The number one rule of e-commerce? Make it easy. Customers are more likely to spend time on your site and make a purchase if you keep things simple. Check out these tips from a recent article at Picture Business magazine.

• Ease of Use. People choose to shop online because it’s convenient, so make sure your site delivers. Walk through the buying process from your customers’ point of view. How many clicks does it take to make a purchase? Can you make a quick purchase directly from the homepage?
• First Impressions. Put your best foot forward with your homepage. Make sure your categories and departments are clear and easy to navigate. Display specials, sales and new products here, not buried clicks away.
• Getting Personal. After visitors have registered with your site, give their future shopping visits a personalized touch. It can be as simple as a greeting by name (“Enjoy your shopping experience, Nancy!”) when they log in.
• Picture Perfect. Use your images wisely to show off your products. Always allow for larger or rotating views. The more details, the better.
• Wish Lists. Offer your customers the ability to create a “wish list” of products they’d like to purchase down the road. You may even want to inform them when these items go on sale. This feature helps build relationships and keeps shoppers coming back again and again.