PrestaShop

PrestaShop 8

PrestaShop is an open-source e-commerce platform that allows the creation and management of online stores. Founded in 2007 by the French company PrestaShop SA, this platform has gained popularity worldwide due to its flexibility, scalability, and the wide range of features available. As of September 2021, PrestaShop was used by over 300,000 online stores and is available in 60 languages.

Advantages of PrestaShop

Architecture and Technology

PrestaShop is based on LAMP technology (Linux, Apache, MySQL, PHP), but it can also be run on other server configurations. The system uses an MVC (Model-View-Controller) architecture, making it modular and easy to develop.

User Interface and Dashboard

The administrative interface is intuitive and offers a wide range of tools for managing products, orders, customers, statistics, and various aspects of the store. It’s also easy to customize the store’s appearance with different themes and templates.

Plugins and Modules

One of the main advantages of PrestaShop is its extensive database of plugins and modules, which add various functionalities to the store, such as payments, SEO, inventory management, etc. There is an active community of developers constantly creating new additions.

E-commerce Features

• Product Management: PrestaShop allows advanced product catalog management, including various product variants, sets, digital products, and much more.
• Order Management: The system offers comprehensive tools for processing orders, including the ability to manage invoices, returns, and discounts.
• SEO: PrestaShop is search engine friendly and offers various SEO tools, such as redirects, meta tags, and readable URLs.
• Analytics and Statistics: Advanced tools for monitoring KPIs, traffic analysis, and user behavior.

Security

PrestaShop offers various security features, such as protection against XSS, CSRF, and SQL Injection attacks. Additionally, there are many external modules that can enhance the store’s security level.

Customization and Scalability

It is a very flexible platform; it can be customized to meet the needs of both small and large businesses. Thanks to its open architecture, PrestaShop can be expanded with almost any function.

Support and Community

Although it is an open-source solution, PrestaShop offers various technical support plans. Additionally, an active community and extensive documentation facilitate problem-solving.

Implementing PrestaShop – What it entails

In our company specializing in implementing online stores on the PrestaShop platform, the implementation process takes place in four main phases: Analysis, Graphic Design, Programming, and Testing. Each of these phases is crucial for the project’s success and has its unique features and tasks to perform.

The Analysis phase is the moment when we discuss all the client’s needs, expectations, and functionalities the store should contain. This is where all successes begin because accurately understanding the client’s needs and market is the foundation for building an effective online store.

After completing the analysis, we move on to Graphic Design. Knowing the client’s precise needs, our experienced designers create a visual prototype of the store, which is not only aesthetic but also functional and conversion-oriented. Design here serves not only aesthetics; it primarily facilitates sales and distinguishes the store from the competition.

Once the graphic prototype is approved, we begin the Programming phase, which itself consists of several stages. The first is the Configuration of the implementation environment, where we prepare everything to write the code in the most efficient and secure way. Then, we proceed to the Implementation of the main purchase path – the heart of every online store. Here, the customer decides whether to make a purchase or leave the page. After this stage, we focus on Customizing the administrative panel to make store management as simple as possible for the client. The next step involves Integrations with various external services such as payments, deliveries, or inventory systems. We also don’t forget about Implementing subpages such as blogs, FAQs, or category pages. The final element is Customizations – any individual changes and functions the client would like to introduce beyond standard options.

The last phase is Testing. There is no room for errors in the store’s operation, so we conduct detailed tests of functionality, performance, and security. Only after they are successfully completed is the store ready for the official launch.

Throughout the entire implementation process, our clients are kept informed of progress and can count on our support at every project stage. This comprehensive approach ensures that implementations carried out by our company are efficient, safe, and tailored to the needs of each client.

Starting cooperation on PrestaShop implementation

We start cooperation on creating the implementation plan with a workshop. Why? Because we realize that every business is different and requires an individual approach. The workshops involve an intensive session during which we define the detailed business needs and create buyer personas. Buyer personas, or profiled „people” representing typical customers, are extremely important because we are creating the store for them. The ultimate goal is to create a sales platform that is as closely matched to the expectations of the target users as possible.

