How to develop a successful and efficient online store
Keskitalo, Julia (2018)
Keskitalo, Julia
Satakunnan ammattikorkeakoulu
2018
All rights reserved
Julkaisun pysyvä osoite on
https://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi:amk-2018111917464
https://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi:amk-2018111917464
Tiivistelmä
The purpose of this thesis was to find out how to create a successful and efficient online store and to develop the already existing online store FunSense. The aim of the study was also to find out how digital marketing can be used to increase awareness. This thesis was completed for FunSense, which is an online store that sells aids and playthings aimed for children to support concentration. At the moment, the company’s main goal is to increase awareness and to attract new customers in the Finnish market.
Qualitative research method was chosen, and the data was collected by conducting a theme interview with the owner of the client company. The aim of the theme interview was to gain better understanding of the current situation and the future plans of the company but also to gain insights about the development needs at the moment. The theoretical part of the thesis focused on e-commerce and more specifically on the structure and visual design of an online store. Previous literature and research as well as author’s own experience as a user of online stores were exploited when planning the developments for the client company.
The research results showed that the most important elements of an online store are clear and balanced structure, attractive but simple visual design and ease of use. Content was found to be important in many ways and relevant information must be easily found from the site. The research findings led to more specific ideas on how
e-commerce can be developed now and in the future in order to increase awareness and attract new customers.
According to the results of the research, online store FunSense was physically developed and realistic recommendations were provided. The online store was developed by creating a new visual design and by improving the structure. A new logo and slogan were created. With the results of the thesis, the company can be guided towards more successful and efficient online store. By implementing the recommendations outlined in this thesis, e-commerce can be further improved and marketing targeted towards the right target audience, and hence improve the brand awareness. The information provided in this thesis can be used to make a marketing plan and to further develop the online store.
Qualitative research method was chosen, and the data was collected by conducting a theme interview with the owner of the client company. The aim of the theme interview was to gain better understanding of the current situation and the future plans of the company but also to gain insights about the development needs at the moment. The theoretical part of the thesis focused on e-commerce and more specifically on the structure and visual design of an online store. Previous literature and research as well as author’s own experience as a user of online stores were exploited when planning the developments for the client company.
The research results showed that the most important elements of an online store are clear and balanced structure, attractive but simple visual design and ease of use. Content was found to be important in many ways and relevant information must be easily found from the site. The research findings led to more specific ideas on how
e-commerce can be developed now and in the future in order to increase awareness and attract new customers.
According to the results of the research, online store FunSense was physically developed and realistic recommendations were provided. The online store was developed by creating a new visual design and by improving the structure. A new logo and slogan were created. With the results of the thesis, the company can be guided towards more successful and efficient online store. By implementing the recommendations outlined in this thesis, e-commerce can be further improved and marketing targeted towards the right target audience, and hence improve the brand awareness. The information provided in this thesis can be used to make a marketing plan and to further develop the online store.