Techlive approached KhooSeller as they wanted to have a secure platform with bespoke UK software. They had a website design that they liked, but they had lost confidence in their existing provider.

KhooSeller has its own design team,  KhooDesign, who are skilled in not only creating responsive, engaging websites, but can improve an existing design to ensure greater engagement.

Techlive worked closely with our Creative Director, Emma Simpson, to create that was similar to Techlive's site, but improved typography, layout, image placement, calls to action and user-experience.

Due to our bespoke software and automatic updates Techlive could rest assured that the site would not be compromised. Working with the leaders in the hospitality industry Techlive wanted to work with a UK based company that were available at the end of a phone or email. Knowing that KhooSeller place customer service as a priority meant that they felt confident in using us.

Techlive were delighted with the end result as the design improved usability and engagement.

If you would like help with your website please get in touch.

Airtime wanted to have a secure platform with bespoke software to host their website, but wanted to keep the overall design of their site. They chose KhooSeller because we were UK based, had a highly experienced design team, and offered outstanding support

Our design team, at KhooDesign, worked with the company to create a site that mirrored Airtime's existing website. However, subtle changes were made to the typography and the layout to ensure that the site gave a better user-experience.

Due to our bespoke software and automatic updates AirTime could rest assured that the site would not be compromised. Being leaders in their field they wanted to ensure that the site was monitored 24/7 and that we would be on hand to help with any changes that they wished to make.

Airtime were very pleased with the end result and following training have continued to keep the site current and engaging.

Harry Hodson, owner of London Pet Cremations, explained to us some of the horrifying practices that Londoners were experiencing when having their pet cremated. Animals were being cremated en masse, ashes were being returned in plastic shopping bags, and owners were left wondering whether it was their pet who was returned to them or not.

"It was a dreadful situation," said Harry, "and upset me terribly. As a lover of animals, and the owner of a personalised pet cremation service, I couldn't understand how anyone, or group, could be so callous with a beloved member of the family.".

"I determined then that we would provide pet owners in London with a door to door service to ensure that their pet had the best possible care as they took their last journey and would experience an individual cremation that was lovingly undertaken."

"It was also important too that people had the opportunity to be able to have a keepsake of their pet so that they would remember the joy that their animal brought. I wanted that to be part of the service too as a pet is such a big part of an owner's life."

We were more than happy to help Harry with the website, that works seamlessly with his bespoke booking system. As pet owners ourselves we wanted the site to reflect the care and dignity that London Pet Cremations offer, and so designed a website that was warm and friendly. We ensured that the user's journey was as simple as possible because we understand that when a pet dies it can be traumatic and disorienting.

The end result is a calm, clean, easy to navigate, and friendly website that will help pet owners in London to know that their pet is being looked after in their final chapter.

You can see London Pet Cremation's website here, and if we can help to make your idea for a website a reality please get in touch.

The Old Uxonians Association is made up of former pupils of Bishopshalt School in Hillingdon, Middlesex. Run by volunteers, Old Uxonians wanted a website that was engaging, encouraged alumni to join, and had a Members only area for photographs and newsletters. We were approached by Judy Whitehouse, the Association's Newsletter Editor, who had seen our work and wanted a website that was simple to edit.

How we helped the Old Uxonians

After chatting with Judy we had a clear idea of what was needed to create the website.

Fortunately the Association wanted to have a website that was in-keeping with Bishopshalt School's site, and so this influenced the design of the site in terms of colours and fonts. We were also asked to write content for the home page, and we were acutely aware that our written copy had to be accurate and more formal than normal web copy because of the target demographic.

Working with Judy and the Association we quickly identified that the Association was keen to have new members and more donations. However, the site had to have a warm and welcoming feel to engage with past pupils quickly.

By creating the copy "Reconnect with friends and memories" we felt that immediately alumni would know what the site was about, and would see the benefit of joining.

We put sections in on the home page that clearly identified the purpose of the Association, and had calls to action throughout encouraging past pupils to become members.

The Members' area was created so that Old Uxonians could upload photos and newsletters. The photos all had captions and we worked with the Association to meet their needs.

We created a simple page for former pupils to join the Association, and added in the appropriate links.

A mixture of stock and the school's photos were used to make sure that the site looked modern as well as immediately recognisable as Bishophalt School's alumini's site.

We also provided training so that the Association could maintain their own site, and of course we are always on hand to help them, as we do for all our clients.

Old Uxonian Association's Feedback

"Putting together a web site can be a daunting prospect, and this was the position our old school alumni association were in. You sort of know what you want but you find it hard to describe.

This is where Khoo Seller were brilliant for us. They lead us step by step through identifying our main information areas, finding suitable photographs and placing just the right amount of text. They asked questions to find out what sort of an organisation we were and then really got to the heart of our association and its culture by designing a web site that looks both dignified and very professional.

They also helped put together the start of our Members Only area, which is password protected and which will ultimately contain our archive material. With the help of training and the user documentation supplied we are now able to update and maintain this area ourselves without any problems.

We announced the site through Facebook 2 days ago and since then we have had 8 new members and a donation, so we count this a huge success.

We would like to thank Khoo Seller for all their obvious skills, knowledge and experience and for their helpful advice along the way."

Judy Whitehouse - The Old Uxonians Association

Conclusion

The Old Uxonians' website benefitted from a strong design, good copy, and well placed calls to action. The Members Only area is easy to maintain and will provide an area for Old Uxonians to reconnect with memories and friends.

