The Future of E-commerce: New Data from Ovum
austin • June 20, 2022
Ever wondered what e-commerce will look like in the future?
Consulting firm Ovum is giving us a peek into the future with their e-commerce forecast through 2026, which answers questions about what might change within the online marketplace, how technology may impact the industry, and what future consumers will likely expect.
Consulting firm Ovum is giving us a peek into the future with their e-commerce forecast through 2026, which answers questions about what might change within the online marketplace, how technology may impact the industry, and what future consumers will likely expect.
Take a look at some of the key takeaways of this research to better understand where e-commerce is moving and to prepare yourself for the future.
The Customer of the Future
Today, e-commerce customers, for the most part, expect good deals and quick delivery. However, a growing number of online consumers (largely millennials) are already beginning to shift expectations and raise the bar. They want unique products that can’t be found in mass-retail stores and 24/7 access to support, just to name a few of their burgeoning desires.
What does this mean for the future?
High expectations & unique experiences
Ovum predicts that by 2026, the bar will be even higher for e-commerce merchants. Shoppers will expect things like seamless experiences across devices and touchpoints, instant access to support, fast turnaround of orders, personalized experiences, and free or low-cost delivery — just to name a few.
Complex shopping journeys
As technology adds more touchpoints to the shopping journey (think mobile, desktop, in-store, connected devices, etc.), the straight line path to conversion will become a thing of the past. Instead, complex shopping journeys that span various experiences and devices will be more pretzel-shaped. For retailers, that means figuring out how to measure which avenues are driving the highest ROI and optimizing a much more sophisticated path to purchase.
The sharing economy
Buyers of the future will also likely expect online merchants to tap into the sharing economy as well. Smart retailers will need to learn to leverage partnerships and sharing opportunities, such as retailers like H&M are already doing with their donations of returned products to charities. This presents an opportunity for greater sustainability efforts, less waste, and more moments of giving — all of which is a positive message for consumers to hear.
Blurred Boundaries Between Online and Offline With big e-commerce brands like Amazon testing out the physical retail model (their Amazon Books and Amazon Go stores, for example), in the future, we can expect to see the line between online and offline points of purchase become more seamless and intertwined for retailers large and small.
Let’s look at some of the key ways this may manifest itself.
Experience-fulfillment Rather than an online-physical distinction, retail will like to move towards an experience fulfillment model in which the customer shopping experience takes precedence over a range of products. This could also mean more pop-up stores for more dynamic, interactive shopping experiences, too.
Manufacturers gain power As manufacturers seek more control over how their products are displayed and sold, they may be able to exercise their power more in the future — especially in the electrical devices marketplace — by favoriting only sites that meet their requirements.
From omnichannel to omnibrand Retails who approach the experience from a tech-favorable mindset that works seamlessly across channels will likely outpace the competition, as they’ll be empowering shoppers to shop when, where, and how they want. This does require some investment in tech and logistics, so smaller online retailers may struggle to scale up their operations and meet this growing demand.
Increased Mobile Sales As smartphones with larger screens become the norm, we can continue to see more and more shoppers using mobile devices for e-commerce transactions. Retailers who optimize their websites and processes with a mobile-first mentality will best capitalize on these shifts in buying habits.
What else does this mean for mobile commerce?
Using geolocation Looking ahead, it’s likely that geolocation will be leveraged by retailers looking to deliver contextual marketing to customers. The adaptation period for hyperlocal commerce may be slow, and retailers must use this data responsibly without overstepping the bounds of privacy. However, used conservatively, this type of data can help shoppers get the best possible deals nearby — and creates opportunities for customer engagement on a whole new level.
More mobile payments Mobile payment will most likely be mainstream by 2026 but will have evolved thanks to improvements in tech. This means most payment formats across the board may shift to be more device-based rather than depend on physical cards. Cash will not be eradicated, but will likely be used in much lower frequency.
Mobile loyalty programs With mobile-enabled loyalty programs, interactivity and engagement can be optimized in ways that traditional methods have not been able to master. This will empower consumers to load multiple digital reward cards into a mobile wallet, which can then tie into game-like elements that boost use amongst shoppers.
Mobile advertising Mobile advertising will continue on an upward trajectory — and spending will most certainly increase within this medium. However, native applications will likely be replaced by more intuitive approaches that help retailers select the most relevant channel to accomplish advertising goals.
