Meet Catalin of Ecommerce Platforms, an Ecommerce Review Site

Ecommerce Platforms is an unbiased review site that shows the good, great, bad, and ugly of online store building software. They strive to provide readers with easy to read (and sometimes fun) and objective reviews that will help people choose which ecommerce platform is right for their individual needs. They invite readers to follow them on Twitter, comment, question, contact, and ENGAGE!

Check out the Ecommerce Platforms comparison chart to look at the different ecommerce platforms and their features.

1. Why did you decide to launch a website with a focus on reviewing ecommerce platforms?

A friend of mine asked for help finding the best ecommerce platform for his new business venture. However, after numerous days spent Googling the right platform, I realized that the information out there about ecommerce platforms really isn't all that good. This was when I decided to create Ecommerce Platforms, because I wanted other people to be able to find comparisons between the different platforms as well as reviews and tutorials.

2. When it comes to choosing an ecommerce platform, how important of a factor is the size of your business? In other words, do smaller businesses have different needs than medium or large businesses?

Yes, smaller companies might not need some of the features offered by the bigger, more expensive platforms. Therefore, smaller companies might consider signing up with a more niche-driven ecommerce platform. While I would recommend that large businesses sign up with companies such as Shopify or Bigcommerce, I would recommend that smaller companies consider a platform such as Big Cartel as they cater directly to smaller companies. This article covers some of these differences.

3. For you personally, what separates a "good" ecommerce platform from a "great" one?

The first word that comes to mind when I think about a great platform is "templates." Really, the one thing that often sets ecommerce platforms apart is the templates they offer. While some companies offer very basic templates, others go the extra mile to offer amazing templates. Secondly, it is very important to look at what kinds of add-ons the site offers, as many sites will offer certain add-ons and plug-ins for free, while other sites might charge for the same features.

4. What are some other topics you cover on your site?

While we do focus on reviewing the different ecommerce platforms, we also spend a lot of time looking for the best plug-ins for the different store sites. Furthermore, we are spending more time now looking at great WordPress plug-ins that can be used to boost sales. We are also working on more tips and tutorials for those who are just getting started in the ecommerce industry.

5. If you were to meet someone who is just getting started with selling products or services online, what would your advice be?

Don't give up! It will be a long process, but in the end it will be a very rewarding process. Secondly, do your research: in other words, do not jump the gun and sign up for the first and cheapest platform you can find. In the end it will come back to haunt you. Once you have completed your store, make sure you market it, everywhere you can possibly think of.

Thanks, Catalin!