If you need a website for your association or charity please get in touch.

The products that Avancer sell are possibly the most complex that we have ever seen. With such specialism Avancer needed a site that could not only manage variants, but one where variants worked alongside customisation.

Avancer also had other requirements, such as software that was easy to manage in-house, managed their inventory, and their customers.

As with all our customers we worked closely with Avancer to help them create the site. The design was created to reflect their demographic. User experience also played a vital role in the design process, with a fully functioning search being essential so that customers can search for their specific items.

Even though here at Khoo Seller we have been creating eCommerce websites for 20 years, we were extremely challenged by the complexity of Avancer UK's products. As a result we knew that it was essential that Mike and the team at Avancer UK could add in their own products, upload pdfs, and add images. Training was given, and on-going support will continue as the site becomes more populated.

If you are looking to sell a complex product range then Khoo Seller is ideally placed to help you. For further information please contact us.

Understanding the Stockist Directory Module

A stockist directory module is a specialised feature that allows you to list and manage the locations or businesses that carry your products. It serves as a dynamic catalogue, presenting users with a comprehensive list of stockists where they can purchase your items. The KhooSeller Directory integrates with Google maps enabling your site visitors to see each directory item on an interactive map. There is also the ability to add attributes so that your site visitors can search by location or by the type of product. 

Its Critical Role in eCommerce

eCommerce is not limited to just online transactions; it often involves a network of physical locations where customers can experience products first-hand or make purchases. The stockist directory module bridges the gap between the online and offline worlds, ensuring that customers can easily access your products, regardless of their preferred shopping channel.

Now, let's delve into the top five benefits of integrating a stockist directory module into your eCommerce platform.

1. Enhanced Product Accessibility

Making Product Discovery Effortless

A stockist directory module significantly enhances the accessibility of your products. It empowers customers to discover nearby stores or locations where they can see, touch, and purchase your items. This is particularly valuable for products that customers prefer to evaluate in person, such as clothing, electronics, or furniture.

Imagine a customer interested in buying a high-end television from your eCommerce site. With a stockist directory module, they can effortlessly locate authorised retailers or shops in their vicinity. This seamless process not only simplifies their buying journey, but can also increase the chances of a purchase.

Simplifying the Buying Process

In addition to product discovery, a stockist directory module simplifies the buying process. Customers can quickly find the nearest stockists, and can check which stockists stock certain lines of your products.

By streamlining the path to purchase, you not only satisfy customers but also increase the likelihood of successful sales at physical locations.

2. Improved Brand Visibility

Amplifying Your Brand Presence

Your stockist directory module serves as a valuable branding tool. By showcasing a network of stockists, you amplify your brand's visibility. Potential customers encounter your brand not just online but also in the real world when they visit physical stores and can see your products on display.

This enhanced visibility reinforces your brand identity and creates a stronger connection with customers. They see your products not as isolated online offerings, but as items readily available at reputable locations, which builds trust and brand recognition.

Strengthening Partnerships

For many eCommerce businesses, building relationships with stockists and retailers is crucial. A stockist directory module helps strengthen these partnerships. Stockists featured in your directory gain exposure to your online customer base, which can be a significant incentive for them to promote your products.

Moreover, the module can include valuable information for stockists, such as marketing materials or training resources, further supporting your partnerships.

3. Expanded Market Reach

Tapping into New Markets

An eCommerce website with a stockist directory module allows you to tap into new markets and regions effortlessly. As you expand your list of stockists, your products become accessible to customers in areas where you might not have a physical presence or strong brand recognition.

For example, if you're a wedding dress manufacturer based in a specific region, listing stockists in other cities or even countries can introduce your products to a broader audience. This has worked well for True Bride who make good use of the directory on their website.

Increasing Sales Opportunities

With an expanded network of stockists, you create more sales opportunities. Customers can discover your products through various channels, whether it's a local shop, a department store, or an online marketplace.

Additionally, a well-managed stockist directory module can support multi-channel selling strategies. It ensures that all sales channels are synchronised, providing customers with a consistent experience and preventing stock-outs or discrepancies.

4. Data-Driven Stockist Insights

Utilising Stockist Data for Strategic Decisions

A stockist directory module provides valuable data that can inform strategic decisions. By analysing data related to stockist performance, customer preferences, and geographical trends, you can make informed choices about product distribution, marketing efforts, and expansion plans.

For example, you can identify which stockists have the highest sales, which products perform best in certain regions, or which areas have untapped potential. This data-driven approach allows you to allocate resources more effectively and optimise your business strategy.

Enhancing Customer Experiences

The data collected from the stockist directory module can also enhance customer experiences. For instance, you can use customer feedback and ratings to highlight top-performing stockists or provide recommendations based on a user's location.

By tailoring recommendations and optimising stockist information, you create a more personalised and engaging shopping experience for customers, ultimately driving customer loyalty and repeat purchases.

5. Improved Customer Trust and Confidence

A significant benefit of adding a directory module as a list of stockists to your eCommerce website is the enhancement of customer trust and confidence in your brand. Trust is a critical factor in online shopping, and the presence of a stockist directory can work wonders in building and solidifying that trust.

Providing a Sense of Reliability

When customers see that your products are available at multiple physical locations through a stockist directory, it creates a sense of reliability. They understand that your brand is not just a virtual entity but also has a tangible presence in the real world. This knowledge reassures customers that they are dealing with a legitimate, established business.

