How To Build An E-Commerce App: 6 Step Guide

Do you want to learn how to build an e-commerce app to establish an online presence or sell your
products or services? If so, you are in the right place.

E-commerce mobile apps are one of the best ways to increase your ROI as it gives you direct access
to
your users. So, where do you begin?

This guide breaks down the essential steps to creating an e-commerce app, from setting goals to
choosing the right development agency.

Whether you’re a small startup or a large company, this easy-to-follow guide will help you create an
e-commerce app that shines in the online market!

What’s An Ecommerce App?

An e-commerce app is like a digital shop where businesses sell things online to people. These apps
serve as virtual storefronts where customers can browse, purchase, and manage orders from their
computers or mobile devices. E-commerce apps like Amazon and Shopify allow businesses to sell
products online to reach more customers globally.

Stats suggest that the e-commerce market is growing a lot, and is expected to be worth

$6.3 trillion in 2024, up from $5.8 trillion last year. This growth means businesses have many opportunities to do well and reach more customers.

Things
to Consider Before Building an E-commerce App

Building an e-commerce app is a big job that needs careful planning. If any business rushes into it
without thinking about key factors like goals, technical needs, costs, and timelines, they might
face problems later on. So, it’s important to take the time to plan everything out carefully before
starting.

1. 1. Avg Cost required

   When it comes to making an e-commerce app, the big question is: “How much does it cost to
   make an e-commerce app?” Well, it depends on a few things:

   Factors Influencing the Cost of
   Developing Ecommerce App:

   1. A. Features and Functionality
      

      The more features you want to add to your app, like showing products, letting people
      buy them, and suggesting other things they might like, the more it’ll cost.

   2. B. Design Complexity

      Complex designs with numerous impressive effects cost more than simple,
      straightforward ones.

   3. C. Development Approach

      It’ll cost more if you want everything custom-made from scratch. However, it’s still
      better than using the ready-made approach, as you get precisely what you want in
      your app.

   4. D. Third-party Integrations

      If you want to incorporate more services, like payment systems or shipping
      companies,
      that’ll add to the bill.

      It’s hard to say exactly how much it costs to make an e-commerce app without a
      comprehensive understanding of all the relevant factors. Expenses can fluctuate
      depending on the complexity of the app and the required resources. For instance:

      • Basic app: $10,000 – $50,000
      • Mid-range app: $50,000 – $150,000
      • Complex app: $150,000 – $500,000+

      These are rough estimates, and actual costs may differ. Getting a detailed estimate
      from our development team before starting would be helpful for you to make an
      informed decision.

2. 2. Time to Develop and Deploy the App
   

   Another question people often ask is, “How long should it take to build an e-commerce app?”
   Well, it depends on certain aspects again:

   Factors that affect time:

   1. A. Scope and Complexity

      The extent of functionality you desire for your app will have an impact on the time
      required for its development. A basic app could be developed within a few months,
      whereas a more advanced one may require a year or longer.

   2. B. Design and Development
      Process

      Establishing custom designs and features requires more time than utilizing pre-made
      options. Using ready-made tools is more efficient than starting from scratch.

   3. C. Testing and Iteration

      Testing the app to ensure it functions properly and addressing any issues further
      extends the overall development timeline. This step is crucial, so it’s essential to
      dedicate sufficient time to ensure it is done correctly.

      Once the app is completed, it must be made available on the app stores for users to
      download. Every app store has its own set of rules and review processes, which may
      require a few days or weeks to complete. Therefore, it is crucial to carefully
      consider and allocate sufficient time before releasing the app to your users.

3. 3. App’s complexity

   When considering the level of complexity of your e-commerce app, take into account the
   following levels:

   1. A. Simple Apps

      These apps are basic and require minimal effort. They offer a comprehensive range of
      tools and features that enable seamless online selling, including product showcasing
      and secure purchasing options. They are suitable for beginners and are inexpensive.

