WordPress is an excellent platform to not just build websites, but also create functional and robust e-commerce stores. The WooCommerce plugin by WordPress helps organisations offer added versatility and functionality to their customers through well-designed and planned extensions.
When creating your establishment or company’s e-commerce site, you might be unaware of the right extensions you should be using to derive the best output from the WooCommerce plugin. This article provides 7 useful tips to help you choose the plugins you need.
1. Only Use Extensions From Reliable Sources:
When we are looking for extensions, it might be tempting to source free versions of premium WordPress Plugins from third-party websites. While these plugins might seem impressive, they can be very harmful! Some of them are even designed to collect data that can be harmful to the users of the store. Hence only extensions from reliable sources should be used.
2. Do Your Due Diligence on The Extension:
Remember that all extensions might not be compatible with your site or offer the exact features you need. Ask your developer to do the necessary due diligence. One way to go about it is to ask / refer to other sites that have used the same extension. Alternatively, one can read reviews (although this should be taken with a pinch of salt as many fake reviews are present).
3. Skim through Ratings and Reviews:
As much as possible, only choose plugins and extensions that have a rating of 4 and above (on a scale of 5). Absolutely avoid poorly rated plugins at all costs. Once you have shortlisted some extensions, visit the vendor’s site and check the reviews or testimonials to make an informed decision. As a rule of thumb, plugins that have a good number of downloads are generally reliable and can be used.
4. Use Relevant or Latest Versions of the Extensions:
Many people make the mistake of using old and obsolete extensions as these are generally quite inexpensive. Avoid this mistake at all costs. Using redundant or obsolete plugins can rob your e-commerce site of relevant updates and can ultimately even ruin the user experience for your customers.
5. Compatibility with WordPress:
Plugins are constantly getting updated, and so is WordPress. Install the plugin or extension and ensure that it is compatible with the extension of WordPress being used by you or your organisation. Remember that you just can’t install plugins and forget bout them! You need to constantly update them (as and when new versions become available) to ensure that the plugins are compatible. Using incompatible or outdated plugins can cause your site, and your e-commerce store to stall!
6. Choose Paid Extensions / Plugins (If Possible):
WooCommerce by itself is free and is an open-source platform. However, the extensions that can be used can be free or paid. Many organisations are tempted to use the free ones (as they are free!). However, paid plugins cost approximately only $30 to $100 and offer the reliability that is much higher than free plugins.
7. Emphasize on Functionality and Robustness:
Many people only look at the aesthetics of the extension when making a decision. While aesthetics is somewhat important, functionality is extremely pertinent. Ensure that your plugins are functional, and then customise them on the basis of design.
Notes to Remember:
The plugins you choose can make or break your e-commerce platform. Ensure that you are aware and make a clear choice when it comes to selecting plugins. Remember that you are responsible for the safety and functionality of your store and your customer’s data.
22% of all online checkouts are affected through WooCommerce. Enable an effective transaction experience for your customers.
References:
https://www.google.com/amp/s/makewebbetter.com/blog/woocommerce-statistics-infographic/
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