Ecommerce Application Service Providers Key Terms

Learn what to expect form your e-commerce application service providers
By Shannon Tani Ecommerce application service providers help you to get everything that you need for your website without having to do all of the work yourself. Most business owners simply don't have the time or skills to create a full-fledged website, so they choose to hire someone else to do the work. However, it can be difficult to talk to application creators if you don't know what you need for your site. Take a look at the following key terms to help you when dealing with ecommerce application service providers.
 

Servers and hosting

Servers are the hardware that are used in hosting. Your hosting company keeps all of the files for your website on their servers. When someone tries to access your website, the servers will deliver the content. This is an important service provided by ecommerce companies.
Try: Hostway explains their hosting options and the benefits of a dedicated server.

Electronic and ACH payments

In order to have an ecommerce site, you need to accept payments electronically. Ecommerce application providers should provide you with a solution that allows you to take payments. ACH payments are ones that go through the Automated Clearing House (ACH) Network, which ensures funds are available.
Try: NACHA explains the Automated Clearing House (ACH) Network and how it works.

Shopping cart

A shopping cart allows your customers to purchase several items at the same time, similar to a shopping cart in a store. Ask your application provider to install this important application on your site.
Try: Interspire lists out some of the features of their shopping cart.

Macros

Macros are small bits of computer code that give your website functionality. In many cases, the code for a macro has already been written and your provider will adjust the code to suit your needs.
Try: Learn more about macros and how to write them from ImageJ.

RSS feed

An application provider should install something on your website that makes it easy for customers to sign up for your RSS feed. RSS stands for Really Simple Syndication and it is a way that customers can learn about new information on your site.
Try: Learn more about RSS feeds from a video on YouTube.

Autoresponders

Autoresponders offer a way for you to capture customer data and follow up through a series of scheduled emails. This is a great feature for retaining customers. Ask your provider about this service.
Try: Aweber offers autoresponder service and explains the concept.