9 billion by 2025, driven by its ease of entry and low risk.
• Wholesaling: Wholesaling involves purchasing products in bulk from manufacturers at lower prices and then selling them at retail prices. This model requires upfront capital for inventory and storage but allows for higher profit margins per sale. With wholesaling, you have greater control over product selection, pricing, and inventory management. However, it also carries the risk of unsold stock, which can impact profitability.
• Manufacturing: In this model, you create your products and sell them directly to customers. Manufacturing offers complete control over product design, quality, and branding, giving your business a unique edge. However, it requires substantial investment in production facilities, materials, and research. The rewards can be significant, with higher profits and stronger brand loyalty, but the risks are also greater due to the complexities of managing the entire supply chain. 

Our eCommerce development services offer store solutions built on any of the above-mentioned business models.

3. Register Your Business

According to Harvard Business Review, a strong, memorable business name can increase brand recall by up to 70%. Once you have decided on the type of product you’re going to sell and the business model you’ll use for your eCommerce store, your next task is to select the best business name. Your business name will reflect on your website’s domain and across other online platforms, including review sites and social media. Choose a name that’s unique, easy to remember, and available as a domain. Make sure to register your business legally and obtain the necessary licenses to operate. This step not only legitimizes your business but also protects your brand.

4. Picking the Right eCommerce Platform

Choosing the right eCommerce platform is one of the most critical decisions you'll make for your online business.  While there are plenty of options available, it’s essential to choose a platform that satisfies your business needs. Here are some popular platforms:

• Shopify: Known for its ease of use and extensive app ecosystem, Shopify is ideal for beginners and small to medium-sized businesses. It offers a range of customizable themes and integrates with various third-party tools, making it a versatile choice.
• WooCommerce: If you prefer flexibility, WooCommerce is a great option. As a plugin for WordPress, it offers robust customization options and scalability, allowing you to grow your store as your business expands.
• Magento: For larger enterprises with more complex needs, Magento offers unparalleled customization and scalability. However, it requires a higher level of technical expertise to manage effectively.

When choosing your platform, consider factors like ease of use, scalability, and customization options. If you anticipate rapid growth, ensure the platform can handle increased traffic and sales without compromising performance.  A study by Statista found that 29% of eCommerce businesses experienced significant platform-related challenges due to scalability issues, so make sure your choice can grow with you.

5. Designing Your Website

Your website is the digital face of your brand, and first impressions matter. A well-designed, user-friendly site can boost your conversion rates. Here’s how to create a compelling eCommerce website:

• Choose a Theme or Hire a Designer: If you're using platforms like Shopify or WooCommerce, you can select a theme that suits your brand. Many of these themes are customizable, allowing you to tweak colors, fonts, and layouts. For a more unique look, consider hiring a professional web designer who can create a custom design that reflects your brand's personality.
• Make It Responsive: With over 54% of web traffic coming from mobile devices, your website must be responsive. It means your website can deliver seamless results on smartphones, tablets, and desktops. A responsive design not only improves user experience but also boosts your site's search engine ranking.
• Essential Pages: Your website should include key pages like Home, About Us, Shop, Contact Us, and Privacy Policy. These pages not only provide important information but also build trust with your customers. According to a Nielsen Norman Group study, clear and easy navigation can increase user retention by 40%, so ensure your site is easy to explore.

6. Setting Up Payment Gateways

A smooth payment process is vital for customer satisfaction and can be a determining factor in whether a shopper completes a purchase. Here’s how to set up payment gateways: 

• Integrate Popular Payment Options: Customers expect flexibility in payment methods. Integrate options like PayPal, Stripe, and credit card processors to cater to a wide audience. PayPal, for instance, is trusted by over 400 million active users worldwide, making it a reliable choice for your store.
• Ensure Security: Payment security is non-negotiable. Implement SSL certificates to encrypt transactions and protect customer data. A study by the Baymard Institute found that 18% of customers abandon their carts due to concerns about payment security, so prioritize a secure checkout process.
• Ease of Use: Simplify the payment process as much as possible. Allow guest checkouts and minimize the number of steps required to complete a purchase. The smoother the process, the less likely customers are to abandon their carts. According to a study by Barilliance, the average cart abandonment rate is nearly 70%, so a streamlined checkout can improve conversions.

