B2B eCommerce

While B2C eCommerce is known to require sophisticated front-end features, B2B eCommerce requires a much more advanced back-end and integration to the ERP system. Historically, B2B eCommerce was installed as stand-alone sites hidden behind a log in. SEO was not required and the usability was not the first priority. Today, we have a completely different situation. Every B2B customer requires nothing less than a B2C customer. The B2B site is in most cases just a different mode of the home page and the open B2C site. Therefore, today’s site owners understand that a great B2B eCommerce site needs to include a great front-end and a fantastic back-end.

B2B companies trying to use B2C eCommerce platforms will quickly realize the difference. B2B merchants need to manage customer specific price lists, set up customer specific product assortment, allow multiple user roles per customer company and offer approval flows for order submission. Different roles also require different workflows, unique content and features. The conclusion is that B2B eCommerce is a great opportunity to create a competitive advantage by offering the best customer experience. The reward is a major increase in sales volume and profit margin.