A year ago, I started my own online store. Along the way, I've learned how to sell thousands of products but also lose thousands of dollars.
To create my store products, I use print-on-demand services, which allow you to print products as they are ordered without carrying any inventory. Though it's a great way to fulfill orders, for the new business owner, there is often room for error if you don't do your research properly. There are many ways to make money with both e-commerce and print-on-demand integration. Here are some common mistakes to avoid when you're just getting started.
1. Failing to Invest in Design
When I first started creating products, I used inexpensive designers, and the quality of work suffered. Once I started investing more heavily in design, my sales increased and it helped shape the brand I was trying to create.
At the beginning, it's important to evaluate design talent to ensure not only that the style fits with your brand, but also that you have a good working relationship with the designer. Understanding each other's working style can help the design process move more smoothly. It's recommended that you test five to ten designers for a short trial run to see which aesthetic and working style aligns best with your goals.