Special Resource Section: 10 Best Practices for Choosing the Right E-Commerce Platform Provider

10. Work with a partner, not a vendor. Choosing the right e-commerce platform provider to work with is critical to your overall internet success. But let's face it, there are many providers out there offering similar-sounding technologies and services. So how do you know which one to choose? Make sure the provider offers the best solution for the long-term success of your business. Some e-commerce systems may cost less up front, but because of poor shopping cart functionality, lack of reliability or bad design, they end up costing you more in the long run when factoring in lost sales and excessive maintenance costs. The most expensive system may not be a good match either. It may offer functionality you'll never need or be too costly and complex to manage or modify. Find someone who can guide you through the decision, and consider the total cost over three years to five years, not just the initial acquisition cost.