One of the more critical elements after the workshops is defining the requirements and dividing them using the Moscow method, which helps us and the client define what is „Must-have,” „Could-have,” „Should-have,” or „Won’t-have” in the project. This way, we can focus on what is most important and what will constitute the core of our Minimum Viable Product (MVP). The MVP is such a version of the store that contains only the most crucial functions necessary for the platform to operate and bring business benefits but is flexible enough to be expanded in the future. Thus, the implemented store will be cost-effective, and additional functionalities can be reinvested from the generated income.

After the Workshops, when the functional scope is already clearly defined, we move on to the Graphic Design stage. Here, our team of designers interacts with the analyses and buyer personas, creating a design that is not only aesthetically pleasing but primarily functional and oriented towards high conversion. The visual identity of the store is important, but never at the expense of usability and easy navigation for the end user.

Based on these first two phases of Analysis and Graphic Design, we can very precisely determine the time and cost of the entire implementation. This allows for full transparency and control over the project from the client’s side. It’s easy to notice that the beginning of cooperation is not a moment when we, as the contractor, impose ready-made solutions. It’s a time of intense, two-way communication, laying the foundation for the entire future project.

Signing the contract and starting the actual programming work is the next phase, but what we develop at the beginning is crucial for the efficiency and success of the entire venture. Thanks to this approach, the client orders individual phases and can make a decision about starting the next phase at each stage. It’s worth noting that we can define a preliminary budget based on our over 9 years of experience in implementations, and a very accurate determination is based on the analyses and graphic design.

Implementation phases and stages of PrestaShop

Implementation phases:

1. Analysis
   Firstly, we organize workshops with the client, where we define business needs and create buyer personas. This stage gathers all the information necessary to create a functional store.
2. Graphic Design
   After completing the analyses, our team of designers creates a visual prototype of the store. The design is created with the target users in mind and aims to increase conversion.
3. Programming
   In this stage, we execute the technical part of the project. Based on previous analyses and prototypes, programmers proceed to coding.
4. Testing
   The last phase is tests aimed at detecting and fixing any potential errors. Functionality, performance, and security tests are conducted.

Programming phase stages:

1. Setting up the deployment environment
   Establishing and configuring the environment in which the store will operate. Here, all technical preparations take place.
2. Implementing the main purchasing path
   Implementation and programming of key elements such as the shopping cart, purchase process, payments, etc.
3. Customizing the administrative panel
   Personalizing the administrative panel to make managing the store as efficient and intuitive for the client as possible.
4. Integrations
   Connecting the store with external systems, such as payment systems, inventory management, or various APIs.
5. Implementing subpages
   Creating and implementing additional subpages, such as blogs, FAQs, or product pages.
6. Customizations
   Final work on individual functions and elements that are specific to a given store.

Is it worth implementing PrestaShop?

When thinking about implementing an online store, one of the first questions that come to mind is, „Is it worth implementing custom software instead of using ready-made stores?” The answer to this question is complex and depends on many factors, such as market specificity, business needs. But if you are considering the PrestaShop platform, we have several arguments that may help you make a decision.

PrestaShop is one of the most popular e-commerce platforms in the world. Built on PHP technology and using the MySQL database, it is not only scalable but also flexible. Thanks to the large number of available modules, it can be easily adapted to individual needs. Moreover, as open-source software, you can modify it according to your own needs without additional licensing fees.

Our experience shows that a well-designed and implemented store on the PrestaShop platform can significantly increase business efficiency. Not only by increasing conversion but also by optimizing various business processes, such as managing what the user sees or sales analysis. The undeniable advantage is also the SEO capabilities that PrestaShop offers „out of the box”.

However, implementing PrestaShop is also a challenge that requires commitment and appropriate resources. Not every company has its own programmers familiar with this platform or a marketing team knowledgeable in e-commerce. Here, companies specializing in implementations, such as ours, come to the rescue. We offer comprehensive services, from needs analysis, through graphic design, programming, to testing and post-implementation development support.

It’s also worth remembering that every implementation is an investment that must pay off. In the case of PrestaShop, thanks to its flexibility and scalability, ROI (return on investment) is usually very satisfactory, especially in the medium and long term for companies with a monthly turnover above 80 000 euros gross.

In summary, if you are considering implementing an online store, PrestaShop is one of the most valuable options on the market. With its flexibility, scalability, and potential to increase business efficiency, investing in this platform usually pays off. Of course, like any investment, it requires the right approach and commitment, but with our support, the implementation process becomes much simpler and more efficient.

