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Go Beyond the Zoom

Category: Growth Hacks

Go Beyond the Zoom
Mohab Growth Hacks, Guest Posts 0

4 Ways to Add Something Extra to Your Product Visualization

While online shopping comes with the pro of being anytime, anywhere, and wearing anything (hello, 2 a.m. shopping sprees in your Ninja Turtle pajamas), it carries with it the con of not being able to see the product up close and in person. Companies often try to compensate for this by taking a handful of shots of the product from a few angles — and of course, the viewer can always zoom in.

I’ve got news: It’s time to go beyond the zoom.

Ecommerce has been trending toward more sophisticated technological adoption, and product imaging is certainly at the forefront of this movement. Having the zoom option on product images is something that has unsurprisingly been popular in online shopping since it first appeared — we all love to look at the details of a product before we buy it! Also unsurprisingly, technology has adapted quite a bit since then, and it’s time to look into new ways to give your customers the in-person experience of the product without ever having to change out of their PJs.

1. Give them the full 360-degree experience
There’s something amazing about being able to turn a product around and view it from every angle just like you would if it was right in front of you — and that’s what a 360-degree view gives your customer. It can provide a lot more detail than a still photo and descriptive text can, and is far more interactive and immersive than a slideshow from a few different angles.

The best part about this is that you probably don’t need to invest much more than you already are. If you’re doing standard photography, you likely already have a camera, tripod, and backdrop. All you need to transform your plain Jane setup to a 360-degree extravaganza is a turntable and a remote shutter release. It does take more time than a standard few shots, but the payoff can be worth it!

2. Record it in action

If you’re looking for more bang for your buck, consider shooting some videos of your product in action, preferably with someone interacting with it. If you do it right, it can act as both a video marketing tool and a product description. It doesn’t need to cost a million dollars, either; take this simple but effective video of a guy using a Kelly side table. What it lacks in budget it makes up for in humor, and comes across as more endearing and genuine than a fancy schmancy ad campaign ever could.

If you want to produce something higher-quality, try focusing on just a few products, like a new line you’re launching or your best sellers. Then you can go the route of Glory Cycles (get it?) and shoot a really nice video starring your best stuff. The best part about that promotion is how simple and well-executed it is, showing just how effective that visual experience is.

3. Artificial Reality

We’re getting into the cooler (and more expensive) stuff now. You may have heard artificial reality and virtual reality used interchangeably, but they are quite different: Artificial reality is computer-generated imagery overlaid onto the real world (think Pokemon Go). This is perfect for a lot of products, because it can literally show the customer how the product will look on them, in their home, or in their world.

Go Beyond the Zoom

Sephora is quite a pioneer in the beauty world, so it’s no surprise that it has a virtual makeup artist. Using its AR, you can try on different makeup products without ever having to put them on your face — and of course, buy what you like.

Another great application of AR comes from IKEA, which has an app that lets customers hold up their phone and see realistic images of IKEA furniture overlaid onto their room. Far from a badly photoshopped insert, the furniture is accurately placed and measured to look as realistic as possible.

4. Virtual Reality

Finally, the really high-level stuff. Virtual reality is different from artificial reality in that it is a complete view of your surroundings through some sort of lens or goggles, like the Oculus. People call it the way of the future, but it’s still got a ways to go. Due to the cost and complexity, it’s no surprise that most companies have not embraced VR, but it can still spark your creativity and make you think about applications of your products that are a little outside the box.

A few companies have taken the plunge, though. EBay launched the world’s first virtual reality department store, in which customers could view eBay products as if they were in a department store. Shopify hasn’t come out with any VR experiences as of yet, but it has heavily invested in both AR and VR, and hopes to be used in the future as a place to host virtual reality experiences. It’s likely not within reach in the very near future, but it’s an exciting space to keep your eye on.

It’s all about the experience

As technology improves, your customers will expect you to take advantage of it to provide the best online shopping experience you can. How are you wowing your customers?