Future Technologies By 2026, we’ll likely live in a hyper-connected world, with more than 660 million machine-to-machine connections around the world. These connections will make retail more efficient and effective, and will also make advertising more targeted and personalized than ever before.
Here are some specific ways technology may impact e-commerce:
The Internet of Things (IoT) If IoT payment and commerce applications don’t have a hyper-relevant purpose for the consumer, they’re likely to be seen as gimmicks — and because of this — Ovum remains skeptical about their use and adoption on a mass-scale. Over-connectivity could cause frustration for shoppers who feel a lack of control over their environment.
Wearable Tech Wearables may be a solid source of detailed data — which enables more accurate advertising through mobile mediums. However, privacy infringement will be a major concern for shoppers — so retailers will have to walk a fine line when targeting consumers via wearable tech.
Augmented reality
Blurred Boundaries Between Online and Offline With big e-commerce brands like Amazon testing out the physical retail model (their Amazon Books and Amazon Go stores, for example), in the future, we can expect to see the line between online and offline points of purchase become more seamless and intertwined for retailers large and small.
Let’s look at some of the key ways this may manifest itself.
Experience-fulfillment Rather than an online-physical distinction, retail will like to move towards an experience fulfillment model in which the customer shopping experience takes precedence over a range of products. This could also mean more pop-up stores for more dynamic, interactive shopping experiences, too.
Manufacturers gain power As manufacturers seek more control over how their products are displayed and sold, they may be able to exercise their power more in the future — especially in the electrical devices marketplace — by favoriting only sites that meet their requirements.
From omnichannel to omnibrand Retails who approach the experience from a tech-favorable mindset that works seamlessly across channels will likely outpace the competition, as they’ll be empowering shoppers to shop when, where, and how they want. This does require some investment in tech and logistics, so smaller online retailers may struggle to scale up their operations and meet this growing demand.
Increased Mobile Sales As smartphones with larger screens become the norm, we can continue to see more and more shoppers using mobile devices for e-commerce transactions. Retailers who optimize their websites and processes with a mobile-first mentality will best capitalize on these shifts in buying habits.
What else does this mean for mobile commerce?
Using geolocation Looking ahead, it’s likely that geolocation will be leveraged by retailers looking to deliver contextual marketing to customers. The adaptation period for hyperlocal commerce may be slow, and retailers must use this data responsibly without overstepping the bounds of privacy. However, used conservatively, this type of data can help shoppers get the best possible deals nearby — and creates opportunities for customer engagement on a whole new level.
More mobile payments Mobile payment will most likely be mainstream by 2026 but will have evolved thanks to improvements in tech. This means most payment formats across the board may shift to be more device-based rather than depend on physical cards. Cash will not be eradicated, but will likely be used in much lower frequency.
Mobile loyalty programs With mobile-enabled loyalty programs, interactivity and engagement can be optimized in ways that traditional methods have not been able to master. This will empower consumers to load multiple digital reward cards into a mobile wallet, which can then tie into game-like elements that boost use amongst shoppers.
Mobile advertising Mobile advertising will continue on an upward trajectory — and spending will most certainly increase within this medium. However, native applications will likely be replaced by more intuitive approaches that help retailers select the most relevant channel to accomplish advertising goals.
Future Technologies By 2026, we’ll likely live in a hyper-connected world, with more than 660 million machine-to-machine connections around the world. These connections will make retail more efficient and effective, and will also make advertising more targeted and personalized than ever before.
Here are some specific ways technology may impact e-commerce:
The Internet of Things (IoT) If IoT payment and commerce applications don’t have a hyper-relevant purpose for the consumer, they’re likely to be seen as gimmicks — and because of this — Ovum remains skeptical about their use and adoption on a mass-scale. Over-connectivity could cause frustration for shoppers who feel a lack of control over their environment.
Wearable Tech Wearables may be a solid source of detailed data — which enables more accurate advertising through mobile mediums. However, privacy infringement will be a major concern for shoppers — so retailers will have to walk a fine line when targeting consumers via wearable tech.
Augmented reality
Augmented reality (AR) will likely have the most impact on the e-commerce retail experience, as it allows merchants to showcase enhanced information or graphics that blur the lines between physical and digital worlds. Keep in mind that AR is different from virtual reality, which is a fully immersive experience. AR will help enhance the experience by allowing shoppers to view products in their homes, which can then immediately be purchased.