What are the costs of implementing PrestaShop?

When considering the implementation of an online store, one of the most pressing questions is always the issue of costs. There is no definitive answer to this question, as the costs of implementing PrestaShop can vary significantly depending on many factors. Below, we present several elements that most influence the final price.

1. Functional scope
   The functional scope of the store has a huge impact on the implementation cost. Will it be a simple store with a few functions, or an advanced platform with numerous integrations and custom solutions? The more complex the store, the higher the implementation cost.
2. Graphic design
   A professionally executed design is not only a higher price but also added value in terms of user experience. If you expect an individual graphic design, you should consider additional costs.
3. External integrations
   If your store is to be integrated with other systems, such as payment systems, CRM, ERP, or external warehouses, it also generates additional costs.
4. Customizations and modifications
   Any additional function or modification that is not available in standard PrestaShop modules requires an individual approach and is additionally priced.
5. Support and maintenance
   It is also worth remembering the costs associated with maintenance and technical support after implementation. It’s good to include this item in the budget from the planning stage.
6. SEO and marketing
   SEO optimization or marketing campaigns are equally important elements that will affect the final cost of implementation.
7. Testing phase
   Tests are necessary to check if everything works according to assumptions. They cannot be skipped, and their scope and duration will also affect the costs.

We usually offer clients several pricing options – from more economical ones based on ready-made solutions to advanced, individualized options. However, it’s worth remembering that savings at the beginning can backfire in the future, e.g., in the form of lower system flexibility or lower conversion.

It’s worth emphasizing that investing in a professionally made online store usually pays off. A good platform is not only a sales tool but also a company’s business card in the online world, which can significantly affect its image and perception by customers. Ultimately, the decision about costs should be the result of thoughtful analysis, taking into account both short- and long-term business goals.

How much does it cost to implement an online store?

PrestaShop is free in its basic version, but various modules and themes are paid. Additionally, costs may arise in the context of hosting, technical support, and adjustments.

In short, PrestaShop is a comprehensive and flexible solution for those who want to set up an online store. It offers many 'out-of-the-box’ functions as well as the possibility of expansion and customization of the system to individual needs.

How much does it cost to maintain a store after implementing PrestaShop?

After completing the implementation process of an online store on the PrestaShop platform, entrepreneurs often ask themselves about the costs associated with its further maintenance. It’s worth thinking about this already at the beginning when deciding on implementation. This is not an issue that can be ignored, as regular maintenance and servicing of the store are key to its smooth and efficient operation.

In our experience, on average, about 20 hours per month is enough for basic servicing of the store. This includes minor corrections, updates, and introducing small functional changes. However, this is an indicative value, as the actual number of hours may depend on many factors, such as the size and complexity of the store, the number of integrations, or specific customer needs.

The cost of maintaining the store is directly related to our hourly rate for servicing. You can obtain information about our hourly rate by contacting us directly, and we will gladly provide all the necessary information.

It’s worth emphasizing that regular store maintenance is an investment that usually pays off. Updates and conversion optimizations can significantly affect the store’s performance, which in turn leads to higher conversion rates and greater revenue. Additionally, professional technical support allows for quick resolution of any problems, which is extremely important in the dynamically changing e-commerce environment.

Being aware of potential expenses allows you to better plan your business and protect yourself against surprises that may affect your company’s financial liquidity.

Starting an online store

Before deciding to implement an online store, it’s worth considering which platform will be most suitable for your business, especially at the initial stage. Although PrestaShop offers a rich range of functionalities and is highly configurable, it is not always the best solution for everyone.

If you are just starting your adventure with e-commerce, considering platforms such as SaaS (Software as a Service) like Shopify may be a more efficient and less risky choice. Shopify offers a wide range of ready-made functionalities, is significantly less time-consuming to implement, and does not require a large budget at the start.

However, it should be noted that such platforms have certain limitations, especially when it comes to individualization and unique functionalities. In practice, however, for stores generating monthly revenues up to about 100 thousand euros gross, these limitations usually are not a problem. At this stage, it’s more important to test the market potential and understand customer needs than to build advanced, personalized solutions.

If, however, your store starts generating higher revenues and you need greater flexibility and the possibility of adjusting it to specific needs, SaaS platforms may turn out to be too limiting. Then it’s worth considering migrating to a more advanced platform like PrestaShop, which offers a range of customization and integration possibilities.