Addressing Customer Concerns

Many customers have concerns about online shopping, especially when it comes to the quality of products, returns, or customer service. A stockist directory can alleviate these concerns. Knowing that they can visit a physical store to see and test the products in person, make returns if necessary, and seek assistance from knowledgeable staff creates confidence in your brand.

Building Brand Loyalty

A stockist directory also contributes to brand loyalty. When customers have positive experiences at your listed stockists, they associate that satisfaction with your brand. This positive reinforcement can lead to repeat purchases and the advocacy of your products to friends and family.

Transparency and Accessibility

Transparency is a key aspect of trust-building in eCommerce. By openly sharing information about where customers can find your products, you demonstrate transparency in your operations. Customers appreciate this honesty, which, in turn, strengthens their trust in your brand.

Fostering Trust for Long-Term Success

Incorporating a directory module as a list of stockists into your eCommerce website fosters trust and confidence among your customers. It assures them of your brand's reliability, accessibility, and commitment to customer satisfaction. By providing a seamless connection between the virtual and physical shopping worlds, your stockist directory module becomes a powerful tool in building long-term customer relationships and driving the success of your eCommerce business.

Conclusion: Elevate Your eCommerce Success with a Stockist Directory Module

In conclusion, integrating a stockist directory module into your eCommerce platform elevates your business to new heights. By enhancing product accessibility, improving brand visibility, expanding market reach, and leveraging data-driven insights, you can strategically position your brand and products in both online and offline markets. A well-executed stockist directory module not only benefits your customers but also strengthens your relationships with stockists and fuels business growth. It's a powerful tool that should not be underestimated in the ever-evolving world of eCommerce.

As B2B buyers increasingly rely on online channels to discover, evaluate, and procure products and services, establishing a robust B2B eCommerce platform is paramount. In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into the best practices that will help you create a compelling, user-centric, and profit-driving B2B eCommerce website, tailored to meet the unique demands of the UK market.

1. Choose a Tailored B2B eCommerce Solution in the UK

• Market Research and Analysis: Conduct in-depth research on your target audience, competitors, and industry trends in the UK. Understanding the specific needs and pain points of your B2B customers will enable you to choose your eCommerce platform accordingly. Consider the support that you will need and whether you are happy to do this via live chat, or waiting for phone support, or whether you'd prefer to deal with a UK based company that will partner with you as you grow your business. Our customers appreciate the immediate response that they get from our team, and the personal service that they receive. This type of support can often be lost when dealing with a bigger company.
• Customised Pricing and Quoting: Implement a pricing structure that accommodates negotiated rates, volume discounts, and personalised quoting options, catering to the unique pricing preferences of B2B buyers. The ability to create custom pricing and draft orders is included as part of every KhooSeller eCommerce B2B website.
• Integration with CRM and ERP Systems: Ensure that you can seamlessly integrate your eCommerce platform with Customer Relationship Management (CRM) and Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems. This will provide streamlined order management, inventory tracking, and customer data synchronisation. KhooSeller has a built in CRM, but you can also segment and export your customers to other CRM and ERP systems if required.

2. Choose Software with Efficient Inventory Management

• Real-Time Inventory Updates: To run a successful B2B eCommerce website it is essential to integrate powerful inventory management software. Your stock control system must provide real-time updates on stock levels, must prevent overselling, and enable accurate delivery time frames. KhooSeller has some of the most sophisticated inventory management capabilities in any eCommerce system and at a much more affordable price point.
• Backorder and Pre-order Capabilities: If you're looking to be ahead of your competitors then you need to have an eCommerce solution that offers backorder and pre-order functionalities. This will allow B2B buyers to place orders for out-of-stock items, ensuring sales opportunities are not missed. Again KhooSeller offers the ability to allow both backorders and pre-orders on your product offering.
• Automated Reorder Reminders: Implement automated reorder reminders and notifications to B2B customers based on their purchase history, streamlining the procurement process.

3. Ensure that you have a Comprehensive B2B eCommerce Platform

• User-Friendly Interface: User-experience is key to making sales and so make sure that your platform provider can develop an intuitive and user-friendly shop. This must cater to the complex needs of B2B buyers, making it easy to navigate, search, and filter products. The use of attribute filters, folders, and complex variants are vital to make the sales process seamless, and you should be able to include product customisation where it is required alongside product variants.
• Customer Segmentation: Implement customer segmentation features that allow B2B buyers to access custom catalogues, pricing, and personalised recommendations based on their specific industries or purchasing behaviours. Choose a platform that has the ability to add attributes to products so that they can be found quickly and can be linked to by targetted email marketing offers.
• Quick Order: Choose software that makes reordering simple for your B2B customers by letting them place an order using using their last order,

4. Look for Seamless E-commerce with Stock Control

• Real-Time Stock Visibility: Ensure your B2B customers have real-time visibility into stock availability and expected delivery dates, reducing uncertainties during the ordering process.
• Automated Stock Replenishment: Make sure that you have automated stock replenishment based on predefined parameters to streamline your supply chain management.
• Purchase Order Processing:  Choose a platform that has seamless Purchase Order Processing. By automating the process you will significantly save time and money.
  
  

Conclusion: Elevate Your B2B Ecommerce Success in the UK

As the B2B eCommerce landscape continues to evolve, businesses in the UK must embrace innovative solutions to stay ahead of the competition. By adopting these best practices, you can create a highly efficient and customer-centric B2B eCommerce website, tailored to meet the specific needs of B2B buyers in the UK. From seamless inventory management to personalised user experiences, each step plays a crucial role in establishing your brand as a trusted B2B partner.

