Launching an Online Store: What to Prepare

In short: an online store succeeds more on preparation than on technology — a well-organised range, good photos, simple checkout and clear delivery terms. Use this checklist to cover everything in advance.

1. Range and categories

Start with a product list and a category tree. Categories should reflect how customers search (for example "hair care" or "brands"), not how your warehouse is organised.

2. Product pages

A unique name and description, variants (size, colour), price, stock and several good photos. Copying the manufacturer's text performs poorly in Google — add your own useful information.

3. Search and filters

Navigation, search and filters matter most on mobile, where screens are small and shoppers impatient.

4. Cart and payment

Show the full total including delivery before checkout, and keep form fields to a minimum. Card payments require an online payments agreement with a bank; WebStrategy integrates Bank of Georgia, and other providers after assessment. Always test payments in sandbox mode before launch.

5. Delivery

Define zones, fees and timeframes, who delivers (your own courier or a company) and whether customers can track their order.

6. Returns, privacy and terms

Publish your returns and exchange policy, privacy policy and terms of service. This is a general checklist, not legal advice — have the documents reviewed by a lawyer.

7. Order handling

Decide who checks new orders, how statuses change and who updates stock. Set up email notifications for you and for customers.

8. SEO foundations

Clean category and product URLs, unique titles, image alt text, Product structured data and fast loading. See technical SEO basics.

9. Pre-launch testing

• A full test order, by card and other methods;
• Email notifications;
• Mobile version on several phones;
• Analytics and Search Console;
• A backup.

Growing sales after launch

Cut checkout steps, improve product photos and descriptions, make delivery information obvious, track where shoppers abandon the cart and refresh your range regularly.

Examples: DHM Shop, Plantarea. See e-commerce development and pricing.