E-Commerce Site Checklist
E-commerce and user experience consultant Carlos Manalo, who has worked with Crateandbarrel.com, CB2.com and Landsend.com, offers the following outline for setting up an e-commerce site:

1. Create an Online Plan
* Assess the opportunity and check out the competition
* Define vision and metrics of success
* Figure out the cost of doing business online
* Determine tasks and staffing needs

2. Establish your Merchandising Approach
* Inventory
* Merchandising focus
* Promotions plan
* Merchandising calendar
* Integrate across channels

3. Figure out the Moving Pieces: Logistics, Shipping, Fulfillment, Customer Service
* Set up a merchant account; establish payment method(s)
* Determine shipping options and policies
* Think about how you want to fulfill orders — in house or outsource
* Establish customer service policies and get toll-free number and email address

4. Select the Right Technologies
* Domain name
* Hosting service
* E-mail/list management
* E-commerce engine/platform/storefront
* Analytics & reporting tool

5. Develop the Web site
* Product photography
* Product copy
* Product tagging/attributes
* Site design
* Site search
* Online marketing program covering SEO, SEM, viral campaigns, online affiliations and public relations as well as online advertising.

6. Be Ready to Adjust