May 11, 2016

How to Keep Up with Digital Retailing Demands

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Michael Jenkins
Michael Jenkins

CEO - Shout Agency
[email protected]

Overview

In the fast-paced world of retail, staying ahead of the curve is no longer an option—it’s a necessity. The digital revolution has completely transformed the way consumers shop, and as technology continues to evolve, so do their expectations. To thrive in this dynamic landscape, retailers must embrace the ever-changing demands of digital retailing and adapt their strategies accordingly.

In the first part of this blog series, we explored the disruptive shifts that have reshaped the retail industry and highlighted the growing importance of e-commerce, mobile commerce, and omnichannel experiences. As we dive deeper into this topic, we will uncover actionable insights and cutting-edge approaches that empower retailers to keep pace with digital retailing demands.

In this extended blog post, we shed light on five crucial strategies that forward-thinking retailers in Australia and beyond are implementing to stay competitive in the digital realm. From leveraging artificial intelligence and data analytics to personalising customer experiences, these tactics play a pivotal role in delivering exceptional service and driving customer loyalty.

We will explore the significance of seamless integration between online and offline shopping channels, unlocking the full potential of a unified retail ecosystem. By embracing technology-driven solutions, retailers can not only meet but exceed customer expectations, bolstering their brand reputation and staying one step ahead of their competitors.

Join us on this informative journey as we navigate the intricate landscape of digital retailing. Whether you’re a seasoned industry expert or a budding entrepreneur, our aim is to equip you with the knowledge and tools needed to successfully navigate the digital retail landscape and sustain long-term growth. Let’s embark on this transformative exploration of digital retailing together, and discover the pathways to enduring success in the face of ever-evolving consumer demands.

7 Digital Retailing Best Practices

1. Moving from mortar to digital

Some of the largest players in the digital retailing space also happen to be the biggest brick and mortar brands (Target, Office Works and Bunnings for example.).

While they all still hold major offline positions in their field, many of them have fully embraced the new cloud and big data improvements over the past decade.

If you want to experience the same benefits for your business, you should follow their lead.

These cloud-based digital warehouse and sales programs are available to small and mid-size ecommerce stores. They provide you with the flexibility and accessibility to get your products sold and shipped quickly to consumers.

2. Technology is a big part

While the beauty of the cloud is that you do not have to store all of the hardware on site, digital retailers still have a number of hardware, network, and security needs.

Remember that you need systems in place that are secure enough for online payments.

For example, we mentioned in the Top 22 Google Ranking Factors how vital it is to have an SSL certificate for your site if you want to earn the trust of your customers.

This is a necessity in ecommerce and just one small thing you can do to improve the security of your technology. SSL should be in place at the time of your website development or as soon as possible if you have not done so already.

Make sure you have the right technology for your ecommerce store, so your customers can feel safe working with you.

3. Cross-Organizational Teams

Another way to get ahead is to create a cross-organizational team to smoothly manage your ecommerce needs from start to finish.

The reality is that most ecommerce sites require a decent size team to compete in today’s market.

That means having a dedicated team is essential for any enterprise that wants to improve their digital retail skills or, at the very least, a digital marketing partner that can manage and implement strategies across all channels.

4. Omni-channel

Retailers need to be nimble across different platforms and devices.

Your site should work as smoothly on mobile devices as desktops. That is why responsive design websites are key for any business that wants to work with a wide variety of devices.

Additionally, digital retailers now must rely upon a number of different platforms to generate sales.

This means using platforms like Google Shopping, Amazon, Etsy, and other relevant ecommerce juggernauts.

5. Metrics

If you want to ensure the best possible customer service for your customers, you need to identify your fail points.

Tracking and measuring every part of the process is the only way to improve. Make sure that you have the systems and tools in place to do this correctly.

Otherwise, you will end up wasting a lot of time on how to best serve your customers.

6. Speed

It is no longer acceptable to wait a week before shipping. Otherwise, you need to compete with services like Amazon Prime that promise two-day deliveries to VIP members.

Furthermore, Amazon is even experimenting with one-hour delivery on certain products in specific locations.

This is not an aberration, but the future of digital retailing. If you are not able to move quickly, you will suffer.

7. Consumer Preferences

Finally, remember that customers on the internet have a wide array of choices for most products. The companies who win deliver exceptionally fast and accurate products to their clients.

The more you figure out ways to improve the life of your clients, the more they appreciate your digital retail portal.

Final Thoughts

Digital retailing is in the midst of a revolution not seen since the early days of online marketing.

Ecommerce shops who want to compete must focus on improving their customer service and supply chain management to the point of perfection.

It is the perfect opportunity for a small, nimble ecommerce team to take the lead with creative ideas and excellent execution.

If your digital retail company is ready to compete, and you are looking for a digital marketing company in Australia
then contact us at Shout to find out how we can help you.

Book a free 45 minute consultation today.

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      Book a free 45 minute consultation today.

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        As Founder and Director of Shout Web Strategy, Michael Jenkins is at the forefront of digital marketing. Since it’s inception in 2009, Shout has built a strong reputation as one of Australia’s leading strategic SEO agencies, assisting online businesses to formulate, implement and track successful marketing strategies. Michael is a respected thought leader and digital strategist, specialising in online strategy, corporate SEO, Google retargeting, email and conversion rate optimisation, and online reputation management. Follow Michael on Google+, connect with him through LinkedIn or visit the Shout Web Strategy website.

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