As you begin to evaluate new ecommerce platforms and third party tools, you will find that many options are available through Value Added Resellers (VARs), Integrators and Developers. This allows the developers of the software to focus on research and development efforts; while allowing VARs and integrators to sell and implement the solution. One of the best examples of this is the Magento Enterprise platform.
There are literally hundreds of partners within the Magento community that provide a wide array of services and functionality. Some of these partners focus on specific functionality, while others provide implementation services as well as website design and SEO services and additional functionality for Magento.
This type of model has many benefits for the right business, but at the same time forces interested ecommerce companies to perform additional detailed due diligence. Ecommerce companies shouldn’t assume that just because a VAR is a partner that they there are the best choice for your particular company. Performing the proper due diligence will insure that you are selecting the right partner. Below are two major considerations that ecommerce companies must think about.
Understanding the VAR Layer
One major benefit for ecommerce companies is that VARs and integrators often add additional functionality to the base applications to support a wide array of businesses. It is important to remember that the functionality that each VAR or integrator develops does not go back into the base code – it is unique to that VAR. Companies must understand what functionality that is being presented is part of the base software, or is it unique to that specific VAR or integrator. For the functionality that is not part of the base software, how much more will this cost your company and how easy is it to support in the future?
Selecting the Right VAR or Integrator
Not all VARs and integrators are equal. Let’s assume that you are comfortable with the due diligence and now you need to select the right VAR or integrator. You need to determine which VAR or integrator is the best partner for your company. Has your preferred VAR implemented the solution for other companies similar to yours? Apparel, for instance, is not something that all VARs and integrators are capable of supporting. The needs of apparel businesses are vastly different than that of a hard goods business. Are there other aspects to your business that could potentially eliminate other VARs; such as a gift registry or in-depth product personalization? You must select a VAR or integrator that not only understands your business, but can show you a portfolio of companies that they have provided similar services for.
For many ecommerce companies this type of model can be very beneficial, as long as the proper due diligence is performed. Various VARs and integrators can offer functionality that sets them apart from other partners. Be sure to understand the capabilities of each VAR or integrator and their core competencies as it relates to your particular business and merchandise categories.
If F. Curtis Barry & Company can assist you with conducting the due diligence in finding the best fit ecommerce platform and VAR for your business, we hope that you will reach out to us to discuss our services.
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