   2. B. Medium Complexity Apps

      These apps offer more functions, such as product recommendations and the ability to
      share content on social media platforms. They require more time and investment than
      basic apps.

   3. C. Complex Apps

      These apps are highly advanced and offer a wide range of impressive features, such
      as
      virtual clothes try-on functionality and an extensive choice of sellers, all in one
      place. They are the most time-consuming to create and cost the most.

      So, how do you find the right balance?

      Consider your app requirements and budget carefully. You need to have an app that
      offers sufficient functionality without incurring unnecessary costs and should be
      made within a reasonable timeframe.

Steps to Build
an E-commerce App

Developing an e-commerce app requires a series of steps to transform your concept into a functional
application that lets users conveniently shop online. If you’re wondering, “How do I create my
ecommerce app,” these steps will help you. Follow every step of the e-commerce app development
process, from initial planning to generating ideas.

1. Step 1. Determine Your App’s Goal

   Before you start building your e-commerce app, it is crucial to have a clear understanding
   of
   your objectives and the desired features. First, understand your objectives, such as
   increasing sales or expanding your reach.

   Further, you need to understand your target audience, including their age and preferences,
   enabling you to enhance the app to cater to their needs more effectively. Set clear
   objectives for your app, such as the desired number of sales or user engagement. Ensure that
   your app’s objectives align with your business’s overall objectives.

   By having a clear vision for your app’s functionality from the start, you can develop it to
   align with your objectives.

2. Step 2. Perform Market research

   Once you have determined the desired functionality of your e-commerce app, the subsequent
   task is to analyze the market. This allows you to gain insights into your customer base,
   stay informed about the competition, and stay up-to-date with industry trends.

   You’ll need to determine the buying preferences of your target audience. Consider factors
   such as their age and purchasing habits to ensure that your app caters to their specific
   requirements.

   Additionally, consider exploring alternative apps that share similarities with yours. Assess
   their strengths and weaknesses. This will assist you in enhancing your app to outperform
   your competitors.

   Stay informed about the latest developments in the industry, such as technological
   advancements or shifts in consumer preferences. This will assist you in maintaining a
   dynamic and captivating app.

   Finally, engage with individuals who could potentially benefit from your application. Know
   what they think about your offerings and the features they want in an e-commerce app.

   
   Also Read: Top 10 eCommerce Trends in 2024
   

3. Step 3. Choose the platform – PWA or
   Native app?

   Feature	PWA	Native App
   Development Cost	Generally lower, single codebase for all platforms	Higher often requires separate codebases
   Performance	Good, but can be limited by browser capabilities	Excellent, optimized for specific platforms
   Installation	No installation is needed, it is accessed via a browser	Must be downloaded and installed from app stores
   User Access	Accessible on any device with a web browser	Limited to specific platforms (iOS, Android)
   Offline Usage	Limited, depends on service workers	Full, designed for offline functionality
   Updates	Instant updates deployed on the server	Requires user to download updates
   Hardware Access	Limited access to device features	Extensive access to the device’s hardware
   User Experience	Consistent across platforms but may feel less integrated	Highly optimized, feels integrated with the device

   When deciding on the platform for your e-commerce app, you’ll come across two primary
   choices: Progressive Web App (PWA) or Native App. Let’s break down the pros and cons of each
   so you can make an informed decision.

   Progressive Web App (PWA)

   PWAs are web-based apps that work well on devices like phones and computers. These apps
   follow the cross-platform approach to deliver a consistent experience across different
   devices and platforms.

   Pros

   • They are compatible with various devices, ensuring accessibility for a larger user
     base.

   • They can work offline, even in the absence of an internet connection, which is quite
     convenient.

   • Updates are quick and easy, without users needing to download anything.

   Cons

   • Some device features, such as push notifications, may not be accessible to them.

   • They may not be as efficient as native apps, especially when performing complex
     tasks.

   Native App

   Native apps are built specifically for one type of device, like an iPhone or Android phone.

   Pros

   • They’re usually faster and can access all the device’s features.

