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ARTICLE #64
The perfect tech stacks to power up your ecommerce store
eCommerce
Digital Commerce
Online Store
Woo Commerce
Digital Marketing
eCommerce
Digital Commerce
Online Store
Woo Commerce
Digital Marketing
Written by:
5 min read
Updated on: July 22, 2024
Toni Hukkanen
Head of Design
Creative Direction, Brand Direction
Toni Hukkanen
Head of Design
Creative Direction, Brand Direction
A rock-solid eCommerce tech stack can be the difference between a site that hustles and one that fizzles. The right blend of tools not only keeps your customers happy (no more endless loading wheels) but also helps you grow without giving your wallet or developers a heart attack.
And let’s be honest: when everything integrates smoothly—inventory, payments, shipping—you’ll actually have time to focus on the fun stuff, like crafting those unbeatable product descriptions or figuring out the next big campaign.
In this quick chat, let’s walk through the top tech stack combos guaranteed to energize your online store and crank up those sales. Whether you’re launching your dream brand or breathing new life into a longstanding digital shop, these insights can give you a real edge.
A rock-solid eCommerce tech stack can be the difference between a site that hustles and one that fizzles. The right blend of tools not only keeps your customers happy (no more endless loading wheels) but also helps you grow without giving your wallet or developers a heart attack.
And let’s be honest: when everything integrates smoothly—inventory, payments, shipping—you’ll actually have time to focus on the fun stuff, like crafting those unbeatable product descriptions or figuring out the next big campaign.
In this quick chat, let’s walk through the top tech stack combos guaranteed to energize your online store and crank up those sales. Whether you’re launching your dream brand or breathing new life into a longstanding digital shop, these insights can give you a real edge.
What is an ecommerce technology stack?
What is an ecommerce technology stack?
An eCommerce technology stack, often called a “tech stack,” is the combination of software and tools your online store depends on each day. It can cover everything from the frameworks that structure your site’s look and feel to the payment processing system that finalises orders—whether shoppers buy on their phones at midnight or browse from their laptops during lunch.
This setup is split into two key parts. The front end (client-facing) includes everything customers see and click on, like your site’s layout and online storefronts. Meanwhile, the back end (server-facing) handles all the behind-the-scenes work: servers, databases, and the applications that pull in product details, manage orders, and make sure your site keeps ticking along.
An eCommerce technology stack, often called a “tech stack,” is the combination of software and tools your online store depends on each day. It can cover everything from the frameworks that structure your site’s look and feel to the payment processing system that finalises orders—whether shoppers buy on their phones at midnight or browse from their laptops during lunch.
This setup is split into two key parts. The front end (client-facing) includes everything customers see and click on, like your site’s layout and online storefronts. Meanwhile, the back end (server-facing) handles all the behind-the-scenes work: servers, databases, and the applications that pull in product details, manage orders, and make sure your site keeps ticking along.
Four factors to consider when choosing tools for your tech stack
Selecting tools for your store means identifying your top priorities and any services you can't scrap. You want a setup that won't falter when traffic spikes or your brand evolves. Take these four guidelines seriously to heart as you design an eCommerce stack that's both cost-effective and future-ready because a strong, modern foundation can keep your business flourishing, profitable, and thriving.
1. Scalability
Scaling matters the moment your site starts seeing heavier traffic and more checkouts. Tools like Shopify and BigCommerce automatically handle traffic surges, so you’re not panicking over extra server space. Meanwhile, open-source options such as WooCommerce and Magento might require manual upgrades like improving your hosting plan or fine-tuning site speed. If your platform can’t grow with you unless you throw piles of cash or extra staff at it, you risk losing valuable sales.
2. Complexity
A complex setup can offer plenty of features, but it also means bigger expenses and more time spent on maintenance. On the flip side, a managed or all-in-one platform bundles hosting, security, and support under one roof, sparing you some headaches. Yet you might find it lacks certain advanced capabilities. It all comes down to deciding whether you need every bell and whistle, or if a straightforward approach is enough.
3. Compatibility
Your chosen solutions should work together without friction—and that includes the rest of your operational tools. You can achieve this through direct integration or by using third-party connectors. For example, if your shipping service doesn’t natively integrate with your eCommerce platform, you can rely on tools like ShipStation or Shippo to fill the gap and ensure systems talk to each other.