About the author

Jake Rheude is the Director of Marketing for Red Stag Fulfillment, an ecommerce fulfillment warehouse that was born out of ecommerce. He has years of experience in ecommerce and business development. In his free time, Jake enjoys reading about business and sharing his own experience with others.

6 years ago
5 ways startups can accept online payments
Mohab Growth Hacks 0

5 ways startups can accept online payments

The world is becoming more digitized with every passing moment. Just as brick and mortar stores are no longer important to run a business, similarly, cash is no longer necessary to purchase goods and services. Online or digital transactions are the latest in the business world. In keeping with the times and their convenience, businesses and consumers alike are finding online payments more acceptable.

For startups, it is crucial to choose a suitable mode of online payment. This is because they need to ensure hassle-free payment solutions and at the same time, they are not in a position to incur hefty expenses related to online payments.

Keeping these factors in consideration, we have identified five best ways through which startups can accept online payments. Read on to know more.

Accepting debit/credit cards online

Accepting payments through cards on an online portal or website is the simplest way of conducting online transactions. MasterCard, Visa, and American Express are known to be the most widely accepted credit/debit cards online. More and more people now prefer to pay through credit or debit cards. It is quick, convenient and safe up to quite a degree. And saving time and effort is what makes a business profitable, isn’t it?

Payments through eChecks

An electronic check, often referred to as an eCheck, is another way of conducting online transactions. The information mentioned on the paper check (account number, name, authorization, routing, etc.) must be filled into an online payment form to process payment electronically. The advantage of paying through eChecks, apart from the fact that it is safer, is incurring a lower processing fee.

Mobile transactions

People are glued to their phones all the time, cracking deals and conducting business on the go! Technology has given us the ability to buy and sell online quite easily. Taking payments online through a mobile device has made conducting business rather easy. Use digital wallets and NFC-enabled apps for mobile payments. You are now able to manage complex accounting tasks such as managing customer accounts, sending invoices etc. through your mobile device, anywhere and anytime.

Payment gateways

Businesses can add a payment gateway on to their website. Through its aid, buyers can now easily make a direct payment to the company from their website. The intuitive interface allows hassle-free payments. Moreover, the payment processor saves customer information for quick and secure payments when the customer comes back for the next purchase.

Additionally, online payment gateways provide a myriad of options to add to the convenience that they already provide. For instance, recurring payments related to subscriptions can be paid automatically at periodic intervals as directed.

Businesses can also hire a service provider to manage their payment gateway, ensuring security and privacy of customer information. These service providers take care of hosting online payment forms, processing of payments and securing accounts of the customers.

Payments through email

Some businesses choose to send the customer’s invoice to their email with a click-to-pay option. This method ensures a speedy transaction. With just a few clicks, the customer is able to make a payment, making it easier for both the customers and the business entity. Additionally, as people become more aware of the environmental consequences of paper transactions, digital transactions are getting a much-awaited boost.

Give wings to your startup

With the advent of technology and the ease with which business is now being conducted, competition is intense. It is necessary for a business to ensure that its clients receive the best experience. By providing multiple online payment options, conducting business becomes simpler and more satisfying on both ends. The business is able to manage its accounts better and in a more automated way, while the ease of online transactions ensures better customer satisfaction.

6 years ago
Cross-border e-commerce trends that you just cannot ignore
Mohab Growth Hacks 0

Cross-border e-commerce trends that you just cannot ignore

E-commerce is a rapidly evolving area and it can be a daunting task trying to keep up with the trends. With the advent of technology, some of the ways in which we meet our basic needs have undergone a tremendous change. Online retailing is one such major gift.

As more and more people have begun to prefer e-commerce, it is becoming essential to adapt accordingly for the businesses to keep growing. Brick and mortar stores are no longer the preferred choice, as many brands and companies have begun to adopt e-commerce instead.

And the e-commerce market is not confined to a specific location, like a particular country, but has a worldwide presence. In keeping with the times, it has become vital for businesses to keep up with cross-border e-commerce trends, not only to sustain but to grow.

