Websites using Selz

Okay, let s break down Selz, covering its overview, revenue, alternatives, pricing, and customer care details.

What is Selz?

Selz (now owned by BigCommerce and being phased out) was a software platform designed to help small businesses and entrepreneurs sell products and services online. It offered a suite of tools to create online stores, sell through social media, and manage payments and orders. It was often marketed as a user-friendly and affordable alternative to more complex e-commerce platforms.

Key Features of Selz (While it was Active):

• Online Store Builder: Allowed users to create and customize online stores with drag-and-drop functionality.
• Payment Processing: Integrated with various payment gateways like Stripe and PayPal.
• Product Management: Enabled users to list, organize, and manage their products.
• Marketing Tools: Included features for email marketing, social media integration, and discounts.
• Mobile App: Offered a mobile app for managing the store on the go.
• Sell on Social Media: Allowed selling directly through platforms like Facebook and Instagram.
• Sell Digital Products: Allowed to sell downloadable items.
• Inventory Management: Helped track stock levels.
• Analytics and Reporting: Provided insights into store performance.

Revenue (Historical Context):

• Private Company: Selz was privately held before being acquired by BigCommerce. As a private company, it didn t publicly disclose its revenue figures.
• Subscription-Based Model: Selz generated revenue primarily through subscription fees charged to its users.

Alternatives to Selz:

Since Selz is being phased out, it s crucial to look at alternatives. Here are some popular options, categorized by their target audience and features:

• Shopify: One of the most popular and comprehensive e-commerce platforms. Offers a wide range of features, apps, and themes. Suitable for businesses of all sizes.
• BigCommerce: Another robust e-commerce platform known for its scalability and advanced features. A good choice for larger businesses with complex needs.
• Squarespace Commerce: Ideal for businesses that prioritize design and ease of use. It s particularly well-suited for visually appealing products.
• Wix eCommerce: Similar to Squarespace, Wix offers a drag-and-drop website builder with e-commerce capabilities. A good option for beginners.
• Ecwid: A versatile platform that can be integrated into existing websites or used as a standalone store.
• Square Online: A solid option, especially if you already use Square for in-person payments. It s simple to set up and integrates seamlessly with Square s ecosystem.
• Shift4Shop (formerly 3dcart): Offers a wide array of features and aims to be very SEO friendly.

How to Choose an Alternative:

When selecting a Selz alternative, consider the following:

• Your Budget: Platforms vary in price, with some offering free plans or trials.
• Your Technical Skills: Some platforms are easier to use than others.
• Your Business Needs: Think about the features you need, such as payment processing, shipping options, and marketing tools.
• Scalability: Choose a platform that can grow with your business.
• Customer Support: Make sure the platform offers reliable customer support in case you need help.

Pricing (of Alternatives):

Pricing for e-commerce platforms varies widely. Here s a general overview (always check the specific platform s website for the most up-to-date information):

• Free Plans/Trials: Some platforms like Square Online offer limited free plans. Many offer free trials to test the platform.
• Basic Plans: Typically range from $15 to $30 per month and offer essential e-commerce features.
• Mid-Tier Plans: Fall in the $30 to $80 per month range and include more advanced features like reporting, marketing automation, and lower transaction fees.
• Advanced/Enterprise Plans: Can cost $80+ per month (and often much more) and are designed for larger businesses with high sales volumes and complex needs. These plans often include dedicated support and custom solutions.

Customer Care (of Selz and its Alternatives):

• Selz (Historically): Selz offered customer support through email, a knowledge base, and tutorials. Support was generally regarded as adequate for smaller businesses. Given the phase-out, this support will likely diminish or be redirected to BigCommerce support.
• Alternatives: Customer support is a critical factor. Consider the following when evaluating alternatives:
  • Support Channels: Look for platforms that offer support through multiple channels, such as email, phone, live chat, and a comprehensive knowledge base.
  • Response Times: Check reviews or testimonials to get an idea of how quickly the platform responds to support requests.
  • Availability: Consider whether support is available 24/7.
  • Community Forums: Active community forums can be a valuable resource for finding answers to common questions.
  • Documentation: Good documentation (tutorials, guides, FAQs) can often resolve issues quickly.

In summary, Selz was a user-friendly e-commerce platform that is being phased out. Those looking for alternatives should carefully consider their budget, technical skills, and business needs when selecting a new platform. Prioritize platforms that offer robust features, excellent customer support, and the potential for scalability.