4. Customisability
High flexibility lets you create a shopping space that’s distinctly yours. Maybe you run a clothing store and need oversized product images with video demos, or you sell electronics and want detailed product comparisons. Open-source platforms like WooCommerce or Magento can handle deep custom tweaks, although you’ll likely need a developer’s touch. Shopify, on the other hand, delivers a simpler dashboard and pre-built themes perfect for non-coders, though it offers fewer creative levers to pull.
Selecting tools for your store means identifying your top priorities and any services you can't scrap. You want a setup that won't falter when traffic spikes or your brand evolves. Take these four guidelines seriously to heart as you design an eCommerce stack that's both cost-effective and future-ready because a strong, modern foundation can keep your business flourishing, profitable, and thriving.
1. Scalability
Scaling matters the moment your site starts seeing heavier traffic and more checkouts. Tools like Shopify and BigCommerce automatically handle traffic surges, so you’re not panicking over extra server space. Meanwhile, open-source options such as WooCommerce and Magento might require manual upgrades like improving your hosting plan or fine-tuning site speed. If your platform can’t grow with you unless you throw piles of cash or extra staff at it, you risk losing valuable sales.
2. Complexity
A complex setup can offer plenty of features, but it also means bigger expenses and more time spent on maintenance. On the flip side, a managed or all-in-one platform bundles hosting, security, and support under one roof, sparing you some headaches. Yet you might find it lacks certain advanced capabilities. It all comes down to deciding whether you need every bell and whistle, or if a straightforward approach is enough.
3. Compatibility
Your chosen solutions should work together without friction—and that includes the rest of your operational tools. You can achieve this through direct integration or by using third-party connectors. For example, if your shipping service doesn’t natively integrate with your eCommerce platform, you can rely on tools like ShipStation or Shippo to fill the gap and ensure systems talk to each other.
4. Customisability
High flexibility lets you create a shopping space that’s distinctly yours. Maybe you run a clothing store and need oversized product images with video demos, or you sell electronics and want detailed product comparisons. Open-source platforms like WooCommerce or Magento can handle deep custom tweaks, although you’ll likely need a developer’s touch. Shopify, on the other hand, delivers a simpler dashboard and pre-built themes perfect for non-coders, though it offers fewer creative levers to pull.
Choosing the right business functions to build your ecommerce tech stack
After mapping out your tech stack approach, the next move is to pinpoint the main areas that keep your operations thriving. Everything from content management to analytics plays a part in shaping customer satisfaction and overall growth. The following sections highlight key business functions you’ll want to consider, plus a few reputable vendors to steer you in the right direction.
Content management system (CMS)
A CMS allows you to create, edit, and organise pages without requiring advanced coding expertise. Shopify, for instance, has an intuitive interface where you can manage text, media files, and overall appearance via themes or plug-ins. You could also choose a headless CMS—this keeps your content and front-end separate, giving you even more freedom when designing the user experience.
Shipping and logistics software
As your organisation gets bigger, you may need more sophisticated shipping and fulfilment options. A third-party logistics (3PL) partner can handle storage, packing, and delivery for you, freeing your team to focus on priorities like marketing or product development. It’s an easy way to keep shipments quick and reliable without turning your workplace into a warehouse.
Customer relationship management software(CRM)
CRM systems help you connect more closely with your customers by centralising data, managing sales pipelines, and automating various marketing tasks. Popular choices include Salesforce, HubSpot, and Zoho CRM. With these platforms, you can stay on top of every customer interaction, spot new sales leads, and keep your audience consistently engaged.
Analytics tools
Data often holds the clues you need to improve your store. Analytics software reveals statistics on revenue, traffic sources, visitor behaviour, and how well your promotional efforts are working. Google Analytics and Adobe Analytics remain popular due to their comprehensive metrics. By monitoring changes over time, you can address weak spots quickly and plan your next steps confidently.
After mapping out your tech stack approach, the next move is to pinpoint the main areas that keep your operations thriving. Everything from content management to analytics plays a part in shaping customer satisfaction and overall growth. The following sections highlight key business functions you’ll want to consider, plus a few reputable vendors to steer you in the right direction.
Content management system (CMS)
A CMS allows you to create, edit, and organise pages without requiring advanced coding expertise. Shopify, for instance, has an intuitive interface where you can manage text, media files, and overall appearance via themes or plug-ins. You could also choose a headless CMS—this keeps your content and front-end separate, giving you even more freedom when designing the user experience.
