eCommerce Checklist

Here are essential things you will need to understand when building an e-commerce site.

1. SSL encryption certificate. In order to accept credit cards online you will need to create a secure encrypted page and purchase an SSL certificate from VeriSign or another trusted authority. Typically there is a fee for purchase and installation of this certificate. Traditionally this was very expensive, but there are now cheaper alternatives and options. This certificate will need to be renewed every two years.
2. A bank account with Internet Merchant Facility.
   Many clients have electronic terminals and the ability to use electronic transfers already (eg; EFTPOS), but in most cases you will need to speak to your bank about setting up a Merchant facility specifically enabled for Internet transactions. Depending upon your bank's particular internal procedures this process can take a long time. We suggest you initiate this process well in advance of engaging the web designers and programmers and try to push your bank for dates. When approved, you will receive a new Merchant ID and a Terminal ID, which is provided to the authority charged with validating transactions*.
3. Transaction Payment Gateway
   Your internet enabled merchant account (above) is for receiving payments. Online ecommerce transactions require a method of validation.* A further banking service is required which is offered by some banks as an extension of your Merchant facility or more commonly is offered by third party providers (eg; eway.com.au). A setup fee may apply and transaction fees also apply.
4. Policies and Procedures
   An e-commerce site usually requires your company to state certain policies on the website. You will need to define, write, or adapt a policy for returns, privacy, cookie usage, order status, checking procedure, and out of stock terms. These policies may need to be approved by your legal advisers.