The KhooSeller team are based in West Sussex, but have been helping UK B2B businesses here in West Sussex and across the UK for almost two decades. We are always at the end of a phone for help and advice to partner with you to ensure that your B2B eCommerce business is a success.

In this post, we will delve into the benefits of a B2B eCommerce platform and explore how it can reshape your business.

1. Enhanced Efficiency and Streamlined Operations

One of the primary advantages of implementing a B2B eCommerce platform is the ability to enhance efficiency and streamline operations. Traditional B2B transactions often involve complex processes, such as manual order placement, extensive paperwork, and time-consuming negotiations. However, a B2B eCommerce platform automates these processes, enabling businesses to save valuable time and resources. With integrated accounts and inventory management features, businesses can efficiently manage their product catalogues, track inventory levels, and process orders seamlessly. This streamlined approach not only accelerates order processing but also minimises errors and improves overall operational efficiency.

2. Increased Sales and Revenue

A well-designed B2B eCommerce platform can significantly boost sales and revenue for businesses. By providing a user-friendly and intuitive online store-front, companies can offer their B2B customers a convenient and accessible purchasing experience. A robust eCommerce platform such as KhooSeller enables businesses to showcase their products effectively, provide detailed product information, and offer personalised pricing and discounts based on customer segments or order volumes. Moreover, integrated customer relationship management (CRM) tools empower businesses to build stronger customer relationships, analyse buying patterns, and offer tailored recommendations. These personalised experiences, coupled with the ease of online purchasing, can lead to increased sales and repeat business.

3. Expanded Market Reach and Customer Acquisition

Unlike traditional brick-and-mortar operations, B2B eCommerce platforms enable businesses to transcend geographical boundaries and expand their market reach. With an online presence, companies can target customers across different regions, tap into new markets, and attract a wider audience. Additionally, B2B eCommerce platforms provide the flexibility to scale operations rapidly, allowing businesses to accommodate increased demand and cater to a growing customer base. This expanded market reach not only opens up new opportunities, but also facilitates customer acquisition, ultimately driving business growth and market penetration.

4. Improved Customer Experience and Satisfaction

In today's competitive business landscape, providing exceptional customer experiences is paramount. B2B eCommerce platforms play a pivotal role in enhancing customer experience and satisfaction. By offering a user-friendly interface, intuitive navigation, and self-service options, businesses can empower their B2B customers to browse products, place orders, and access relevant information independently. Moreover, integrated CRM capabilities enable businesses to provide personalised support, track customer interactions, and offer proactive assistance when needed. These features combine to create a seamless and satisfying buying journey, fostering customer loyalty and advocacy.

5. Real-time Data Insights and Analytics

Data is the lifeblood of modern businesses, and B2B eCommerce platforms provide invaluable real-time data insights and analytics. These platforms offer comprehensive reporting and analytics tools that allow businesses to gain deeper visibility into their operations. By analysing sales trends, customer behaviour, and inventory data, companies can make data-driven decisions, optimise their product offerings, and identify new revenue streams. Additionally, these platforms enable businesses to monitor key performance indicators (KPIs), such as conversion rates, order fulfilment times, and customer satisfaction metrics. Armed with these actionable insights, businesses can refine their strategies, improve operational efficiency, and drive continuous growth.

6. Seamless Integration and Scalability

A robust B2B eCommerce platform seamlessly integrates with existing business systems, such as accounting software, and EDI's. KhooSeller has advanced inventory management built into the system so it's designed from the ground up to work seamlessly. This integration eliminates manual data entry, reduces errors, and ensures data consistency across different platforms. Furthermore, a scalable B2B eCommerce platform can accommodate business growth without compromising performance or user experience. As businesses expand, these platforms offer the flexibility to add new products, manage larger customer databases, and handle increased transaction volumes. This scalability allows businesses to adapt to changing market dynamics and future-proof their operations.

7. Advanced Pricing and Contract Management

A B2B eCommerce platform offers advanced pricing and contract management capabilities, providing businesses with greater control and flexibility in their pricing strategies. This means businesses can set up tiered pricing models, volume discounts, or special promotions tailored to individual customers or customer groups. This dynamic pricing approach helps to incentivise larger orders, encourage repeat business, and drive customer loyalty. Moreover, businesses can implement pricing rules that automatically adjust prices based on predefined criteria, ensuring consistency and accuracy in pricing across various channels.

Conclusion

The benefits of a B2B eCommerce platform such as KhooSeller are undeniable. From streamlined operations and increased sales to improved customer experiences and real-time data insights, these platforms can revolutionise the way businesses operate and thrive in the digital age. By embracing the power of B2B eCommerce, companies can reshape their businesses, drive growth, and stay ahead of the competition. As the business landscape continues to evolve, investing in a reliable and feature-rich B2B eCommerce platform is crucial for long-term success and sustainability.

 If you would like to find out more how KhooSeller can help you to increase your revenue through B2B eCommerce sales please get in touch.

Reference

https://www.statista.com/

1. Conduct Regular Inventory Audits

Regular inventory audits are crucial for small businesses to maintain accurate stock levels. By conducting audits, you can:

• identify discrepancies between your records and actual inventory,
• address stock inaccuracies, and
• prevent issues such as overstocking or under-stocking.

By setting a schedule for routine audits, and utilising inventory management software, managing stock will help you to streamline the process.

