Top 7 Types of BigCommerce Integrations for Your BigCommerce Store
In this article, we’ll explore various essential types of BigCommerce integrations, including payment solutions, inventory management, marketing tools, and more, to help you understand how each can benefit your business.
Key Takeaways
Here are 7 types of BigCommerce integrations.
- B2B/Wholesale
- Analytics & Reporting
- Marketing
- Payments & Security
- Sales Channels
- ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning)
- Checkout
What is BigCommerce integration?
BigCommerce integration is a way to connect the BigCommerce platform with other systems or applications. This helps businesses add more features or automate tasks. For example, integrating with accounting software to manage finances better.
How It Works
Integrating BigCommerce with other tools usually involves using APIs or specific apps. APIs are like bridges that let different software talk to each other. Apps can be found in the BigCommerce store, which makes integration easier.
Benefits of BigCommerce Integration
Integrating BigCommerce with other systems or applications brings several advantages to businesses. Here’s a more detailed look at these benefits:
- Saves Time: Automation is a huge benefit. By integrating, repetitive tasks like order processing, inventory updates, and data entry can be automated. This reduces the need for manual input, saving hours of work.
- Improves Efficiency: Data synchronization between BigCommerce and other systems ensures information is up-to-date across platforms. For instance, when a sale happens, stock levels update automatically everywhere. This reduces errors and keeps data consistent.
- Expands Functionality: BigCommerce is powerful on its own, but integrating with other tools can add capabilities that aren’t available out of the box. From advanced marketing analytics to specialized customer service tools, integrations can enhance your store’s capabilities.
- Enhances Customer Experience: Integration can streamline the shopping experience. For example, integrating with a shipping solution can offer customers real-time shipping rates and tracking information. A better shopping experience can lead to more sales and repeat customers.
- Facilitates Better Decision Making: With integrations, businesses can gather and analyze data from various sources in one place. This comprehensive view allows for more informed decision-making. Knowing which products are bestsellers, which marketing efforts are paying off, and where there might be room for improvement helps in strategizing effectively.
- Increases Sales Opportunities: Integrating with marketplaces or social media platforms can expand your reach. This means your products are seen by more potential customers, increasing the chances of sales.
- Customization and Scalability: As your business grows, your needs might change. Integrations allow you to add or remove features as needed, providing flexibility and scalability. This means you can keep your store aligned with your business strategy and customer needs.
Successful integration of third-party applications is key to enhancing your online store’s features. For a deeper dive into creating bespoke integrations, consider exploring our complete guide on BigCommerce app development
Must-Have BigCommerce Integrations for Your Online Store
B2B/Wholesale
The B2B/Wholesale game was forecasted to reach $1.8 trillion by 2023 in the U.S. alone, according to Forrester. So, B2B apps are necessary. These apps are your ticket to customizing the shopping journey for those big-ticket buyers. Set custom prices, manage orders with a breeze, and make your B2B and wholesale customers feel right at home. It’s all about giving them what they need, exactly how they need it.
Benefits
- Offer special pricing to high-volume customers, making bulk purchases more appealing.
- Simplify the process of handling large orders, enhancing efficiency.
- Tailor the shopping journey for B2B and wholesale customers, meeting their unique needs.
Recommendations
Here are some BigCommerce integrations we suggest for you:
- BundleB2B
- Pepperi
- TradeGecko (now QuickBooks Commerce)
- Wholesale Gorilla
- Handshake by Shopify
Analytics & Reporting
Did you know data-driven organizations are 23 times more likely to pick up new customers? That gem comes from McKinsey, highlighting why Analytics & Reporting tools are non-negotiable. They’re your crystal ball into the business, offering insights that guide your every move, turning guesses into strategies that drive your store to new heights.
Benefits
- Use data insights to make smarter business choices.
- Understand customer behavior to tailor marketing strategies.
- Monitor and improve the store’s performance over time.
Recommendations
Check out these BigCommerce add-ons we recommend:
- Google Analytics
- Glew.io
- Databox
- Looker
- Hotjar
Marketing
Here’s a kicker: for every $1 you spend on email marketing, you could see a return of $42, DMA reports. That’s why Marketing tools are crucial. They’re your loudspeaker in a crowded room, helping your brand stand out. SEO, social media, you name it—these tools make sure your message hits the mark, pulling in traffic and building a loyal fanbase.
Benefits
- Attract more customers with effective marketing campaigns.
- Keep customers engaged and coming back for more.
- Get more value from your marketing spend with targeted strategies.
Recommendations
Here’s our list of suggested BigCommerce integrations:
- Mailchimp
- Klaviyo
- HubSpot
- Omnisend
- Yotpo
Payments & Security
With 17% of shopping cart abandonments linked to payment security worries, per Baymard Institute, it’s clear why Payments & Security are the bedrock of your online store. Offering a variety of secure, user-friendly payment options doesn’t just comfort your customers; it’s a trust seal for your brand, essential for a smooth shopping experience.
Benefits
- Build trust with secure payment processing.
- Offer customers their preferred payment methods.
- Improve checkout experience to keep customers from leaving.
Recommendations
Explore these top BigCommerce extensions we’ve picked for you:
- Stripe
- PayPal
- Square
- Authorize.net
- Braintree
Sales Channels
Harvard Business Review drops a truth bomb: 73% of shoppers are multi-channel mavens. That’s why Sales Channels apps are your golden ticket to omnipresence. Be it marketplaces or social media, these integrations make sure your products are just a click away, no matter where your customers chill.
Benefits
- Sell where your customers are, from marketplaces to social media.
- Keep inventory and pricing consistent across channels.
- Reach more customers and boost sales.