Preparing for the Future of E-Commerce: Final Tips
With all of these insights for the future of e-commerce, there are a few key things you need to keep in mind as you prepare for the world ahead:
Be flexible, train often.
E-commerce retailers will have to be flexible and accommodate the many changes ahead. This process is made easier through constant learning, training, and innovation — so it’s essential to embrace a bit of a learning curve.
Leverage segmentation.
By 2026, segmentation may no longer be appropriate for consumers who move seamlessly between segments. Instead, more advanced, creative models will be needed that embrace this fluidity while still delivering relevant, personalized experiences.
Know the limits of personalization.
Go too far with personalization in the future, and you might ruin your profit margins. Keep in mind that cost-efficiency and scalability can be destroyed when you try to create a product that’s too personalized. Retailers will need to strike a balance between personalization and mass production.
Study your shoppers.
Online retailers that will succeed in the future are the ones who know and understand their customers — from marketing preferences to buying habits and beyond. Use analytics to study and deeply understand what your shoppers need and want from you.
Refine your brand. Finally, there’s the element of branding. Knowing who you are and what you represent as a brand will help you establish a unique, memorable angle within this evolving marketplace. Strive to constantly refine your branding elements, and you’ll maintain a lasting, relevant impression in a hectic online market.
2026 is a long time from now, but that’s no reason to put off your preparation. Get a head start with your plans for the future, and think about what you’ll do to stand out against your competition.
So, you're thinking about selling online—maybe you're a small shop with a few products, or perhaps you’re managing a larger operation with thousands of SKUs. Either way, taking your store online is one of the most exciting and rewarding steps you can take in today’s market. The opportunities are endless, but so are the challenges, especially if you're new to e-commerce or looking to grow fast. That's where we come in. At VIV, we specialize in helping businesses of all sizes launch and scale their online stores. Whether you're just starting out or you’re ready to manage tens of thousands of SKUs, VIV can guide you every step of the way. Let’s dive into what selling online could look like for you and how we can make it happen! Why Every Retailer Should Consider Selling Online There’s no denying it: shopping online has become the norm. Customers want convenience, and businesses that adapt quickly can capitalize on this huge shift. Here are a few reasons why selling online is essential: Reach Customers Anytime, Anywhere: No longer are you restricted by store hours or location. With an online store, you can make sales 24/7, and reach customers all over the world if you choose. Adaptability: With online sales, you can respond faster to market demands, introduce new products quickly, and pivot your offerings to match trends and customer preferences. Data-Driven Growth: Unlike traditional retail, online sales give you direct access to customer data and insights. This data can drive everything from marketing strategies to inventory decisions. So, whether you’re a boutique owner or managing a larger retail chain, there’s no question that going online can take your business to new heights. And at VIV, we’re here to make sure that transition is as seamless as possible. How to Get Started: Choosing the Right E-Commerce Platform Starting an online store begins with choosing the right platform. Maybe you’re new to e-commerce or feeling a bit overwhelmed by all the options. From Shopify to WooCommerce, each platform has its own strengths. But here’s the thing: we’ll help you choose the best fit based on your unique needs. For Small Stores: If you’re a boutique or local shop with a smaller inventory, we can set you up with a platform that’s affordable, easy to use, and fully customizable. For Expanding Businesses: For those ready to scale, we offer solutions that can support tens of thousands of SKUs with robust features like inventory management, customer insights, and advanced analytics. Our team at VIV not only helps you pick the right platform but also ensures your store is optimized to grow alongside your business. Building Your Store: How VIV Helps You Stand Out You want an online store that’s not only functional but also visually appealing and user-friendly. With VIV, you get a design that reflects your brand and draws in your customers. Here’s a look at what we do: Custom Design that Speaks Your Brand’s Language: Your store should feel like an extension of your physical space—or, if you’re online-only, like a cohesive and inviting experience. We’ll work with you to create a layout and design that customers will love and remember. Mobile Optimization: