One of the major benefits of SaaS ecommerce platforms like BigCommerce is the flexibility to extend core functionality through integrations. By tapping into a robust ecosystem of over 500 apps, merchants gain access to specialized capabilities to further optimize and enhance their stores.
However, the sheer number of choices can overwhelm merchants. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore how BigCommerce apps work, provide guidance on matching apps to needs, outline the top app categories, review some of the most popular solutions, and provide best practices for successful app adoption.
How Do Apps Integrate with BigCommerce?
The open SaaS architecture of BigCommerce allows BigCommerce developers to build applications that integrate with store data and infrastructure through advanced APIs. Merchants can browse apps directly from their BigCommerce control panel and install chosen solutions with just a few clicks.
Apps differ across integration depth, pricing models and functionality:
- Integration Depth: Some apps provide deep integration to core systems while others offer lightweight connections.
- Pricing Models: Options range from free to monthly subscriptions to fit different budget needs.
- Functionality: Apps span simple single-purpose tools to sophisticated suites merging dozens of tools.
Best Practices for Selecting Apps
With over 500 apps to evaluate, merchants should adhere to disciplined practices to identify and deploy the best solutions aligned to their strategic priorities:
- Outline Core Business Objectives – Document the key outcomes you’re aiming for to guide app selection.
- Research Related Apps – Consult app directories and reviews to create a shortlist of promising contenders.
- Request Demos – Take top contenders for a test drive to evaluate quality and fit.
- Confirm Technical Compatibility – Validate how easily each app will interface with your current BigCommerce setup.
- Calculate ROI – Estimate the direct financial return from performance gains and process improvements.
Top App Categories for Merchants
Apps span dozens of categories, but these core app types see heavy merchant demand:
- Marketing Automation – Integrate ecommerce data with email and SMS for targeted campaigns. Popular apps include Mailchimp, Klaviyo, Privy and Omnisend.
- SEO Tools – Improve site visibility through SEO auditing and optimization. Top apps are Botify, Ryviu and Moz Pro.
- Store Design Tools – Build custom storefronts without coding through drag and drop editors. Leading options are Shogun and Pixel Union.
- Business Intelligence – Connect analytics and build interactive reports for smarter decisions. Look to Glew.io and Databox.
- Customer Service – Integrate live chat and shared inboxes for instant assistance. Check out Tidio, Zendesk and Helpwise.
- Payment Solutions – Extend beyond default payment gateways for specialized cases. Top apps are Bolt, Affirm and PayPal Commerce Platform.
App Implementation Best Practices
While BigCommerce apps promise added capabilities, realizing the benefits depends on following best practices during implementation:
- Seek guidance from experts on how to smoothly install, configure and activate new apps with your existing BigCommerce setup.
- Cleanly map data flows between BigCommerce and integrated apps. Eliminate duplication and inconsistencies.
- Develop policies and document processes to govern ongoing app usage, maintenance and upgrades.
- Train staff to adopt apps into workflows through demos, job aids and incentives to drive utilization.
- Monitor app performance through defined KPIs. Tune and enhance over time to maximize impact.
The Right Solutions Partner Makes All the Difference
While apps promise added functionality, realizing the benefits requires proper vetting, integration and adoption. Merchant success depends heavily on choosing the right solutions partner to streamline efforts across app selection, technical configuration, user training, performance optimization and version upgrades.
Anchor Group provides end-to-end guidance based on deep knowledge of the leading apps and a proven track record driving app success for BigCommerce merchants. Contact us to explore which apps can best advance your strategic goals.
Also Read : https://thetubegalore.com