In short, the choice between PrestaShop and a SaaS platform like Shopify will depend on the stage at which your business is. If you are just starting with online sales, choosing PrestaShop will be a poor choice. If you want to increase sales, which requires creating competitive advantages, PrestaShop will definitely allow you to scale sales from hundreds of thousands to millions of euro in monthly revenue.

How to set up an online store on PrestaShop

PrestaShop offers the possibility of downloading and installing the software on a server with LAMP configuration, but without programming knowledge and a well-thought-out plan, you will only be dealing with a raw platform that is not adjusted to the specific needs of your business and your customers.

How to set up an online clothing store

If you are thinking of launching a clothing store, PrestaShop may be the ideal platform choice when you want to scale sales. But before you get to the technical side of things, it’s worth understanding that tools are just one piece of the puzzle. Read this page about PrestaShop software, and you’ll understand when to choose the PrestaShop platform and when this choice is good.

How to set up an online cosmetics store

If your goal is to create an online store for cosmetic products, PrestaShop provides solid foundations on which to develop such a business. But remember, a tool is just a tool – success depends on many other factors, and we wrote about it above in the compendium of knowledge about PrestaShop.

Prestashop templates

In the world of e-commerce, the look and functionality of the site are among the key factors that affect the user experience and, ultimately, the success of your online store. PrestaShop offers a wide range of templates that can be customized for different types of businesses, from clothing stores to online drugstores.

We definitely suggest creating an individual graphic design, yet it’s worth knowing a few things about templates. Here are some tips on choosing and customizing a template in PrestaShop.

Recognizing Needs

Before purchasing or choosing a template, you must understand what your store needs. What is your target? Will your store offer a large number of products or focus on a few, but exclusive articles? The answers to these questions will help you understand which template elements are most important for you.

Analysis and Selection of Template

PrestaShop offers a wide selection of templates, both free and paid. Free options are often insufficient. Paid templates offer more features and professional design. Pay attention to the opinions of other users and ratings, which can help in making a choice. The choice is difficult because you do not know the quality of the template you are buying.

Customizing the Template

Even the best template requires some adjustments. PrestaShop allows editing many elements, from color schemes and typography to the layout of elements on the page.

Testing and Optimization

After implementing the chosen template, it is necessary to thoroughly test it. This includes not only checking how the template displays on different devices and browsers but also its impact on the loading speed of the page and other UX aspects.

Updates and Changes

The e-commerce market is dynamic, meaning your site should also evolve. Regularly monitor the effectiveness of various design elements and do not hesitate to make changes.

PrestaShop Modules

Modules are one of the greatest advantages of the PrestaShop platform, allowing online store owners to tailor the functionality of their service to individual business needs and specifics. Thanks to them, the basic capabilities of the platform can be extended with various functions, from inventory and customer service management through marketing and SEO, to integration with various payment systems or analytical tools.

PrestaShop offers a wide range of modules, both free and paid, available in the official PrestaShop Addons store. There, you can find various solutions that will facilitate store management, increase its functionality, and improve communication with customers. For example, there are modules for automating logistics processes, managing customer relationships (CRM), or advanced data analysis.

One of the biggest advantages of modules in PrestaShop is their flexibility. Thanks to the open system architecture, developers have the opportunity to create their own, personalized solutions. This opens wide possibilities for store owners to customize the platform to their own, often very specific, needs.

Modules are also an excellent way to introduce novelties to the store without interfering with its basic code. Thanks to this, updating and introducing new functions is much easier and less time-consuming.

However, it should be remembered that not all modules are equally good. Before installing them, pay attention to the opinions of other users and whether the module is regularly updated by its creators. Old, not updated modules can introduce errors and security vulnerabilities to the system, which is undesirable in the case of running a professional online store.

PrestaShop SEO

PrestaShop is one of the e-commerce platforms that offers a wide range of features related to search engine optimization (SEO). This is a key element for any online store that wants to attract organic traffic and increase visibility in search results. In this chapter, let’s take a closer look at how PrestaShop handles SEO aspects.

To start, it’s worth mentioning that PrestaShop has built-in features enabling the generation of SEO-friendly links. This significantly increases the readability of URLs and makes them more attractive to search engines. The user also has the possibility to manually set meta descriptions and page titles, allowing for more precise targeting of keywords.

