22. How do you ensure the site is accessible to all users, including those with disabilities?

Solution: The agency should adhere to web accessibility guidelines such as WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) to ensure the site is usable by everyone, including people with disabilities.

23. What training or post-launch support do you provide?

Solution: Look for agencies that offer training sessions on managing your site and post-launch support for any technical difficulties.

24. How often do you communicate progress during development?

Solution: Regular updates, perhaps weekly or bi-weekly, are essential to stay aligned on goals and expectations.

25. What content management system (CMS) do you recommend and why?

Solution: The chosen CMS should be user-friendly, scalable, and compatible with your needs, whether that’s WordPress, Magento, or another platform.

26. Will I have full ownership of my site and all its content post-launch?

Solution: Ensure you retain full rights to your site and content. The agency should merely be the developer, not the owner.

27. How do you handle third-party integrations like payment gateways, ERP, or CRM?

Solution: The agency should be familiar with integrating and troubleshooting the third-party solutions that are critical for your business operations.

28. What is the estimated time for project completion?

Solution: Establish a realistic timeline, with milestones, to ensure your project stays on track.

29. How do you handle website backups and potential data loss?

Solution: Regular, automated backups should be a standard offering, with clear protocols for data recovery.

30. Can you assist with setting up an email marketing solution?

Solution: The agency should either provide email marketing setup or guide you in integrating with popular platforms like Mailchimp or Klaviyo.

31. How is website speed optimization handled?

Solution: Speed optimization techniques, such as CDN use, image optimization, and efficient code, should be implemented.

32. Do you offer ongoing website maintenance?

Solution: Regular updates, security checks, and performance monitoring should be part of the maintenance package.

33. Can the website support multi-language and multi-currency features?

Solution: If you’re targeting a global audience, these features are essential. The agency should have experience implementing them.

34. What is your policy on revisions and changes during development?

Solution: Understand how many revisions are included and any associated costs with changes outside the project scope.

35. How do you test the website before launch?

Solution: Comprehensive testing, including functionality, usability, and compatibility testing, should be conducted.

36. What strategies do you suggest for driving traffic to a new eCommerce site?

Solution: Recommendations might include PPC advertising, SEO optimization, influencer partnerships, or social media campaigns.

37. How do you handle potential website downtimes?

Solution: A protocol for quick issue resolution and minimizing downtime should be in place.

38. Can the site accommodate affiliate or reward programs?

Solution: If these programs align with your business model, the agency should facilitate their integration.

39. How do you ensure a smooth checkout process for users?

Solution: User experience testing specifically focused on the checkout funnel will ensure conversions aren’t lost at the last step.

40. Will the site be optimized for voice search?

Solution: As voice search becomes more popular, having a voice search optimization strategy can set you apart.

41. What strategies do you implement to reduce cart abandonment?

Solution: Techniques could include cart recovery emails, exit-intent popups, or streamlined checkout processes.

42. How will customer reviews and testimonials be integrated?

Solution: A system for collecting and displaying reviews, such as Trustpilot or an integrated solution, should be provided.

43. How will the website handle returns and refunds?

Solution: A clear and automated process for handling returns, processing refunds, and communicating with customers should be set up.

44. How will the site be kept up-to-date with changing eCommerce trends and technologies?

Solution: The agency should offer updates and recommendations as the eCommerce landscape evolves.

45. Do you have experience with setting up subscription models or recurring billing?

Solution: If this aligns with your business model, ensure the agency can implement a seamless subscription system.

46. How will customer data be protected?

Solution: Implement robust security measures and ensure compliance with data protection regulations, like GDPR or CCPA.

47. How is the website’s search functionality optimized?

Solution: Advanced search features, filters, and predictive search can enhance user experience.

48. Can the site handle high traffic volumes during sales or promotions?

Solution: Scalable hosting solutions and load testing will ensure your site stays up during peak times.

49. How will the site integrate with social media platforms?

Solution: Features might include social share buttons, social login options, or even shoppable Instagram feeds.

50. How do you plan to measure the success of the website?

Solution: Beyond KPIs, regular audits, and performance reviews will gauge the site’s success and areas for improvement.

This comprehensive checklist should arm you with the necessary questions to ensure your eCommerce site is built on a solid foundation. By proactively addressing these concerns, you’ll be better positioned for online success.