2. Categorise Your Inventory

Categorising your inventory is an effective way to organise and manage your stock. Consider using the ABC analysis technique, which involves categorising items based on their value and sales frequency. Classify your inventory into three categories:

• A (high-value items with high sales frequency),
• B (moderate-value items with moderate sales frequency), and
• C (low-value items with low sales frequency).

This categorisation helps prioritise stock control efforts and focus on items that have the most significant impact on your business. Having software that also provides reports on product sales in terms of amount and frequency will make this classification simpler. 

Pro tip: Do a pareto analysis on your most ordered/shipped items to find the 20% of your items that constitute 80% of your sales! 

3. Implement a Just-in-Time (JIT) Approach

For small businesses with limited storage space and resources, implementing a just-in-time (JIT) approach can be beneficial.

JIT inventory management focuses on receiving goods as they are needed in the production or sales process. This in turn reduces excess inventory levels and associated carrying costs. By adopting JIT, small businesses can optimise inventory levels, minimise storage expenses, and improve cash flow.

4. Establish Reorder Points (Parameters) and Safety Stock Levels

Setting parameters for reordering and safety stock levels is crucial to avoid running out of stock and keeps your operations running smoothly. Reorder points indicate the inventory level at which you should reorder a product to prevent it going out of stock. You should also ensure that you have a system in place so that these points are flagged so that you can take action.

Safety stock acts as a buffer against unforeseen demand fluctuations, supplier delays, and/or financial constraints. By analysing historical sales data, lead times, and market trends you will be able to determine the appropriate reorder points and safety stock levels for each item. This in turn will help you to meet market demand and ease stress levels.

Pro tip: Configure minimum stock levels, and restock values for each item to quickly identify which products are below their restock level. KhooSeller Inventory module can help you manage this! 

5. Leverage Inventory Management Software

Investing in inventory management software can significantly enhance small businesses processes. These software solutions offer features such as real-time inventory tracking, automated reorder point alerts, sales forecasting, and reporting capabilities. By leveraging such tools, you can streamline inventory control, gain valuable insights, and make data-driven decisions to optimise your stock. This in turn will make your business more efficient and less stressful.

One benefit of having real-time knowledge of your inventory is that you can identify SKU's that are slow moving and put in place marketing strategies to sell the stock. For example email campaigns, price breaks, multi-buys, or special offers can be used to promote slower selling products and prevent stock being left on shelves.

6. Foster Effective Communication and Collaboration

Effective communication and collaboration within your business are crucial for efficient inventory management. Ensure that your purchasing, sales, and warehouse teams are aligned and regularly share information on stock levels, customer demands, and sales forecasts. By implementing a centralised system, or having software that allows seamless communication, you will be able to minimise errors and improve inventory visibility.

Pro tip: Make sure the conversation internally about operations stays positive and constructive. If a team member isn't pulling their weight, work with them to understand how they can improve. 

7. Optimise Supplier Relationships

Developing strong relationships with suppliers is vital for small businesses to ensure a smooth supply chain and timely delivery of goods. With good communication negotiating favourable terms is easier, and you may be able to establish mutually beneficial partnerships. Keeping suppliers in the loop will also help you manage lead times effectively, and address any issues promptly.

Pro tip: Use the KhooSeller Supplier module to quickly reorder and receive goods-in from your suppliers with ease. Combine this with the auto-restock function to master your inventory like a pro! 

8. Monitor and Analyse Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

Monitoring and analysing key performance indicators (KPIs) related to inventory management can provide you with valuable insights into your business's performance and help you to identify areas for improvement.

Some essential KPIs to track include:

• inventory turnover rate,
• fill rate,
• order accuracy,
• carrying costs, and
• out of stock rates. 

Putting time and effort into reviewing these metrics to identify trends will help you to make data-driven decisions, and optimise your inventory management strategy. This is so important when running a small business because understanding these indicators you will be able to streamline your processes more efficiently.

Conclusion

Efficient inventory management is crucial for the success of small businesses. By implementing these essential tips, including conducting regular inventory audits, categorising inventory, adopting a just-in-time approach, setting reorder points, leveraging inventory management software, fostering effective communication, optimising supplier relationships, and monitoring key performance indicators, small businesses can streamline their inventory processes, reduce costs, and enhance customer satisfaction. Prioritising inventory management as a strategic aspect of your business is essential to drive growth and profitability.

At KhooSeller we are experts in inventory management and can help you as a small business. Do get in touch if you would like find out how our software can improve your business's performance online.

All KhooSeller's customers without a completed Privacy Policy are being urged to complete the policy so that their web visitor can read it and decide their cookie preferences.

With amends to the Data Protection Act 2018 being enacted shortly it appears that web analytics will be allowed to be used without consent, although we have included these as a preference at the moment as we are waiting for the amendments to come into force.

The British Percheron Horse Society (BPHS) approached us to see how we could help improve their online engagement, and their interaction with present members. Their existing website was unfortunately not mobile-friendly, had only a few low resolution images, and their forms had to be completed off-line.

Where to start on your journey to attract new members to your Society?

With over 71% of people searching for information online then the first place to encourage new membership should be your website. This should be mobile-friendly, have clear navigation, and be easy to maintain yourself. If it is not, then you should make refreshing or redesigning your website a priority.

The most important thing in any website redesign is the relationship between you and your web designer/agency. It is essential that your designer understands the aims of your Society, what they want from your website, and what difficulties you are currently experiencing. If you have a brand document then your designer must ensure that they build the site with this in mind, and if you don't then your designer should be able to create a clear brand within your website.