One of the key elements is also the possibility of adding so-called breadcrumbs, i.e., navigational paths. They help the user understand where they are within the store, and search engines to understand the structure of the site.

Image optimization is another important SEO aspect that PrestaShop pays a lot of attention to. The platform offers tools for image compression and the possibility of adding alternative texts, which is beneficial both from the user experience perspective and for SEO.

PrestaShop also allows for advanced code-level optimization. Thanks to its open architecture, developers can introduce their modifications, which further increase the SEO potential. For example, additional SEO analysis modules can be integrated directly into the administrative panel.

Integration with Google Analytics and other analytical tools is another plus. It allows for effective monitoring of SEO efforts and making necessary changes on an ongoing basis.

It should also be emphasized that the community around PrestaShop regularly creates new modules and plugins related to SEO, which can be easily integrated with the platform. This means that the store can be continuously optimized and adjusted to changing search engine algorithms.

Integrations PrestaShop

Integrations in the PrestaShop ecosystem are one of the most important features that attract entrepreneurs to this platform. Its open architecture and wide customization possibilities offered by PrestaShop allow for seamless connection with various external tools and platforms, which is essential in the dynamically changing e-commerce environment.

One of the most popular integration areas is online payments. PrestaShop offers integrated modules for handling various payment gateways, significantly facilitating and speeding up the purchase process for customers. You can integrate systems like PayPal, Stripe, or local payment gateways adapted to the specifics of a given market.

Integrations with Customer Relationship Management (CRM) systems such as Salesforce or HubSpot are also gaining popularity. They allow for the automation of many customer service-related processes, such as segmentation, email campaign management, or customer data analysis.

Equally important are integrations with Warehouse Management Systems (WMS) and Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP). Implementing such an integration allows for smoother inventory management and the automation and optimization of logistics processes.

Integrations with social media platforms are another critical element, especially in the context of the growing role of social media in marketing and sales. The ability to easily connect the PrestaShop store with Facebook, Instagram, or Pinterest opens new opportunities for reaching customers and automating marketing activities.

Integration with analytical tools cannot be forgotten either. Google Analytics or other specialized analytical tools can be easily integrated with PrestaShop, allowing for detailed tracking and analysis of user behavior and marketing campaign effectiveness.

Hosting PrestaShop

Choosing the right hosting for your PrestaShop store is one of the key elements that can significantly impact its success. Starting from performance and speed, it’s important to pay attention to resources such as CPU, RAM, and disk space. A slow-running store can discourage potential customers, directly affecting conversion rates and profits. Another important aspect is the reliability of the server, where uptime should be at least 99.9% to minimize the risk of store unavailability.

Scalability is just as important, especially if you plan to grow your business. A good hosting provider should offer flexible options that allow easy and quick scaling of resources as your needs grow. Technical support and customer service are invaluable, especially for those who do not have extensive experience in managing servers. Ideally, the provider should offer 24/7 support and have positive reviews in this regard.

Security is another criterion worth paying attention to. Good hosting should offer various security mechanisms, such as firewalls, antivirus scanning, and regular backups. Some providers also offer packages specially optimized for PrestaShop, which can significantly simplify store management.

The server’s location can also affect the store’s performance, so it’s worth choosing a server that is as close as possible to your main target market. Finally, although not least importantly, is the pricing issue. Always balance quality and price, keeping in mind that cheap solutions may turn out to be insufficient in the long run. Choosing hosting is not just a matter of costs but primarily an investment in the quality of services you offer to your customers. Therefore, it is advisable to spend the right amount of time understanding your own needs and the capabilities of various hosting providers.

PrestaShop friendly links

PrestaShop is one of the e-commerce platforms that offers advanced tools in this area. Here are the system’s capabilities.

Simple Configuration

PrestaShop enables easy configuration of friendly links without the need to interfere with server configuration files or edit code. Often, it’s a matter of a few clicks in the administrative panel.

URL Personalization

From the administrative panel, PrestaShop allows full control over the URL structure. For example, you can decide whether to include the category name, product identifier, or other elements you consider important in the address.

Better Positioning

Friendly links are better indexed by search engines, which is beneficial for positioning. PrestaShop also offers the possibility to add meta descriptions and keywords, which, combined with properly constructed URLs, gives a strong tool for SEO optimization.