Shipping and logistics software
As your organisation gets bigger, you may need more sophisticated shipping and fulfilment options. A third-party logistics (3PL) partner can handle storage, packing, and delivery for you, freeing your team to focus on priorities like marketing or product development. It’s an easy way to keep shipments quick and reliable without turning your workplace into a warehouse.
Customer relationship management software(CRM)
CRM systems help you connect more closely with your customers by centralising data, managing sales pipelines, and automating various marketing tasks. Popular choices include Salesforce, HubSpot, and Zoho CRM. With these platforms, you can stay on top of every customer interaction, spot new sales leads, and keep your audience consistently engaged.
Analytics tools
Data often holds the clues you need to improve your store. Analytics software reveals statistics on revenue, traffic sources, visitor behaviour, and how well your promotional efforts are working. Google Analytics and Adobe Analytics remain popular due to their comprehensive metrics. By monitoring changes over time, you can address weak spots quickly and plan your next steps confidently.
Popular tech stacks for eCommerce
Now that you’re familiar with the main components of a tech stack—and the key considerations—let’s look at some well-known eCommerce solutions. These setups have been tried and tested by many successful online sellers and aim to balance convenience, reliability, and functionality.
Below, we’ll walk through four widely adopted platforms and how each one measures up, from plug-and-play options to those offering total open-source freedom.
Shopify
Shopify is a well-known eCommerce builder with a user-friendly dashboard, built-in inventory features, and a secure payment setup. Its app marketplace includes over 8,000 add-ons, letting you customise your store’s features. You also get handy SEO tools, flexible URLs, and automatic image optimisation. On the flip side, transaction fees may add up if you’re doing high sales volume, and Shopify’s customisation can feel limited if you have very particular requirements.
WooCommerce
WooCommerce is a free plugin for WordPress used by millions of entrepreneurs worldwide. It merges blogging, marketing, and online selling in one place. Because it’s open source, you have extensive freedom to modify your store—although you may need a developer if you’re going for a complex setup. The similarity to WordPress means you’ll get the hang of it quickly, and you can integrate it with an existing site or spin up a brand-new shop.
Magento
Magento (often referred to as Adobe Commerce) provides a wealth of features for businesses with large or fast-rising demands. It manages heavy traffic, multiple languages, and detailed product listings. The Magento Marketplace has over 3,000 free and paid extensions for added functionality. However, it does require a solid level of technical expertise, and most stores need a developer’s help to unlock its potential. Still, if you have the right team, Magento can cover nearly any eCommerce scenario.
BigCommerce
BigCommerce is a cloud-based option designed for ease of use alongside enterprise-level functions. It features responsive themes, built-in SEO, and a robust set of integrations for payments, shipping, and beyond. One thing to note: there’s a limit of 80 requests per minute (and 1,600 requests per hour) on the API, which might pose challenges if your business relies heavily on external data flows. Some users also find customisation less flexible compared to open-source platforms like Magento or WooCommerce.
Now that you’re familiar with the main components of a tech stack—and the key considerations—let’s look at some well-known eCommerce solutions. These setups have been tried and tested by many successful online sellers and aim to balance convenience, reliability, and functionality.
Below, we’ll walk through four widely adopted platforms and how each one measures up, from plug-and-play options to those offering total open-source freedom.
Shopify
Shopify is a well-known eCommerce builder with a user-friendly dashboard, built-in inventory features, and a secure payment setup. Its app marketplace includes over 8,000 add-ons, letting you customise your store’s features. You also get handy SEO tools, flexible URLs, and automatic image optimisation. On the flip side, transaction fees may add up if you’re doing high sales volume, and Shopify’s customisation can feel limited if you have very particular requirements.
WooCommerce
WooCommerce is a free plugin for WordPress used by millions of entrepreneurs worldwide. It merges blogging, marketing, and online selling in one place. Because it’s open source, you have extensive freedom to modify your store—although you may need a developer if you’re going for a complex setup. The similarity to WordPress means you’ll get the hang of it quickly, and you can integrate it with an existing site or spin up a brand-new shop.
Magento
Magento (often referred to as Adobe Commerce) provides a wealth of features for businesses with large or fast-rising demands. It manages heavy traffic, multiple languages, and detailed product listings. The Magento Marketplace has over 3,000 free and paid extensions for added functionality. However, it does require a solid level of technical expertise, and most stores need a developer’s help to unlock its potential. Still, if you have the right team, Magento can cover nearly any eCommerce scenario.
