eCommerce Needs A Shot In The Arm

Can code-free platforms provide a much-needed catalyst to innovation?

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It’s 2018. We’re at the height of innovation — and tomorrow will see us reach all-new heights. Technologies like self-driving cars, true artificial intelligence (AI), anthropomorphic robots, and privatised space travel are all right around the corner. They’re so imminently possible that we’re already seriously considering how these technologies stand to completely transform our civilisation. The state of eCommerce, on the other hand, seems mired in the past — 1997, to be exact.

A prime example could be the comparison of a couple of reviews of top eCommerce platforms. Back in 1997 CNET ran a review stating: “For people who’ve been hanging back wondering if they should put their small business on the web, Viaweb’s product says, Yes, you can get involved and you don’t need a rocket scientist to do it”. Fast forward to 2018 and PC Mag ran a review stating something very similar: “Shopify makes it easy to get off the ground with basic features and the ability to fine-tune features at a later date. Shopify is our Editors’ Choice for shopping cart tools for its intuitive and easy-to-navigate dashboard, and its ease of use for first-time merchants”.