User Readability

Friendly links are also… friendly for the user. A readable and easily understandable URL can significantly affect the user experience and encourage further exploration of the site.

Navigation Optimization

Friendly links can help in better organizing the site structure, which also facilitates navigation for visitors. A well-organized and logical URL layout can help users (and search engines) understand the hierarchy and structure of your store.

Improving CTR

Click-through rate (CTR) is also an aspect that can be improved by using friendly links. A well-constructed, descriptive URL can increase the chances of clicking in search results.

Compatibility with Different Languages

PrestaShop offers support for different character sets and languages, allowing for the creation of friendly URLs also in an international context.

PrestaShop vs WooCommerce

Architecture

• PrestaShop: It is dedicated e-commerce software, designed for scalability and expansion. It can be customized in various ways, from simple stores to complex e-commerce platforms.
• WooCommerce: It is a plugin for WordPress, which means it is not an independent e-commerce software and only extends the management panel for websites. The solution is oriented towards very small projects and is good if you have a maximum of 1-10 products.

Cost of Implementation and Maintenance

• PrestaShop: Requires a larger initial financial commitment, especially when it comes to implementation and customization of the store. Costs can also be significant if you add specialized modules and features.
• WooCommerce: Cheaper at the start, especially if you already have a WordPress site. However, it is completely uneconomical when building sales from scratch and there are available SaaS systems like Shopify.

Scalability and Complexity

• PrestaShop: Better for managing a larger number of products and more complex operations. It also offers more options for personalization and store function customization.
• WooCommerce: Less scalable and may cause problems with a large assortment and site traffic. With a larger number of products, the system becomes harder to manage and may introduce errors causing daily frustration in order handling and store management.

Summary

• PrestaShop: If you run a medium or large e-commerce venture and care about scalability and customization possibilities, PrestaShop is more suitable.
• WooCommerce: Not recommended by us for large, complex stores due to limitations in scalability and management. Moreover, it is much more efficient to start by choosing a SaaS solution.

PrestaShop vs Magento

Is it worth switching from PrestaShop to Magento? But instead of focusing on features and technologies, we will analyze this decision through the lens of finances.

Implementation Cost: Magento or PrestaShop?

First, we must answer a fundamental question: how much does it cost to implement a store on both platforms? Contrary to common opinions, the cost of implementing Magento is significantly higher. According to our experience, implementation on Magento can be up to three times more expensive than on PrestaShop.

Why Is Magento More Expensive?

There are several reasons for this price disparity. First, Magento is more popular in Western countries, where developer rates are higher. Second, Magento is technically complex, meaning more work for developers. Third, Polish developers often prefer foreign clients, which additionally raises costs for local entrepreneurs.

Who Complains About Which Platform?

Complaints about PrestaShop are common, but does that mean Magento is better? Not necessarily. Those who invest in Magento often have a larger budget and are more prepared for additional expenses, so they complain less about the system. In contrast, smaller entrepreneurs using PrestaShop are more sensitive to every expense and thus quicker to express their dissatisfaction. Moreover, PrestaShop has a low entry threshold, meaning the quality of implementation is as good as the person behind it.

When to Decide on the Switch?

If your store generates revenues of several million euro per month, considering switching to Magento may only then make sense. But if your store earns significantly less, staying on PrestaShop and investing in better technical support may be a more cost-effective solution.

Summary

Is it worth switching to Magento? The answer is very individual and depends on the specific situation. One thing is certain, this decision should not be made impulsively or based on temporary problems, but after a thorough technical and financial analysis. Turn to us for an audit to verify why the current platform is causing you problems.

PrestaShop vs Shopify

Implementation Cost

• PrestaShop: As you know, even though it is open-source software, the implementation cost can be significant. Implementation, especially with individual adjustments and modules, can cost even 10-40 thousand euros. It’s also necessary to add the costs of hosting and ongoing maintenance.
• Shopify: It is a subscription-based platform. It’s less expensive initially, due to the absence of implementation costs and including hosting in the price. However, remember about the transaction fee and potential charges for additional apps. This allows you to start sales from very low costs, but with a series of limitations in fitting individual needs. It’s also important to note that from a certain level of transaction volume, the annual cost will be significantly higher than PrestaShop, where only the implementation is high initially, and maintenance is relatively inexpensive.

