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What Is Shopify and How Does It Work? (2024)

Shopify is a commerce platform that helps you sell online and in person. In this article we'll discuss some of Shopify's features, benefits, and plans.

Every day, millions of people just like you are using Shopify to power their businesses, from exciting online side hustles to established global brands. Shopify is all about making commerce better for everyone.

So, what exactly is Shopify, and how does it work? Let’s dive into the essential features that can help you make sales and manage your store with ease!

What is Shopify?

Shopify is a user-friendly commerce platform designed to help you sell online and in person. Whether you're an entrepreneur just starting out or a retailer with a global presence, Shopify makes it simple to process sales, run your store, and grow your business.

Ready to take the leap? Contact a member of our friendly team to learn more.

How Shopify Works

Shopify’s tools and products work seamlessly together to help you reach customers everywhere.

Build an Online Store

With Monument Media you can set up your online store using Shopify's store editor. Choose from a variety of beautiful, mobile-friendly themes that not only look great but are also customisable with minimal coding needed. Plus, you can enhance your site with third-party apps or make use of Shopify's built-in AI. This can help you create product descriptions and manage your content.

Turn Browsers into Buyers

When you're ready to start selling, Shopify Checkout offers your customers a safe, ultra-fast checkout experience. It supports all major payment methods right from day one, and with Shop Pay, shoppers can place orders with just one tap!

Automate Shipping

Handling orders? We’ve got you covered! Shipping with Shopify is straightforward and cost-effective. You can automatically generate shipping labels, provide detailed tracking information, and even enjoy discounts on shipping rates. As your orders grow, you can also utilise the Shopify Fulfillment Network to simplify inventory storage and returns.

Sell Everywhere

Selling through your website is just the beginning! With Shopify, you can promote and sell on social platforms like Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube. Expand your reach to international customers and connect your products with marketplaces like Amazon and Etsy. For in-person sales, our Shopify Point of Sale (POS) App keeps everything synced across your online and physical stores.

Market Your Brand

Understanding your audience is key to boosting your sales. Use reports to see what drives visitors to your site and what turns them into customers. Create targeted marketing campaigns, send abandoned cart emails, and collaborate with influencers through Shopify Collabs to help your products go viral.

Integrate with over 8,000 Apps

Want to enhance your store’s features? You can add third-party apps from the Shopify App Store, covering everything from dropshipping to AI-powered customer support.

Manage Your Finances

Shopify helps you keep your business finances in check, ensuring you collect the right sales tax and monitor your expenses. Plus, with Shopify Capital, you can fund your bestsellers and marketing efforts, or enjoy cashback with Shopify Credit.

Keep Growing

Entrepreneurship is a journey with endless opportunities for growth. Even large retailers like Staples and Glossier choose Shopify to support their scaling needs.

Plans and Pricing

Shopify offers four flexible plans tailored to different business needs:

Basic: Perfect for solo entrepreneurs.
Shopify: Great for small teams.
Advanced: Supports growing businesses.
Plus: Designed for complex business needs.

Start Selling Today!

With the internet’s best-converting checkout, comprehensive support, and shipping discounts, Shopify is able to help you provide an exceptional shopping experience. From aspiring TikTok stars to beloved heritage brands, Shopify's tools are designed to support your unique business journey.

Ready to see how Monument Media can help you along the way? Let’s get started!

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the benefits of a web design and development agency?

A web development agency is your partner in designing, building, and enhancing your online presence. When you team up with us, you’ll get a website that’s expertly coded and programmed to meet your unique needs.

Our web design agency is made up of creative professionals who are passionate about improving your website’s layout, user experience, and overall look. We dive deep into brand analysis, wireframing, logo design, motion graphics, and website redesign to craft beautiful websites that truly represent your brand and attract the clients you want.

While web design is all about the visual appeal, web development focuses on the technical side, ensuring those designs come to life. If you have specific functionalities in mind or unique features your business needs, that’s where a combined web development and design agency can really shine.

At Monument Media, we offer the best of both worlds. When you come to us with your ideas, we’ll work closely together to create a website that not only looks great but also works seamlessly.

Plus, our full-service digital marketing expertise will support you every step of the way! This means you won’t have to search for another agency to handle your digital marketing needs. We’ll get to know your brand and help you grow with a comprehensive range of services, including SEO.

Here’s what our web development and design agency can do for you:

Craft visually stunning and functional websites tailored to your audience.
Keep your site updated with the latest digital trends to ensure optimal performance.
Boost your online presence and help your brand thrive with our dedicated digital marketing expertise.

Why should I use Shopify?

Developing a website using Shopify offers numerous advantages that make it an ideal choice for e-commerce businesses. One of its standout features is the user-friendly interface, which allows businesses to manage their online store effortlessly. This accessibility is complemented by an extensive library of customisable themes, enabling businesses to tailor their store’s appearance to reflect their unique brand identity. With a focus on design, Shopify ensures a visually appealing and user-friendly layout, enhancing the overall shopping experience.

Shopify also provides a comprehensive suite of e-commerce features, including secure payment gateways, inventory management, and shipping solutions, all of which simplify online store management. The platform’s mobile responsiveness is crucial in today’s market, ensuring a seamless shopping experience across devices, while built-in SEO features improve store visibility in search engine results. Additionally, Shopify’s vast app ecosystem allows businesses to integrate various tools for marketing, customer support, and sales optimisation, providing the flexibility to adapt as they grow.

Can I track customer behaviour in my shopping cart?

Yes, tracking customer behaviour within your shopping cart is possible through analytics tools. Most e-commerce platforms, including Shopify, provide integrated analytics that allows you to monitor cart additions, removals, and checkout progression.

When should you create a website mockup?

A website mockup is an essential tool in the development of a fully customised website, as it provides a clear visual representation of the site's appearance and functionality before development begins. This mockup serves as a reference point that can be shared, discussed, and iterated upon during the design process. Depending on the specific project, you may create a mockup following the sketching of a wireframe, or you might opt to proceed directly to the mockup stage after defining the project requirements.

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