E-commerce requirements in logistics

Online commerce grew steadily in the digital age and presented companies with new challenges. E-commerce encompassed not only online trade, but also the online exchange of information and digital business processes. The Software & Information Engineering department supported a Swiss logistics service provider to increase efficiency and customer satisfaction.

Functions in e-commerce

E-commerce systems required various functions, including:

• Returns management
• Customer front-end (user interface with design)
• Logistics processing
• Goods procurement and product management
• Web analysis and contact management
• Payment processing

These features needed to be secure, user-friendly and multi-channel capable to ensure a seamless online customer experience.

IT security as a critical success factor

Many online retailers focused on their core business and neglected IT security. Attacks on e-commerce platforms were widespread and sensitive payment data was particularly at risk. Our team provided support:

• Secure encryption of communication channels using TLS/SSL or IPSEC technologies.
• Automated system integration to optimize interfaces (e.g. between online store and merchandise management system).
• Raise awareness of security risks and improve IT security in the long term.

Optimization of performance and merchandise management systems

For efficient logistics in e-commerce, companies had to choose between different store systems:

• In-house development
• Open source solutions
• License/rental solutions

Open source systems enabled a high degree of flexibility, but required technical expertise. Our team implemented an intelligent merchandise management system to optimize our partner's logistics. The main benefits:

• Process automation to reduce manual activities
• Multichannel integration for seamless sales processing
• More efficient returns processes to minimize costs

Conclusion

Investing in e-commerce systems was crucial in the digital age. Mobile e-commerce with apps and responsive websites became particularly important. Our team provided IT consulting and technical support to prepare companies for the challenges of digital commerce.