A huge portion of online shopping happens on mobile devices. Our team ensures that your site looks amazing and performs perfectly, no matter the device. Smooth Customer Experience (CX): Nobody likes a clunky shopping experience. We design your site with the customer journey in mind, from smooth navigation to quick-loading pages and hassle-free checkout. And don’t worry about all those tech details—we handle that so you can focus on running your business. Managing Inventory and Orders (Yes, Even with Thousands of Products) Inventory management can get tricky as you grow, especially if you have a lot of SKUs. We get it; keeping track of stock levels, updating product details, and managing orders can be a lot. But with VIV, it doesn’t have to be. Integrated Inventory Systems: We connect your online store with advanced inventory management systems, so your stock levels are always accurate. Automated Product Updates: Have hundreds or even thousands of products? We can set up systems to automate updates, saving you time and minimizing errors. Seamless Order Management: From cart to doorstep, we streamline the order process to keep things running smoothly. With VIV, managing even the most complex inventories becomes effortless, giving you more time to focus on growing your business. Growing Your Sales with Smart Marketing Strategies Launching an online store is only the beginning—you want people to find it, right? VIV doesn’t just help you build a store; we also offer marketing strategies tailored to drive traffic and boost sales. SEO Optimization: We optimize every page of your site to improve search rankings and get you seen by more potential customers. Social Media Integration: Reaching people where they already spend time online is key. We’ll help you connect your store with social platforms to maximize reach and engagement. Email Marketing: Keep customers coming back with automated email campaigns that highlight new arrivals, special promotions, and more. With VIV’s marketing expertise, your store will stay top-of-mind for customers, driving both new and repeat sales. Scaling Up: Moving from a Small Store to a Retail Powerhouse Many small businesses start with a modest inventory, but with the right tools and strategies, there’s no limit to how big your online store can grow. When you’re ready to scale, VIV has the resources to take you from a few products to tens of thousands without skipping a beat. Advanced Platform Upgrades: As you grow, we can integrate your store with enterprise-level platforms that support high-volume sales and complex product catalogs. Streamlined Operations: From automating product updates to optimizing customer service, we’ll help you scale without the growing pains. Ongoing Support and Optimization: Our team doesn’t just build your store and walk away. We provide continuous support to fine-tune and improve your e-commerce site as your business grows. Whether you’re aiming to become a well-known brand or simply want to make online shopping easy for your local customers, VIV can help you scale smoothly and sustainably. Partnering with VIV: A Customized, Stress-Free E-Commerce Solution Let’s face it—building and running an online store is a lot of work, especially if you’re managing it all on your own. With VIV, you don’t have to. We offer a comprehensive suite of services to make your e-commerce journey easier: Personalized Consulting: We take the time to understand your business and goals to build a store that’s a perfect fit for you. All-in-One Service Package: From web design and platform selection to inventory management and marketing, we handle it all. You get a one-stop solution for everything e-commerce. Ongoing Support and Growth: Launching your store is just the beginning. We’re here to support you as you grow, offering ongoing optimization and marketing strategies to keep sales strong. With VIV by your side, you’re not just setting up a store—you’re setting up a foundation for success. Ready to Take the Leap? If you’re ready to go from brick-and-mortar or boutique online to a full-scale e-commerce operation, VIV can help. We’ve supported countless businesses in launching, growing, and scaling their online stores with success. And we’d love to help you do the same. Whether you’re selling just a few unique items or managing a massive inventory, VIV’s expertise and tailored solutions can make selling online both easy and profitable. Get in touch with us today at builtbyviv.com to learn more about how we can turn your e-commerce dreams into reality. Let’s Build Your Online Store Together Launching an online store is a big step, but you don’t have to do it alone. At VIV, we’re passionate about helping businesses like yours succeed in the online world. From strategy to design, inventory to marketing, our team has got you covered every step of the way. Let's build something great together—one sale at a time. Ready to get started? Reach out to us at builtbyviv.com and let’s make your e-commerce journey a success story.