Customization vs Ready-Made Solutions

• PrestaShop: Thanks to being open-source, it can be infinitely customized to your needs. This is a big advantage, especially for larger companies with specific needs and a higher budget for implementation and maintenance.
• Shopify: This platform is much less flexible in terms of customizations. It offers various templates and apps, but when it comes to deep customization for specific business needs, Shopify may not suffice.

Maintenance Cost

• PrestaShop: After implementation, maintenance costs can be variable. Charges for hosting, updates, technical support, and additional modules can add up.
• Shopify: A fixed monthly fee and transaction fees make the costs more predictable, but they can increase if your store starts generating significant turnovers. Which ultimately limits you and causes costs higher than implementing a store on PrestaShop. Therefore, you must verify your plans and verify the size of sales.

Summary

• PrestaShop: If you have specific needs and a larger budget for implementing individual solutions and maintenance, PrestaShop might be for you. It offers extensive customization and adjustment possibilities to individual needs.
• Shopify: If you’re just starting your e-commerce journey, have a limited budget, and don’t need advanced customization, Shopify might be more suitable for you.

The choice between PrestaShop and Shopify largely depends on individual needs, budget, and technical skills. Both solutions have their pros and cons, so it’s worth analyzing them carefully before making a decision. We are happy to help with that; just contact us.

E-commerce platforms ranking

Rankings of various platforms for online stores are widely available on the Internet and at first glance may seem like a useful tool for making a decision. However, basing your choice solely on such rankings can be misleading and potentially harmful to your business. Below you will find several reasons why you should approach these rankings with caution.

Subjectivity and Lack of Context

Rankings are often created by individuals or organizations that have their own criteria and preferences. What is important for one person may not necessarily be important for you. Moreover, these rankings rarely take into account the context specific to your business.

Lack of Individual Analysis

Each online store is different and has different needs. Some platforms are better for managing a large number of products, others are better for small, more niche ventures. Rankings rarely pay attention to these nuances, focusing on general criteria that may not be relevant to you.

Inflation of Results and Marketing

Unfortunately, not all rankings are created objectively. Some may be sponsored by the e-commerce platforms themselves, which obviously influences their place in the ranking. Others may be created with the aim of generating site traffic and do not necessarily aim to provide reliable information.

Lack of Updates

The e-commerce world is dynamic, and platforms are regularly updated and improved. Old rankings may not reflect the current situation, making them outdated and potentially misleading.

Choosing Based on a Single Criterion

Rankings usually limit themselves to a few criteria, such as price, ease of use, or features. However, they do not take into account other important aspects, such as customer support, scalability, or integrations with other tools, which may be key for your business.

Prestashop reviews

PrestaShop is one of the most valued tools for e-commerce management, especially in terms of flexibility and customization possibilities.

Flexibility and Scalability

One of the most important advantages of PrestaShop is its flexibility. With its open-source architecture, the platform offers almost unlimited customization possibilities. Everything, from the user interface to advanced back-end features, can be modified according to individual business needs.

Rich Library of Plugins and Themes

PrestaShop can boast one of the richest libraries of modules and themes in the e-commerce market. This means that even without advanced programming knowledge, it is easy to add new features and change the look of the store.

Advanced SEO Features

PrestaShop offers a wide range of advanced SEO features, allowing for effective store positioning in search engines. The platform gives full control over metadata, URLs, tags, and other elements that influence online visibility.

Integrated Analytical Tools

PrestaShop includes integrated tools for analysis and reporting, which enable monitoring various aspects of store activity, from site traffic to conversions. This allows for continuous optimization of operations based on real data.

Good Technical Support

Although PrestaShop is an open-source platform, there are many ways to obtain professional support. A large and active community, forums, and various paid support options ensure that help is always at hand.

High Performance

When properly configured, the PrestaShop platform is extremely efficient. Thanks to various caching options and optimization possibilities, stores operate quickly and smoothly, translating into a better user experience and higher conversion rates.

Data Control

Being the owner and having full control over your data is another advantage of using PrestaShop. This means you are not tied to a single provider and can freely move your store between different hosting services.

In short, PrestaShop offers a wide range of advanced features and great flexibility, making it one of the most powerful and scalable solutions for e-commerce. If you are looking for a platform that will grow with your business, PrestaShop is one of the safest choices.