Access to the web

Everyone you meet, every person that you know and even people on the street, everyone owns a smartphone. As internet literacy grows, people find themselves with easier access to businesses around the world. This is a great time for businesses to expand into the e-commerce world and cash in on the general global trend of growth in internet usage.

Global becomes local

With the mammoth growth in internet marketing, more and more businesses are joining in the e-commerce world. People now have access to global stores right from their screens. Products are available from anywhere in the world and can be sent to anywhere. The need to travel distances to make specific purchases is long gone. The businesses that have made themselves available globally have seen massive growth and have managed to take over the cross-border e-commerce industry.

Ease of access

For the growth of any e-commerce undertaking, it is essential for the business to make itself as easily accessible as can be. With monetary transactions being a major concern for prospective buyers, providing secure and simple payment options is vital. There is a myriad of online payment platforms available that provide complete security and good services. Making the process of purchase simple is a great way to grow in the e-commerce industry.

Competitive prices

One of the most significant ways to make the consumers happy is to give them the best rates for your products or services. With e-commerce, it is all the more essential to keep on top of the competition at all times. With consumers having so much access to so many businesses, without having to physically go and find the best bargain, showing them that you offer the best product at the least price is vital. It is very important to change online prices according to the changes in currency as well.

Understanding the local consumer

When setting up a cross-border e-commerce business, it is essential to understand the customs and traditions of the local people. A smart study of the local market and its trends can help a business brings forth products and offers that the local majority cannot refuse. Catering to the needs of the local consumer in the best way possible is the only real means of survival when it comes to cross-border e-commerce.

Customer support and services

When competing in an e-commerce setting, it is wise to create an easily accessible customer support system. For international customers to feel safe and satisfied, around-the-clock consumer support system is a good idea. Auxiliary services not only keep the current consumer happy but also help bring in new business through word of mouth and internet reviews.

The Bottom Line

E-commerce is exploding and with it comes a great opportunity for local businesses to go global. By providing a great product, and a reliable payment gateway and customer support system, any business can establish a global presence in a short duration. However, as easy as that might sound, it is exceptionally important for businesses to stay on top of their game by adopting best business practices.

6 years ago
5 Common Myths about Merchant Accounts Processing That Can Lead You Astray
Mohab Growth Hacks 0

5 Common Myths about Merchant Accounts Processing That Can Lead You Astray

When the matter is about monetary transactions on your e-store, suspicion is always there. After all, you are bestowing someone else with the responsibility of handling your customers’ money. Then there are concerns whether transactions are secured against fraudulent attempts or not?

Various myths regarding merchant accounts processing have been circulating in the merchant community. If you are planning to open a merchant account with a payment solutions company, you should know about the common myths that may negatively influence your decision. Let us take a look at them.

All Payment Processing Operators Are Scammers

There are many credible service providers who provide quality services. Their terms of service will be crystal clear. Moreover, they will not have long-term contracts that will unnecessarily bind the merchant for a long tenure. They will let you know about all type of charges beforehand.

The Biggest Is the Most Trustable

You must have heard about the established online payment platforms that are visible everywhere – in search engine ads, on social media, and in renowned blogs. Even some of your merchant friends must have told you about them. But guess what, the biggest is not always the best. There are other service providers who may offer better services at affordable prices.

The lesser-known merchant account processors are more committed to providing personalized solutions to the merchants. They may have a secure procedure for processing payments, may provide services at the best rates, may have better enterprise-level hardware and software, and may take less time to initialize the setup. So yes, you should be willing to consider payment service providers who haven’t made it big yet.

Processing Charges Are Too High

Most of the times, merchants are not aware of the processing charges. Moreover, they assume them to be very high, based on rumors. But this is not true. Depending on the business turnover, you can decide to opt for payment processing services. If you have a massive turnover, it is advisable to opt for a merchant account with a unique merchant number. If you are a small business merchant, opt for a payment service provider that enrolls you in a shared merchant account setup.