In today’s digital world, your website is often the first interaction potential customers have with your restaurant. A thoughtfully designed, visually appealing, and user-friendly website can not only create a positive first impression but also drive more foot traffic and online orders. An effective website provides a seamless online experience, building trust and excitement that ultimately converts website visitors into loyal customers. VIV, a leader in website design and online ordering solutions, works closely with restaurant owners to create customized sites that meet modern demands and enhance the customer journey. In this post, we’ll dive into how a well-designed website can increase foot traffic, boost online orders, and provide long-term benefits for your restaurant. Why Your Restaurant Needs a Well-Designed Website First Impressions Count Your website is the digital face of your restaurant, and a well-designed site can make a powerful first impression. Imagine a potential customer searching for a restaurant in your area and landing on your website. A clean, easy-to-navigate website with stunning visuals, engaging content, and essential information can make the difference between a new customer and a missed opportunity. VIV’s website design services focus on creating visually appealing websites that convey the essence of your restaurant’s unique personality and quality. Increased Visibility Through SEO Search engine optimization (SEO) is essential for helping your restaurant appear in relevant search results. An optimized website that includes relevant keywords, mobile responsiveness, and local SEO strategies can rank higher in search engine results, making it easier for potential customers to find you. VIV incorporates SEO best practices into every website design, ensuring that your restaurant is visible to local customers who are searching for a great dining experience. Showcase Your Menu and Atmosphere High-quality visuals and an interactive layout allow customers to experience a bit of your restaurant online before they ever step inside. By showcasing your menu, ambiance, and unique offerings, you can entice customers and build excitement for their visit. VIV’s design team works with you to bring your restaurant’s atmosphere to life online, using engaging content and stunning visuals that invite customers to see, read, and ultimately visit. Enable Online Reservations and Ordering Providing online reservation and ordering options adds convenience for customers, making it easier for them to engage with your restaurant. An online reservation system allows customers to plan ahead and secures their spot, while an online ordering feature lets them enjoy your menu from home. VIV’s integrated systems ensure that online reservations and ordering are easy to use and seamlessly align with your website’s design, enhancing the user experience and encouraging engagement. The Power of a Well-Designed Website in Driving Foot Traffic Optimizing for Local SEO Local SEO is key to increasing foot traffic for your restaurant. By optimizing your website with local keywords, integrating Google Maps, and featuring contact information prominently, you make it easier for nearby customers to find you. VIV’s SEO services include local SEO techniques that help your restaurant rank in local search results, ensuring that people in your area can easily discover your location. Creating Clear Calls-to-Action (CTAs) A well-placed, clear call-to-action can guide users toward specific actions, such as visiting your restaurant, booking a table, or placing an online order. CTAs like “Book a Table Now” or “Order Online” act as friendly nudges that make it easier for customers to choose you. VIV crafts effective CTAs that align with your brand’s voice and gently encourage website visitors to take the next step, whether it’s visiting in person or ordering online. Building Trust Through Testimonials and Reviews Potential customers are more likely to visit your restaurant if they see positive reviews and testimonials from others. Displaying customer feedback on your website not only builds credibility but also enhances local SEO. VIV integrates testimonials and review sections into your website, so potential customers can see positive experiences and feel reassured about choosing your restaurant. VIV’s Approach to Designing Effective Restaurant Websites VIV understands that every restaurant is unique, and they approach each project with a commitment to creating a custom website that reflects your brand, meets your goals, and drives tangible results. Here’s how VIV helps you create a website that serves as an effective extension of your restaurant: Brand-Driven Custom Web Design Your restaurant’s brand should shine through on your website, and VIV’s design team works closely with you to bring that vision to life. From color schemes and typography to layout and imagery, every element of your website is customized to align with your brand identity. A well-branded website reinforces your restaurant’s personality and leaves a lasting impression on visitors, making them more likely to choose your establishment. Mobile Optimization for Easy Access With the majority of online searches happening on mobile devices, having a mobile-friendly website is essential. VIV ensures that your website performs seamlessly on smartphones and tablets, so