You should also check with your designer that the platform that they are building on is a platform where the software is kept up-to-date to ensure that your website is not vulnerable to security threats. Updates should ideally be free, and be part of your service provided.

How should a website be designed to attract new members? 

Firstly you should know what you are trying to achieve with the website. Try to be realistic and keep in mind who your demographic are so that you can help your designer to create a site that is appropriate for potential new members. The British Percheron Horse Society had clear aims for their website, but didn't know where to start with this. It was our role as experts in design and user-experience to help them with this. Their experience is useful in looking at how an Association's website should be designed.

Having clear aims for the website we then considered BPHS's demographic. This turned out to be far broader than we had anticipated, which led to the overall look and feel of the site. We worked with BPHS to flesh out the objectives of the website e.g. once the website is live new members should be able to apply online, and the website should clearly show the different types of roles the Percheron Horse can take on pictorially.

With a good idea of what calls for action were needed the structural hierarchy was determined to ensure that the user journey was simple and intuitive. Content for the pages was provided by the Society as were high-resolution responsive images of the Percheron horse in different scenarios.

With all the content gathered the creative design team at Khoo Seller created a website. To attract new members the website had:

• A clear user-experience,
• Information on the history of the British Percheron Horse,
• An events area so that web visitors could learn about upcoming events and members meetings,
• Calls to action to promote membership,
• A blog so that visitors with information to engage new members,
• Complex forms for various uses on the site - please see our blog on these here,
• A contact form,
• The Society's Instagram feed on the home page,
• Links to social media,
• Information on how to donate, and
• A site where images of the British Percheron horse played a dominant role.

Obviously the KhooSeller Design Team tailored the site to the needs and interests of the Society's members, and focused on engaging visitors who knew little about the horse, but the end result was excellent, as can be seen on The British Percheron Horse website here.

Conclusion

Attracting new members to a Society or Association is essential, and having a responsive, engaging website is part of this process. This is the feedback from Michael Swan from The British Percheron Society:

"Just wanted to extend my sincere thanks to you and all the team for all you have done for the BPHS website and getting it live last week.

We’ve had a wonderful response from members and non-members alike and have even gained new membership already."

If we can help assist you with your Society's or Association's website do get in touch, and we will be happy to help.

In this blog post, we'll provide you with some tips and best practices for creating a membership application form that will encourage more people to join you.

1. Keep it Simple and Concise

The first and most important step to creating an effective membership application form is to keep it simple and concise. The form should be easy to complete, with a clear structure and logical flow. To achieve this, you should only ask for the information that is absolutely necessary for the application process. Avoid asking for unnecessary details or information that may discourage people from completing the form. For example using hidden fields, which are only revealed if a certain option is chosen, makes a form less daunting and so more likely to be filled in.

2. Use Clear and Concise Labels

To help users understand the information being requested, you should use clear and concise labels for each field on the form. The labels should be descriptive, indicating what information is required and in what format. For example, if you are requesting the applicant's name, you should use a label such as "Full Name" or "Name (First and Last)". This will help to avoid any confusion and ensure that the information provided is accurate.

3. Group Related Information Together

Another important consideration when creating a membership application form is to group related information together. This helps users to understand the information being requested and also makes it easier to complete the form. For example, you could group together fields such as name, address, and contact information, to make it clear that these fields are related and should be completed together. 

4. Use Placeholders and Hints

To provide additional information about the information being requested or how it should be formatted, you should use placeholders and hints. Placeholders are examples of the type of information that should be entered into a field, while hints provide additional information about how the information should be formatted. For example, you could use a placeholder such as "John Smith" for the name field and a hint such as "Please enter your name exactly as it appears on your passport".

5. Choose the Right Form Elements

Choosing the right form elements is crucial when it comes to creating an effective and user-friendly form. There are a variety of form elements available, including radio buttons, checkboxes, dropdown menus, text fields, and more.

Radio Buttons vs. Checkboxes

Radio buttons and checkboxes are two of the most commonly used form elements, but they have different use cases. Radio buttons are used when the user needs to make a single choice from a list of options, while checkboxes are used when the user can select one or more options.

For example, on a membership application form, you might use radio buttons to ask the user which membership level they would like to apply for, as they can only choose one option. On the other hand, you might use checkboxes to ask the user which types of communication they would like to receive, as they might want to select multiple options.

Hidden Fields

Another useful feature to consider when building a membership application form is the use of hidden fields. Hidden fields allow you to hide certain form fields until a specific condition is met, such as selecting a certain option in a radio button or checkbox.

Where this would be useful is if you are asking the user how they would like to pay their membership fee. In this scenario you could include a radio button for "BACS" payments and once the user selects this option, you could then reveal additional fields where you can provide your bank details and any instructions.

This approach can be particularly useful for forms with a lot of fields, as it can help to reduce the applicant from feeling overwhelmed and will encourage and enable them to complete the process.

Dropdown Menus

Dropdown menus are another common form element, particularly when asking for information such as a user's country. Dropdown menus are useful for presenting a large number of options in a compact space, but thought should be given to the number of choices presented so that they don't become frustrating for users having to scroll through a long list to find the option they need. This is particularly important on mobile phones.

Text Fields

Text fields are one of the most basic form elements, but they are also one of the most versatile. Text fields can be used for a wide range of inputs such as names, addresses, phone numbers, and email addresses. When designing your membership application form, it's important to think carefully about the type of information you are asking for and how you can make it as easy as possible for users to input this information.