Recommendations
Take a look at these BigCommerce tools we think you’ll like:
- Facebook & Instagram by BigCommerce
- eBay by BigCommerce
- Amazon by BigCommerce
- Google Shopping by BigCommerce
- Pinterest by BigCommerce
ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning)
Implementing ERP solutions can amp up business outcomes, says Panorama Consulting Solutions. ERP apps are the unsung heroes, silently powering your operations from the shadows, making everything from inventory to customer service slicker than your average.
Benefits
- Centralize business processes for better efficiency.
- Keep all business information in one place.
- Use integrated information to serve customers better.
Recommendations
Here are our picks for BigCommerce apps to enhance your site:
- NetSuite
- SAP Business One
- Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central
- Odoo
- Acumatica
Checkout
Lastly, the Checkout process can make or break a sale. A seamless experience can lift your conversion rates by a whopping 35.62%, according to Baymard Institute. That’s huge. It means turning those fence-sitters into happy customers, making sure the last click in their journey is the most satisfying one.
Benefits
- A smooth checkout process encourages more sales.
- Make the final step of the buying process quick and easy.
- Offer various checkout options to meet customer preferences.
Recommendations
We’ve selected these BigCommerce integrations for your business:
- One Page Checkout
- Fast Checkout
- Checkout Boost
- Bolt
- Afterpay
How to Set Up a BigCommerce Integration
Setting up a BigCommerce integration can streamline your online store, making it more efficient and user-friendly. Whether you’re integrating payment gateways, shipping services, or inventory management tools, the process is straightforward. Here’s a simple guide to get you started.
Step 1: Identify Your Needs
Before diving into the setup, pinpoint what you need. Are you looking to improve your checkout process, enhance marketing efforts, or manage inventory more efficiently? Understanding your needs will help you choose the right integrations.
Step 2: Explore the BigCommerce App Marketplace
Visit the BigCommerce App Marketplace. It’s filled with a wide variety of integrations across different categories. Use the search function or browse by category to find the apps that match your needs.
Step 3: Choose Your Integration
Once you’ve found a potential integration, take the time to read through its description, reviews, and pricing details. This information will help you make an informed decision about whether it’s the right fit for your store.
Step 4: Install the App
Installing the app is usually as simple as clicking “Install” and following the on-screen instructions. Some apps might require you to create an account on the service provider’s platform or enter specific details to connect your BigCommerce store.
Step 5: Configure Settings
After installation, configure the app settings according to your needs. This might involve setting up payment methods for a payment gateway, defining shipping rules, or syncing your inventory. Each app will have its own set of configuration steps, so follow the provided instructions carefully.
Step 6: Test the Integration
Before going live, test the integration to ensure it works as expected. Place test orders, check the data flow between systems, or use the app’s test mode if available. This step is crucial to avoid any disruptions to your store’s operations.
What to Do When Integrations You Want Aren’t Available in the BigCommerce App Marketplace
Sometimes, the exact integration you’re looking for isn’t available in the BigCommerce App Marketplace. This situation can be frustrating, but there are several steps you can take to find a solution or an alternative that works for your online store.
Look for an Alternative Solution
First, try to find an alternative app that offers similar functionality. The BigCommerce App Marketplace is vast, and there might be other apps that can do what you need, even if they’re not exactly the same as what you were originally looking for. Use keywords related to the functionality you need in the search bar and explore the options available.
Custom Development
If no existing app meets your needs, consider custom development. You can hire a developer to create a custom integration for your store. This option gives you flexibility and ensures the integration does exactly what you need it to do. Check out BigCommerce’s partner directory to find certified developers who are familiar with the platform.
Use a Third-Party Integration Tool
There are third-party tools like Zapier that can help connect your BigCommerce store with thousands of other apps and services. These tools use triggers and actions to automate workflows between your store and other tools, even if a direct integration doesn’t exist in the marketplace.
Contact the App Developers
If you find an app that’s close to what you need but not quite right, reach out to the app developers. They might be willing to add the functionality you’re looking for, or they may already be working on it for a future update. Getting in touch with developers can also give you insight into the roadmap of the app’s features.
Stay Updated
Finally, keep an eye on the BigCommerce App Marketplace for new integrations. The ecosystem is always growing, and new apps are added regularly. What isn’t available today might become available in the future. You can also subscribe to BigCommerce’s newsletter or follow them on social media to get updates on new integrations and features.
FAQs: Bigcommerce Integration
What is the difference between a custom integration and a pre-built integration?
Custom integration is specifically designed for your business needs, allowing your ecommerce platform to connect with other systems in a way that’s tailored to your requirements. It’s more expensive and takes longer to develop than pre-built integration, which is a general solution that’s quicker and cheaper to implement but might not meet all your specific needs.
What factors should be considered when selecting the right ecommerce integration solution for a business?
When selecting an ecommerce integration, consider its compatibility with your current systems, the necessary features, scalability, customer support quality, and cost. These factors help ensure the integration supports your business effectively.
How can enterprise ecommerce businesses evaluate the ROI of ecommerce integration projects?
To evaluate the ROI of ecommerce integration, calculate all related costs and measure them against the benefits, such as increased sales and improved efficiency. A positive ROI means the benefits exceed the costs. Consider long-term benefits like customer retention, which are important for sustained business growth.
Final thoughts
BigCommerce integrations play a key role in the success of any ecommerce business by adding necessary functionalities that help in managing the store more efficiently. From improving payment processes with secure gateways to streamlining inventory across multiple channels, the right integrations can significantly impact your operation’s effectiveness and customer satisfaction. Choosing the appropriate BigCommerce integrations is a strategic decision that should align with your business goals and customer needs, ensuring your online store remains competitive and responsive to market demands.