customers can easily find you and explore your menu while on the go. Mobile optimization improves user experience, which can lead to higher foot traffic and more online orders. SEO Strategy Tailored to Local and Restaurant-Specific Needs VIV integrates a comprehensive SEO strategy that includes on-page and local SEO, making it easier for your restaurant to rank for relevant keywords. By focusing on local search terms and industry-specific language, VIV helps increase your visibility in search results, attracting more organic traffic from potential customers in your area. Seamless Online Ordering Integration Online ordering has become a necessity for restaurants, and VIV offers a user-friendly ordering system that integrates directly into your website. This feature simplifies the process for customers, allowing them to place orders without leaving your site. With an integrated online ordering system, you maintain control over the ordering experience, build stronger customer relationships, and avoid high fees from third-party platforms. Key Features of a High-Impact Restaurant Website Stunning Visual Content High-quality images and videos can capture the essence of your restaurant and entice customers to visit. From photos of signature dishes to videos showcasing your ambiance, visual content is a powerful tool. VIV works with you to select or create images that bring your brand to life, enhancing the appeal of your website. Easy-to-Navigate Menu Pages The online menu is one of the most important sections on a restaurant’s website. VIV creates menu pages that are easy to read, interactive, and aesthetically pleasing, allowing customers to view item descriptions, prices, and dietary options effortlessly. A well-structured menu page enhances user experience and makes it easier for customers to make dining decisions. Real-Time Online Ordering and Reservation System With VIV’s real-time ordering and reservation system, customers can place orders and make reservations at their convenience. This feature is designed to handle peak traffic, ensuring smooth transactions even during busy times. Integrated payment options simplify the checkout process, creating a hassle-free experience that encourages repeat orders. Integrated Contact Information and Maps Making it easy for customers to contact or locate your restaurant is essential. VIV includes clear contact information and an embedded Google Map on your website, so customers can find you with ease. This user-friendly feature drives more in-person visits and makes a positive impact on local SEO. Customer Feedback and Loyalty Programs Displaying customer feedback and offering loyalty programs can encourage repeat visits and build trust. VIV can integrate a feedback section or loyalty program on your website, encouraging customers to share their experiences and come back for more. How a Well-Designed Website Boosts Online Orders Offering Direct Online Ordering Online ordering directly through your website keeps more profits in-house, reducing dependency on third-party delivery apps. VIV’s ordering system allows you to control the customer experience, manage your menu in real-time, and monitor order trends, providing valuable insights into customer preferences and sales performance. Promotions and Special Offers Highlighting limited-time promotions and special offers directly on your website can drive more online orders. VIV can help you create pop-ups or banners to showcase discounts, seasonal items, and exclusive deals, giving customers a reason to place their order. Personalized Customer Experience A customized website provides a unique experience tailored to your brand, allowing customers to feel connected and valued. VIV designs every element of your website with your customers in mind, creating a digital environment that makes customers more likely to visit again. The VIV Advantage for Restaurant Websites VIV is dedicated to creating websites that deliver results for restaurants. By focusing on enhancing the customer journey, they go beyond design to offer integrated tools for online ordering and reservations. With VIV’s experience in the restaurant industry, they understand the importance of a website that not only looks great but also functions smoothly and drives real results. Conclusion For restaurants looking to increase foot traffic and online orders, a professionally designed website is a must. By investing in a website that is both beautiful and functional, you’ll create a seamless online experience that attracts customers, showcases your brand, and encourages both in-person visits and online orders. VIV offers a complete solution for restaurants, from customized web design to integrated online ordering, ensuring your website reflects your brand’s quality and meets the expectations of today’s customers. For more information on how VIV can transform your restaurant’s online presence, visit our online ordering page .
VIV, a leading B2B SaaS marketing & technology group, is proud to announce its inclusion in the 2024 Inc. 5000 list. VIV ranked in the top 31%, placing 1,556th out of 5,000 of America’s fastest-growing private companies. This list, which has previously featured household names like Microsoft and Intuit, represents a unique look at the most successful companies within the American economy’s most dynamic segment—its independent businesses.