   • They offer a smoother and more intuitive experience for users.

   Cons

   • Creating apps for different devices can be costly and time-consuming.

   • Before users can download them, they must undergo a thorough app store review
     process.

   Consider your intended audience and the app’s desired goals. If you require specific device
   features and optimal performance, a native app would be the most suitable choice. However,
   if you are looking for widespread accessibility and seamless updates, a PWA might be the
   ideal choice.

   In addition to this, you may want to explore a hybrid approach such as React Native or
   Flutter, which blends elements of both PWA and native apps.

4. Step 4. List Out Features Required

   Before you initiate the development process, it is crucial to have a clear understanding of
   the requirements for your e-commerce app. Consider these key features in your app:

   • Push Notifications

     Keep users engaged with updates and promotions.

   • Easy Checkouts

     Simplify the purchasing process for hassle-free transactions.

   • Wish Lists

     Let users save desired items for quick and convenient shopping.

   • Multiple Payment Options

     Offer flexibility with various payment methods.

   • Custom Branding and Design
     Elements

     Enhance brand identity and user experience.

   • Review/Rating System

     Enable customers to share feedback to make informed decisions.

5. Step 5. Search For an E-commerce App
   Development Company

   Determine your budget first. Understanding how much you can invest in your e-commerce app
   will assist in narrowing down your choices and directing your search toward agencies that
   align with your financial constraints.

   However, you shouldn’t compromise on the quality of your app while looking for cheaper
   options. Research potential agencies next. Find companies that have expertise in developing
   e-commerce apps and a successful history of delivering top-notch projects.

   Further, you need to provide the necessary details regarding your app requirements,
   timeline,
   and budget to get accurate estimates. Assess the experience and expertise of each agency in
   e-commerce app development by reviewing their portfolio, client testimonials, and case
   studies. This will help you determine if they are a good fit for your project.

   However, if you’re tired of the hassle of searching for companies for your project, you can
   choose us! As a top e-commerce app development company, Wegile is well aware of the unique
   challenges associated with developing e-commerce apps. We’ll collaborate with you to
   discover innovative solutions and make your app vision a reality.

   Ultimately, it is crucial to prioritize value when choosing a development agency. Select a
   company that provides a superior blend of excellence and, dependability, and
   cost-effectiveness to ensure a fruitful partnership and successful delivery of your
   e-commerce application.

6. Step 6. Market Your App

   Promoting your e-commerce app is key for attracting users and boosting sales. Follow the
   steps below to market your app effectively:

   1. 1. Enhance App Store Visibility
      

      Use captivating descriptions and eye-catching visuals to make your app stand out in
      app stores.

   2. 2. Leverage Social Media
      Platforms

      Utilize platforms like Instagram and Facebook to connect with potential customers
      and
      build brand awareness.

   3. 3. Implement Targeted
      Advertising

      Increase app downloads through strategic advertising campaigns that target your
      ideal
      user base.

   4. 4. Collaborate with Influencers
      

      Partner with influencers who can help extend your reach to a broader audience,
      enhancing visibility and credibility.

   5. 5. Offer Exclusive Promotions
      

      Provide special deals and exclusive promotions to incentivize downloads and boost
      sales.

   6. 6. Utilize Email Marketing

      Maintain regular communication with your existing customers through email marketing
      to keep them engaged and informed about new offers and features.

      These steps are designed to increase the visibility of your app, attract new users,
      and ultimately expand your business.

Conclusion

To sum up, developing an e-commerce app requires careful consideration and implementation. Through
careful financial planning, thorough market analysis, platform selection, defining app
specifications, and partnering with a suitable agency, you can embark on the journey of creating
your ideal e-commerce app.

Wegile is a reliable e-commerce app development
company with a team of dedicated e-commerce app developers committed to turning your app
concept into a fully functional mobile application, all within the agreed-upon timeline. Contact us
today to develop your ideal e-commerce app and enhance your online business presence to new levels.