For example, when asking for a user's address, you might consider using separate fields for the street name, town/city, and postal code. This can help to ensure that all the necessary information is collected accurately and so reduces the likelihood of errors.

5. Use Validation and Error Messages

Another important consideration is how you will validate the information entered by the user. Validation is the process of checking the data entered into the form to ensure that it is correct to help reduce errors. It is essential that an email form element automatically checks that the user has entered a valid email address. It's also possible to choose whether to make a field a 'required field' which will ensure the field has been filled in before allowing the user to submit the form. 

6. Make it Accessible

Accessibility should always be a priority when creating a membership application form. You should use appropriate contrast, keyboard navigation, and other accessibility features to ensure that the form is easy to use for all users. For example, you could use high contrast colours to make the form easier to read for users with visual impairments, and provide keyboard navigation for users who cannot use a mouse.

7. Consider Gift Aid

Gift Aid is a UK tax incentive that allows charities and other non-profit organisations to claim back the tax paid on donations. If your society is a registered charity, you should consider including a Gift Aid section on your membership application form to boost your funds and support your activities.

To include a Gift Aid section on your form, you should ask applicants if they would like to make a Gift Aid declaration. If they agree, you should provide them with a statement explaining the tax incentive and asking them to confirm that they are eligible to make. This is where hidden fields come into their own to ensure that a form doesn't appear too long and daunting.

Conclusion

In conclusion, building an effective and user-friendly membership application form requires careful consideration of the form elements you use and how they are presented to the user. By using radio buttons, checkboxes, hidden fields, dropdown menus, text fields, buttons, and validation, you can create a form that is both easy to use and highly effective at collecting the information you need from your members.

With these best practices in mind, you can create a membership application form that is not only functional but also enjoyable for users to interact with. At KhooSeller our software has been designed to create user-friendly, easy to navigate, and accessible membership forms. If you would like to find out more please get in touch.

1. User experience

The user experience (UX) of a website refers to how easy it is for users to navigate and interact with the site. A website with a poor UX can be frustrating for visitors, leading them to leave and potentially look elsewhere for products or services. On the other hand, a website with a good UX can make it easier for users to find what they are looking for and make a purchase, increasing the chances of a sale. Companies should focus on making their website easy to navigate, with a clear and intuitive layout and well-organized content.

2. Mobile-friendliness

With the increasing popularity of mobile devices, it is more important than ever for websites to be mobile-friendly. This means that the website should be designed to work well on smartphones and tablets, with a responsive layout that adjusts to the size of the screen. A website that is not mobile-friendly can be difficult to use on a small screen and may turn off potential customers.

3. Professional design

The design of a website can play a big role in how it is perceived by visitors. A website with a professional, visually appealing design can create a positive impression and build trust with potential customers. On the other hand, a poorly designed website can make a business seem unprofessional or unreliable. Companies should focus on creating a cohesive and visually appealing design that reflects their brand and values.

4. Easy checkout process

The checkout process is an important part of the sales process, and a website with a lengthy or confusing checkout process can turn off potential customers. Companies should focus on making the checkout process as easy and streamlined as possible, with clear instructions and minimal steps required.

5. Product information and images

Providing detailed product information and high-quality images can be critical for driving sales on a website. Customers want to know what they are purchasing and may be more likely to make a purchase if they have access to detailed information and clear images of the product. Companies should focus on providing as much information as possible about their products, including features, specifications, and customer reviews.

Overall, a good website can be a powerful tool for growing sales and attracting new customers. Companies should focus on creating a website with a good UX, mobile-friendliness, professional design, easy checkout process, and detailed product information and images to maximize its potential for driving sales.

• Create a Draft Order for the customer, and send it to the customer who can then review or accept the quote,
• Create an order from a Draft Order
• Duplicate a Draft Order
• Edit a Draft Order

The Draft Order will apply your Customer's Pricing, Trade Discount, and/or Price Breaks.

You can also add in vouchers and the select the appropriate delivery option.

We have also developed Draft Orders for those of our clients who create orders for imported customers who do not have email addresses. These orders invariably have been placed by a mail order and cheque. The order can be placed as a Draft Order and then converted to a order, enabling an invoice to be created etc without the need for an email address.

Further information on Draft Orders and how to use them can be found on our Support Pages.

To use draft orders, you need to be using the eCommerce or eCommerce Pro plan. If you want to use Draft Orders but can't see it in the menu, please get in touch and your account manager will enable them for you. 

Taking payments online can be a complicated process for eCommerce merchants, but Stripe makes the process a whole lot easier. In essence when a merchant signs up to Stripe they become a sub-merchant of Stripe, which negates the need for a merchant account. Stripe then carries the risk, and it is easy to sign up and become a merchant.

 With Stripe there is no monthly fee, just pay-as-you-go pricing, which for existing customers is:

• 1.5% + 20p for European cards
• 2.9% + 20p for non-European cards.

Information on pricing can be found on Stripe's website.

 There is a small admin charge of £45 + VAT for set up, but if you would like to take payments by Stripe please let us know.

This will allow your customers to buy products on a schedule with a discount. For example, buy 1 product every month for a 10% discount. 

The function is very flexible, customers can choose how many products, what frequency and you decide the discount percentage. If a customer has multiple subscriptions they will be merged into one combined order for the 1st of every month. 

