Good web design essential for successful e-commerce

14:31 15th December 2009

The popularity of e-commerce means that many people will end up queuing online while they are doing their Christmas shopping this year.

According to a new survey, virtual queues and slow websites are a problem faced by 80 per cent of online shoppers - a figure which shows the importance good website design.

The study, conducted by Fasthosts Internet, questioned 1,500 people about their online shopping experiences in the run up to the festive season.

As well as four-fifths complaining of slow websites, some 42 per cent claimed they have abandoned shopping as a result of website access issues.

Meanwhile, 34 per cent said they would switch to a competitor's website if they experienced slow or failed transactions.

Fasthosts Internet's Steve Holford said: "The data shows that whilst many firms sell successfully online, usability can take a real knock at the most crucial time of the year.

"Shoppers today are more impatient and unforgiving than ever before, and are ready to source an alternative."

He concluded that e-commerce firms should ensure that their web host responds dynamically to temporary increases in web traffic otherwise they are likely to lose revenue.

Speaking to Net Imperative, regional vice-president of ATG Frank Lord said firms should be aware of the growing trend of shopping via mobile phone - also known as m-commerce.

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