Websites using K-eCommerce

Okay, let s break down k-eCommerce. It s a significant player in the B2B eCommerce space, and it s important to understand its strengths, weaknesses, and how it compares to the competition.

What is k-eCommerce?

k-eCommerce (now part of UniteUs) is a B2B eCommerce platform tightly integrated with Microsoft Dynamics 365 and Microsoft Dynamics AX (now Dynamics 365 Finance and Operations). It s designed to provide a comprehensive online sales experience for businesses that sell to other businesses, directly connecting to their ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) system. * Focus: B2B eCommerce, Microsoft Dynamics Integration * Key Features: * ERP Integration: Real-time synchronization with Dynamics 365 for inventory, pricing, customer data, order management, and more. This is a core differentiator. * B2B-Specific Functionality: Support for features like: * Customer-specific catalogs and pricing * Quote management * Account management (multiple users per account, roles, permissions) * Order approval workflows * PunchOut integration (for connecting to procurement systems like Ariba or Coupa) * Contract Pricing * Sales rep support tools

Revenue:

• k-eCommerce is part of a larger UniteUs portfolio, specific revenue data for just the k-eCommerce platform is not publicly available. Generally, B2B eCommerce platforms like k-eCommerce generate revenue through a combination of:
  • Software Licensing Fees: Typically a subscription model (monthly or annual).
  • Implementation Services: Fees for setting up the platform, integrating with Dynamics 365, customizing the solution, and training.
  • Transaction Fees: Some platforms may charge a small percentage of each transaction processed through the platform, but this is less common in the B2B space, especially with higher-end platforms like k-eCommerce.
  • Support and Maintenance Fees: Recurring fees for ongoing support, updates, and maintenance of the platform.
  • Add-on Modules/Features: Charges for additional functionality.

Alternatives:

k-eCommerce has several competitors, each with their strengths and weaknesses. The best alternative depends heavily on the specific needs and budget of the business. Here are some of the notable alternatives:

• OroCommerce: A strong open-source B2B eCommerce platform. Highly customizable and flexible, but requires more technical expertise to manage. A good option if you want maximum control and are comfortable with development.
• Magento Commerce (Adobe Commerce): A powerful and flexible eCommerce platform with B2B capabilities. While now part of Adobe, it still holds relevance. It s more complex than some other options and can be expensive.
• Shopify Plus: Shopify s enterprise solution. While primarily known for B2C, Shopify Plus has added B2B features. It s a good option if you want a user-friendly platform with a large app ecosystem, but its integration with Dynamics 365 may require third-party connectors.
• BigCommerce Enterprise: Another platform known more for B2C but that has expanded into B2B. Offers a good balance of ease of use and scalability. Like Shopify Plus, Dynamics 365 integration may require third-party connectors.
• Salesforce Commerce Cloud B2B: A powerful platform integrated with the Salesforce ecosystem. It s a good choice if you re already heavily invested in Salesforce.
• SAP Commerce Cloud: An enterprise-grade platform tightly integrated with SAP ERP systems.
• Infor Commerce: Another platform with a strong focus on ERP integration, specifically with Infor ERP systems.
• NetSuite SuiteCommerce: If you use NetSuite ERP, this is a logical choice for tight integration.
• Third-Party Connectors for Platforms like Shopify and BigCommerce: Several companies specialize in building connectors that bridge the gap between platforms like Shopify or BigCommerce and Dynamics 365. This can be a more affordable option if you prefer the ease of use of those platforms but still need ERP integration.

Here s a table summarizing the alternatives:

| Platform | Strengths | Weaknesses | Dynamics 365 Integration | |---------------------------|-------------------------------------------------------------------------------|------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|---------------------------| | k-eCommerce | Deep Dynamics 365 Integration, B2B-focused features | Can be more expensive, potentially less flexible than open-source options | Native | | OroCommerce | Highly customizable, Open-source, Flexible | Requires more technical expertise, potentially higher initial setup cost | Requires Integration | | Magento (Adobe Commerce) | Powerful, Scalable, Large ecosystem | Complex, Can be expensive | Requires Integration | | Shopify Plus | User-friendly, Large app ecosystem | Primarily B2C focused, Dynamics 365 integration may require third-party connectors | Requires Integration | | BigCommerce Enterprise | Balance of ease of use and scalability | Primarily B2C focused, Dynamics 365 integration may require third-party connectors | Requires Integration | | Salesforce Commerce Cloud| Integrated with Salesforce ecosystem | Can be expensive, best suited for companies heavily invested in Salesforce | Requires Integration | | SAP Commerce Cloud | Integrated with SAP ERP | Can be expensive, best suited for companies heavily invested in SAP ERP | Requires Integration | | NetSuite SuiteCommerce | Integrated with NetSuite ERP | Best suited for companies heavily invested in NetSuite ERP | Native (with NetSuite) |

Pricing:

• k-eCommerce pricing is not typically public. You need to contact their sales team for a custom quote.
• Factors that influence pricing:
  • Number of users: How many internal users will need access to the platform.
  • Transaction volume: The anticipated volume of sales through the platform.
  • Customization requirements: The level of customization needed for the platform.
  • Hosting options: Whether you choose cloud hosting or on-premise deployment (if available).
  • Support level: The level of support you require (e.g., standard, premium).
• Expect a significant upfront investment for implementation and potentially ongoing subscription fees. k-eCommerce is generally considered a higher-end B2B eCommerce solution, so it won t be the cheapest option.
• When comparing prices, be sure to consider the total cost of ownership, including implementation, customization, training, support, and ongoing maintenance.
• Consider the long-term ROI. While k-eCommerce may be more expensive upfront, its deep integration with Dynamics 365 can streamline operations and improve efficiency, leading to a higher return on investment in the long run.

Customer Care Details:

• Support Channels: k-eCommerce, like most enterprise software providers, offers customer care through various channels:
  • Phone Support: Typically available during business hours.
  • Email Support: For non-urgent issues.
  • Online Knowledge Base: A self-service resource with articles, FAQs, and documentation.
  • Ticketing System: To track and manage support requests.
  • Account Management: Dedicated account managers for larger clients.
  • Community Forums: A place for users to connect, share tips, and ask questions (availability varies).
• Service Level Agreements (SLAs): k-eCommerce likely has SLAs that define response times and resolution times for support requests. Review these carefully before signing a contract.
• Implementation Support: Critical for a platform like k-eCommerce. Ensure they provide comprehensive implementation services, including:
  • Project management
  • Requirements gathering
  • Configuration and customization
  • Data migration
  • Testing
  • Training
• Training: Proper training is essential for users to effectively use the platform. Inquire about the training options available (e.g., on-site training, online training, documentation).
• Reviews and Reputation: Check online reviews and testimonials to get a sense of the quality of their customer support. Look for patterns in the feedback. G2 and Capterra are good resources for software reviews.
• Customer Success Programs: Some companies offer customer success programs to proactively help clients achieve their goals with the platform. Ask if k-eCommerce has such a program.

In summary:

k-eCommerce is a strong contender if you need a B2B eCommerce platform with deep integration into Microsoft Dynamics 365. However, it s important to carefully evaluate your specific needs, budget, and technical capabilities and compare it to other alternatives to determine the best fit for your organization. Pay close attention to the total cost of ownership and the quality of customer support.