1. Define the first version
Choose a manageable starting catalogue and one clear customer group. Record the product variations, stock quantities, delivery destinations and support channels needed for the first sale. Avoid buying tools for a future workflow you have not yet defined.
2. Choose the platform and domain
Decide between a hosted store and a separately hosted website. Check that your required payment and delivery workflow is supported. Register the domain in an account your business controls and document renewal dates and access recovery.
3. Prepare products and customer information
Use accurate photos, clear product descriptions and consistent variations. Explain delivery coverage, shipping costs, returns and how customers can get help before they pay. Check any requirements that apply to your particular products and business.
4. Test the entire order journey
- Place an order on a real mobile phone. Check text size and delivery charges.
- Test successful and failed payments using the provider’s supported test process.
- Confirm order status, inventory changes and customer notifications.
- Practise packing, tracking, cancellation and refund handling.
- Check that your team can reconcile the order with the payment record.
5. Launch small, then review
Start with a limited audience and watch where people get stuck. Record questions about products, payment and delivery. Improve the most common friction before expanding the catalogue or adding more channels.