BigCommerce
BigCommerce is a cloud-based option designed for ease of use alongside enterprise-level functions. It features responsive themes, built-in SEO, and a robust set of integrations for payments, shipping, and beyond. One thing to note: there’s a limit of 80 requests per minute (and 1,600 requests per hour) on the API, which might pose challenges if your business relies heavily on external data flows. Some users also find customisation less flexible compared to open-source platforms like Magento or WooCommerce.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I increase my ecommerce website reach?
Ramping up traffic involves focusing on SEO, using social media to engage people, and publishing valuable content so you become a trusted voice in your niche. For faster results, consider running paid advertising or launching email campaigns to reach specific groups and boost conversions right away.
What are the advantages of using the perfect tech stacks for an ecommerce store?
Choosing a well-suited tech stack leads to fewer glitches, smoother scaling, and enhanced security. Shoppers get an easy path to checkout, while your business benefits from reliable performance behind the scenes. In short, a top-notch stack can improve customer trust, encourage repeat purchases, and streamline daily operations.
What are the best ways to optimise tech stacks for an ecommerce store?
Start by picking platforms and apps that match your goals, then ensure everything works together seamlessly so data flows without hassle. Keep all software up to date, watch for security patches, and use performance metrics to spot areas that need fine-tuning. By regularly monitoring and adjusting your setup, you’ll maintain a reliable store that meets customer expectations.
Conclusion
So here’s the bottom line: building a tech stack that clicks with your goals is not some mythical quest; it’s more like fine-tuning a car so it's fast on the highway. Meanwhile, automating repetitive tasks frees up time for inventive pursuits like shaping fresh campaigns or refining your brand story. Keeping an eye on factors like scalability and flexibility ensures your setup can handle both current needs and future expansion.
If you don’t have in-house skills, hiring savvy developers or specialized agencies can seal pesky gaps and smooth your shift into a stronger, more trustworthy tech ecosystem. By consistently checking, refining and investing in truly fitting solutions, you’ll land a foundation that fuels steady success and boldly sets you apart in a crowded market.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I increase my ecommerce website reach?
Ramping up traffic involves focusing on SEO, using social media to engage people, and publishing valuable content so you become a trusted voice in your niche. For faster results, consider running paid advertising or launching email campaigns to reach specific groups and boost conversions right away.
What are the advantages of using the perfect tech stacks for an ecommerce store?
Choosing a well-suited tech stack leads to fewer glitches, smoother scaling, and enhanced security. Shoppers get an easy path to checkout, while your business benefits from reliable performance behind the scenes. In short, a top-notch stack can improve customer trust, encourage repeat purchases, and streamline daily operations.
What are the best ways to optimise tech stacks for an ecommerce store?
Start by picking platforms and apps that match your goals, then ensure everything works together seamlessly so data flows without hassle. Keep all software up to date, watch for security patches, and use performance metrics to spot areas that need fine-tuning. By regularly monitoring and adjusting your setup, you’ll maintain a reliable store that meets customer expectations.
Conclusion
So here’s the bottom line: building a tech stack that clicks with your goals is not some mythical quest; it’s more like fine-tuning a car so it's fast on the highway. Meanwhile, automating repetitive tasks frees up time for inventive pursuits like shaping fresh campaigns or refining your brand story. Keeping an eye on factors like scalability and flexibility ensures your setup can handle both current needs and future expansion.
If you don’t have in-house skills, hiring savvy developers or specialized agencies can seal pesky gaps and smooth your shift into a stronger, more trustworthy tech ecosystem. By consistently checking, refining and investing in truly fitting solutions, you’ll land a foundation that fuels steady success and boldly sets you apart in a crowded market.
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Work with us
Click to copy
work@for.co
- FOR® Brand. FOR® Future.
We’re remote-first — with strategic global hubs
Click to copy
Helsinki, FIN
info@for.fi
Click to copy
New York, NY
ny@for.co
Click to copy
Miami, FL
mia@for.co
Click to copy
Dubai, UAE
uae@for.co
Click to copy
Kyiv, UA
kyiv@for.co
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Lagos, NG
lagos@for.ng
Copyright © 2024 FOR®
Work with us
Click to copy
work@for.co
We’re remote-first — with strategic global hubs
Click to copy
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Click to copy
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Click to copy
Miami, FL
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Click to copy
Dubai, UAE
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Click to copy
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Click to copy
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Copyright © 2024 FOR®