Yes, there are charges associated with merchant account service providers such as termination fees, interchange-plus or flat rates, retail rates, monthly charges, and so on. But if you consider your transaction volume, the charges may not be that much. However, discuss with the service provider before finalizing the contract.

They Are All the Same

No, they are not. There are three types of payment processing companies – merchant account providers, payment service providers, and payment gateway providers. The merchant account provider is basically concerned with providing a merchant account and it may also provide payment processing service with the assistance of a third-party processor. The payment service provider does not offer a dedicated merchant account. Instead, it clubs your business with other businesses on a single merchant account.

The last one, payment gateway providers may either provide both merchant account and payment processing or provide only payment processing service. As you can see, they are not at all the same.

Not Better Than Local Banks

Banks do not offer reliable merchant account services, which are necessary to operate a business seamlessly. They will not provide you with the freedom to collect payments via various means, the hardware and software may not match the industry standards, and there is no reliability when it comes to backend support. Processing charges might be low but services are not always up to the mark.

Conclusion

You should not be guided by myths and rumors. Get hold of the facts before making your decision. This was our attempt to clarify some doubts so that merchants like you can make decisions that are beneficial for their business.

6 years ago
Why Do Refunds Take So Long?
Mohab Growth Hacks 0

Why Do Refunds Take So Long?

Online transactions have made life quite easy. We transfer funds, buy things and pay for them, receive payments, and all of this with the simple click of a button. Cash is rarely required anywhere. Online or cashless payments have become quite ordinary. The only time that online transactions frustrate us is when our money gets stuck! But like most out of the ordinary things, we must regard it as an exception.

Most online portals have simple refund policies. The process of raising a refund request is quite convenient; however, there are instances when the process is delayed due to some reason. In order to better understand this process, let us look at detailed insights.

When does the need for a refund arise?

  • When you make an online purchase and pay through your card but later decide to cancel or return the ordered item
  • When you are in the middle of making an online payment and you lose network connectivity

Why do payments fail?

  • Failure in communication – At some point in the payment making process, if there is a failure in communication after the customer has been charged, the customer can ask for a refund. This usually occurs in most cases due to network or connectivity issues and is a rather common occurrence.
  • Failure in a status update – Another reason for the failure of payments is the status of payment not getting updated. In such a case, even though the payment has been deducted, one or more of the banks involved fail to update the status. Since the payment gateway has no information, no information is available to the buyer or seller.

Why getting refunds takes time?

Firstly, the merchant usually needs a certain amount of time to determine whether the request for refund is legitimate or not. In cases where goods are returned, the merchant would like to make sure that the goods have not been damaged by the other party.

Secondly, the banks have a vested interest in keeping your money with them for as long as it is legally possible as they make interest off of that money. That is part of the reason why the bank charges your account immediately while delaying the refund to your account. In these cases, the merchant is able to provide the customer with an authorization code that can be used to hasten the refund process with the bank.

Thirdly, refunds take time because there are multiple online payment platforms involved. The process of authorization can be quite cumbersome. A slight delay at any stage further delays the entire process. To explain the refund process further, let’s take an example.

A customer raises the request for a refund. This request will be made to the payment gateway involved. The payment gateway then sends a request to the acquiring bank with which the merchant has an account. After the necessary approvals, the acquiring bank raises a request with the customer’s issuing bank. The entire process of authorization and re-authorization, despite the fact that no actual money is transacted, is a tedious one.

The bottom line

It is important to maintain your calm and understand how the process of refunds works. The movement of money in an online transaction, while faster, is sometimes hindered due to the complexity of the process. The entire process of online payments is monitored by the online payment gateway, the issuing bank, and the acquiring bank.

It is really up to the banks to approve and reflect the balance in their respective accounts. While no money is actually moving, the coordination between the two banks and the gateway determines the amount of time that the entire transaction takes.

6 years ago