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In today's digital age, having a solid online presence is vital for the success of small businesses. A well-designed, user-friendly website helps you attract and engage potential customers and plays a crucial role in search engine optimization (SEO). In 2023, with evolving technology and changing consumer preferences, updating your website is more important than ever. In this article, we'll explore why small businesses must prioritize website updates this year to stay competitive and maximize their SEO efforts. Enhance User Experience: User experience (UX) is critical to website performance and SEO. As search engines become more sophisticated, they prioritize websites that provide excellent user experiences. Updating your website can improve navigation, load times, and mobile responsiveness, creating a seamless and enjoyable experience for your visitors. A positive UX will result in longer visit durations, lower bounce rates, and increased chances of conversion, all of which contribute to improved search engine rankings. Stay Ahead of Design Trends: Website design trends evolve rapidly, and outdated websites can appear unprofessional and drive potential customers away. Upgrading your website's design in 2023 allows you to incorporate the latest visual elements, modern layouts, and engaging multimedia content that captivate your target audience. A visually appealing and contemporary website reflects positively on your brand, increasing customer trust and credibility and ultimately improving your SEO efforts. Optimize for Mobile: Mobile internet usage has been steadily increasing, and search engines now prioritize mobile-friendly websites in their search results. Ensuring your website is optimized for mobile devices is crucial for SEO success in 2023. Responsive design, fast loading speeds, and easy navigation on smartphones and tablets will improve user experience and increase your website's visibility on search engine result pages (SERPs). By updating your website to be mobile-friendly, you can tap into a wider audience and boost your SEO rankings. Leverage Voice Search Optimization: The rise of voice-activated devices and virtual assistants has significantly impacted search behavior. More users are turning to voice search to find information, products, and services. To stay competitive, small businesses must optimize their websites for voice search in 2023. Upgrading your website to include conversational and natural language keywords, structured data markup, and concise, informative content tailored to voice queries will help you rank higher in voice search results, leading to increased organic traffic and visibility. Implement Structured Data Markup: Structured data markup, or schema markup, provides search engines with additional context about your website's content. By incorporating schema markup into your updated website, you can enhance search engine understanding, increase visibility in rich snippets, and improve click-through rates. Structured data can highlight key information such as product details, business hours, reviews, and events, making your website more informative and enticing for users and search engines. In 2023, updating your small business website is essential for maintaining a competitive edge and optimizing your SEO efforts. By enhancing user experience, adopting modern design trends, optimizing for mobile devices and voice search, and implementing structured data markup, you can position your website for success. Embrace the evolving digital landscape, cater to changing consumer preferences, and watch your website rise in search engine rankings, driving organic traffic and boosting your small business's growth and profitability.
We want to talk to you about the latest update to Google's core algorithm, which was released in March 2023. This update has significantly impacted how search results are displayed, and many websites have seen changes in their rankings.
Companies on the 2023 Inc. 5000 Regionals: Midwest list had an average growth rate of 535 percent.
The holiday season is coming fast! This time of year is crucial time for businesses of all sizes. Now is when people are spending the most money, both in person and online. This is the perfect time to start an advertising campaign. However, with so many businesses competing for attention, how can you make sure that your advertising stands out? The key is creating a holiday ad strategy—and to get started early. Whether you’re a brick-and-mortar store looking to drive traffic to your physical location or an online store trying to increase sales, you can do a lot to optimize your advertising strategy to make the most of the holiday season. Specify Audience and Budget Before you start developing an ad strategy, think about who you want to reach—and the budget you can afford to help you achieve your desired results. We can’t stress enough how important it is to know your audience. Knowing your audience will help you create a message that will resonate with them. Are you targeting families? Businesses? Kids? Adults? Each group will respond differently to different messaging, so it’s essential to tailor your approach accordingly. Once you have a good understanding of your audience, you can allocate your budget accordingly. Make sure you’re not spreading yourself too thin by doing too many things at once—focus on a few key areas and do them well. What Ad Platform to Use? During the holiday shopping season, consumers look for inspiration on social media. That’s why social networks like Facebook and Instagram are fantastic tools for reaching new audiences during the holidays (and beyond). You might already post on your business pages on social media, but using paid ads on these platforms lets you reach even more people. Running ads on Facebook and Instagram is an excellent option because their targeting software is better than most ad platforms. You can target consumers based on interests, behaviors, demographics, age, connections, locations, or languages. You can even target your competitors’ followers. Let’s dive into the three pillars of an effective advertising strategy: audience building, engagement, and conversions. To make sure people buy from you, you need them to learn about and interact with your brand. Only then will they buy something from you. The strategy below will help you create three types of ads to run before and during the holiday season to increase your sales—and reduce ad costs. Step 1: Build Your Audience Audience building is extremely important for running a successful ad campaign. If people don’t know anything about your brand, it’s much harder to persuade them to buy from you. If you’re asking somebody to buy from you before they know anything about you (unless you sell an impulsive kind of product), you’re going to pay a really expensive cost per conversion. So first, you want to run ads that are specifically designed to bring new people into your ecosystem and get them to know your brand. These ads are not the ones that will bring you sales right away. Instead, they will get you new followers for your social media accounts. They will become your customers later, when they know about you and are accustomed to your brand. To build an audience, create ads that introduce your business to new people. These can be videos telling the story behind your brand, or behind the scenes showing how you make your product.
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