Here are some of the key features: 

• Decide which % discount to offer on each product.
• Customers can decide the quantity and frequency they would like.
• Customers can decide to pause a future delivery or skip the next scheduled delivery.
• Customers can edit their delivery details during the subscription.
• The Subscription will create an order for the customer at a time you specify, eg X days before the first of the month.

To use the subscribe and Save module you must be on the eCommerce or eCommerce Pro package. If you want to get started, read our new guide here and get in touch with us to implement this in your business! 

Our ancillary services include:

• Email Campaign Design
• Video Marketing
• Motion Graphics
• Print Design including brochures, business cards, letterhead design etc.

All our clients are working in an increasingly competitive market and with so much competition, it’s no surprise they are wanting something to set them apart to entice readers to click through and convert into customers. One way to do this? Incorporate movement to either email campaigns or the website itself.

Email Campaign Design

It's been great to see a number of our clients moving onto the KhooSeller email campaigner which offers the ability to include animated GIFs within the design. Animated GIFs are still the best method for increasing engagement and clicks in email marketing and so we are creating a variety of these for our clients together with a fully branded email template design service. 

One of our clients, Skin Genius, recently rebranded and wanted a new more modern email campaign template in which she could incorporate animated GIFs. We designed and created this for her in the KhooSeller email campaigner. The full template design can be seen here which is beautifully branded, fully responsive, and gives her a number of different ways she can display content in her emails.

Meanwhile not all our clients want to incorporate moving image but they have benefited from the flexibility of the design solutions on offer in the new ecampaign system. It allows for more responsive campaign designs which use the full width of the screen. A design template we did for the Hope Health Action charity can be seen here.

Motion Graphics

Together with our email campaign design service, we have been designing and creating short sequences to promote various materials. The following are examples we created for Kwazar.

One of the benefits of animated sequences is their ability to explain a concept much more immediately such as the 360 degree sprayer which has the ability to spray equally as well upside down as the right way up. We also designed the promotional product stand which the wire twisting tools can be displayed on in a store since Kwazar sells wholesale to other suppliers and so he wanted to show the display stand which he can also supply too.

Video creation and editing

We were also asked to create a promotional video to further promote the sanitisation stands which presented it's own challenges trying to film during lock-down. However, we filmed outside and maintained social distancing throughout to create a very simple video promoting the hygiene stations. The video incorporated motion graphics to help make it as informative as possible. We handled the entire production process including the logo opener.

Videos also provide the opportunity to explain complex solutions in a more easy to understand format. We utilised this ability for our Amazon Vendor EDI software solution, KhooCommerce and produced this at the start of last year.

Branding and logo openers

In order to provide an end to end service, we are also able to help clients with complete branding solutions from logos, business cards, branded stationery, and folders to promotional stands, logo openers, and videos. We can provide photography services which reflect your brand and values which we did for St Mary's School in Pulborough when they needed a promotional folder for school related documentation. 

We are currently building Lewis Surveyors new website and are managing all that they will need to launch their new brand including organising their new logo design, designing their letterheaded paper, and designing their business cards. 

Conclusion

As the internet becomes the go to place to promote your products and services online customers are demanding a more engaging presence. With KhooSeller you can create visual and cross-channel content to increase your market reach. If we can help you in any way please get in touch.

What changes have we made to the KhooSeller code?

The introduction of 3D Secure Version 2 has meant a significant change in the way in which payments had to be processed, and with this in mind we decided to rewrite the entire payment system, and update our underlying code. The new payment code was launched just prior to Christmas, and the changeover was reasonably seamless as we had undertaken extensive testing to iron out any issues. We have continued to work on 3D Secure, and have been working closely with our card processing partners to facilitate a smooth transition to Version 2.

With export requirements becoming stricter after Brexit we have added code fields in the Product Data which include the:

• GTIN (Global Trade Identification Number),
• HS Code (Harmonised System code, which is a multipurpose international product nomenclature that describes the type of good that is shipped, and
• Country of Origin.

This has inevitably meant some delays in the promised developments within KhooSeller. However, we are back on track with our road map and have some exciting new additions to the current KhooSeller offering.

What things are we adding shortly?

Stripe

Stripe is a payment platform that lets you accept debit and credit card payments, and is an affordable alternative to PayPal. We will be offering an integrated solution, which we believe will encourage more sales. Stripe is a relative newcomer to the payment provider platform, but nonetheless has proved popular with many large online businesses.

We are currently in the testing stage with Stripe, and we will let you know as soon as it is launched.

Subscriptions

Work had already begun on the subscriptions module, but we are in the process of revising the way in which it works, and will be adding the ability to offer products on subscription to your customers. This is a highly complicated development, but we are confident that this new feature will be ready by the end of April / early May.

WorldPay's New Access Platform

WorldPay is the leading acquirer in the UK and we have partnered with them since 2019. WorldPay are shortly to introduce a new platform called Access and we will be working with their developers in early summer to ensure that the transition is made smoothly for those eCommerce customers who use them.

Other developments

We have a few more areas that we wish to develop through this coming year including improving our Xero integration, adding Klarna (which offers instalment plans), finishing Purchase Ordering, and tweaking our Google Analytics offering.

Conclusion

Unlike other software providers we are always developing our code to keep it current and secure. We not only look at market trends, but also respond to customer requests. Where several of our clients want a certain feature to be added, the feature is then added to the development roadmap so that we can continue to provide the functionality that our customers deserve.

If you would like to know any more about any of our proposed developments please get in touch.