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Setting up an online business requires attention to fields as varied as logistics, marketing, legal, and IT security. It is necessary to have financial and legal knowledge, business strategy and marketing, operations and logistics, development and hosting, customer service and data analysis.
In short, you need a holistic approach, a 360° vision to ensure success in today's competitive digital world. If you are interested in this field, the master in Digital Business at Universidad Europea will train you to meet the challenges of the business world. In this post, we’ll take a look at the factors to consider when starting an online business.
An online business is a company that operates in the digital realm. Unlike businesses with a physical presence, online businesses use digital platforms to reach their customers and conduct transactions.
Among their advantages are that they require less initial investment than physical businesses. In addition, they can reach customers all over the world, thus facilitating international business expansion.
On the other hand, these businesses present significant challenges. A wide range of skills and a 360° profile are necessary for a successful business.
There are several online business models, each with its own characteristics and strategies.
Each online business model has its advantages and disadvantages. Choosing the right model will depend on the type of product or service, the target market and the resources available.
When we consider how to set up an online business, we have to consider many different aspects. In addition, it is necessary to follow a series of procedures and comply with the applicable regulations in whatever country your legal base will be be able to operate within the law.
Start by identifying a market need or an opportunity that you can take advantage of. Study your target audience, analyse the competition and choose the business model that best suits your idea. Then develop a business plan with objectives, strategies and growth projections.
We must choose the appropriate legal form for the business. For those looking to set up business in Spain, there are a number of options including self-employed, Limited Liability Company (SL), Sole Proprietorship (SLU) or Public Limited Company (SA).
If you choose to be self-employed, you must register with the Tax Authorities and Social Security, as well as obtain the necessary licences or permits for your specific business activity.
In the case of a Limited Company, you must apply for the company name certificate, draw up the articles of association, deposit the share capital, sign the public deed, register the company in the Mercantile Register and obtain the Tax Identification Code (CIF).
Next, it will be necessary to select a domain name, contract a hosting service and design an attractive and easy-to-navigate website.
Another important aspect is the security of the website and the customer's data. An SLL certificate can authenticate the identity of the website and enable an encrypted connection.
Every website must comply with data protection regulations (GDPR) and implement cookie and privacy policies. Clear contracts and terms of use should also be drawn up for both the website and the services offered.
Finally, consider registering trademarks, patents or any other intellectual property relevant to the company.
Search engine optimisation (SEO) is essential to improve the visibility of the website and attract organic traffic.
Search engine marketing and social media are also a great ally in this regard. Creating valuable content and promoting it through social media and online advertising campaigns increases visibility or Google Ads campaigns.
Efficient inventory management and offering secure payment options ensure a satisfactory shopping experience. In addition, a smooth and error-free shipping system must be established. It is therefore a matter of using and implementing what is known as ecommerce logistics in business.
It is mandatory to keep accounts and issue invoices in accordance with current regulations. In addition, regardless of the type of business, if you have employees, you must comply with occupational health and safety regulations.
You must offer efficient customer service through different communication channels. These channels also serve to collect feedback that helps us to continuously improve products and services.
In a competitive digital market, analytics tools such as Google Analytics are key to monitoring website performance and marketing campaigns.
We should also perform regular A/B testing and optimisation to ensure we don't fall behind.
If you are interested in this business field, Universidad Europea has a wide variety of business and technology masters where you can choose the option you like best.