7. Adding Products

Once your website is set up, it's time to populate it with products. How you present your products can make or break your online store's success. Follow these tips to ensure your products shine:

• High-Quality Images: Invest in high-quality images for each product. Clear, detailed photos can increase sales by 30%, according to a Shopify report. Consider multiple angles, zoom options, and even 360-degree views to give customers a comprehensive look at your products.
• Detailed Descriptions: A good product description does more than just list features; it tells a story. Describe the benefits, materials, and uses of the product. Incorporate keywords naturally to improve search engine visibility, but keep the tone conversational. 
• Organize into Categories: Properly organizing your products into categories improves navigation and increases the shopping experience. Categories should be intuitive, allowing customers to easily find what they're looking for. A well-organized store not only improves user experience but also encourages more browsing, increasing the likelihood of multiple purchases.

8. Implementing SEO Strategies

Search engine optimization (SEO) is the backbone of your online store's visibility. Without it, your beautifully designed website might as well be invisible. Here’s how to implement effective SEO strategies:

• Optimize for Search Engines: Start by identifying relevant keywords that your target audience is searching for. Tools like Google Keyword Planner or Ahrefs can help you discover high-traffic keywords related to your products. Integrate these keywords naturally into your website's content, including product descriptions, titles, and meta tags.
• Meta Tags and Descriptions: Meta tags are like a sneak peek of your webpage. Ensure each page on your website has a unique meta title and description. These not only help search engines understand the content but also entice users to click on your site from search results. According to Moz, well-crafted meta descriptions can increase click-through rates by up to 5.8%.
• Quality Content: Content is still king. Regularly update your site with high-quality content, such as blog posts, product guides, and customer testimonials. Content marketing can drive organic traffic to your site, improving both your search rankings and customer engagement.
• On-Page and Off-Page SEO: Don’t just focus on what’s happening on your website. On-page SEO involves optimizing individual pages, while off-page SEO focuses on activities outside your website that impact rankings, like backlinks from reputable sites. According to Backlinko, websites with high-quality backlinks are 3.8 times more likely to rank higher on Google.

9. Setting Up Shipping Options

Shipping is a critical component of your eCommerce business, directly impacting customer satisfaction and your bottom line. Here’s how to set up effective shipping options:

• Choose Shipping Methods: Decide which shipping methods you’ll offer. Will you provide flat-rate shipping, or will you offer free shipping to encourage more sales? A study by Invesp shows that 93% of online buyers are encouraged to purchase more products if free shipping is available.
• Integrate with Shipping Carriers: Partner with reliable shipping carriers like FedEx, UPS, or USPS. Many eCommerce platforms offer easy integration with these carriers, allowing you to automate shipping calculations and print labels directly from your website. This can save you time and reduce errors in the shipping process.
• Set Clear Shipping Policies: Transparency is key. Clearly outline your shipping policies on your website, including delivery times, costs, and return processes. Customers appreciate knowing what to expect, and clear policies can reduce cart abandonment. According to Statista, 56% of U.S. shoppers abandoned their carts due to unexpected shipping costs.

10. Testing and Launching Your Site

The moment of truth is here—your site is ready to go live. But before you hit that launch button, thorough testing is crucial. Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure a smooth launch:

• Perform a Full Site Audit: A comprehensive audit checks for any technical issues that could affect your site’s performance. Use tools like Google Search Console or SEMrush to identify broken links, missing meta tags, or slow page load times. A study by Kissmetrics found that 47% of consumers expect a web page to load in 2 seconds or less, so addressing these issues is vital.
• Test User Experience: Navigate through your site as if you were a customer. Test the product search, navigation, and checkout process to ensure everything is intuitive and glitch-free. Don't forget to test the mobile version of your site—mobile shopping accounted for 72.9% of global eCommerce sales in 2021, so mobile responsiveness is a must.
• Payment Process: Run multiple test transactions to ensure that the payment process works seamlessly. Check for any delays or errors, as these could frustrate customers and lead to lost sales.
• Launch and Promote: Once you’re confident everything is working perfectly, it’s time to launch. Announce your site through social media channels, email marketing campaigns, and online ads. Create a buzz around your launch with promotions, discounts, or even a giveaway to attract initial traffic.

Concluding Thoughts

Starting an eCommerce business in 2024 offers incredible opportunities, but success requires careful planning and execution. When it comes to choosing the right platform, you want an eCommerce website which is user-friendly, follows the best SEO marketing strategy, and offers easy payment & shipping options. Always remember, the key is to stay adaptable, continuously optimize, and keep your customers happy and at the heart of every decision. Ready to turn your eCommerce dream into reality?  The time to start is now.  Branex is a premier custom website development company specializing in top-tier eCommerce solutions. We deliver high-end eCommerce websites tailored to your needs, utilizing platforms such as Shopify, Magento, and other bespoke software platform solutions.

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