How do online payment solutions make e-commerce management easier?
E-retailers have every interest in choosing their payment platform carefully. It is, in fact, the kind of tool that can simplify the management of their business. Offered by approved professionals, online payment solutions have several functions. First of all, they make it possible to technically make online payments. But they also have advantages in terms of security and functionalities that make the daily life of sellers easier.
Security guarantees provided by the payment provider
A payment service provider (PSP) is a professional in electronic banking. To be authorized to sell its online payment solution in Europe, it must be approved by a supervisory authority. It should be noted that this type of service can also be offered by a bank.
The PSP is required to comply with the European directive DSP2 which regulates online payments. In other words, it is up to him to offer e-retailers standard security protocols, protect user data and fight fraud. He is also responsible for the transfer of funds and the contact person to contact in the event of a dispute. Therefore, by opting for an approved payment solution, merchants do not have to worry about these sensitive issues.
A wider range of payment methods
It is possible to customize payment page depending on its activity thanks to the different payment methods offered by PSPs. These take into account the evolution of purchasing habits and innovations in the field of electronic banking.
- The e-merchant is free to choose types of bank cards to offer to its customers: Visa, MasterCard, American Express, etc.
- For recurring payments, as part of a monthly subscription for example, it is possible toactivate automatic debits.
- For local businesses, payment by link is a simple solution to consider. It allows payments to be made remotely by sending an SMS or an e-mail from the seller. When the customer receives the (tamper-proof) link, they simply click on it to be taken to a secure payment environment.
- Payments when due, by e-wallets (like PayPal) or by dematerialized holiday vouchers, are other services offered by PSPs.
As the PSP offer is not the same, it is important to detail and make a comparison payment methods offered. Pay attention to the options! This is a cost that can be added to the prices charged for using a payment platform.
An intuitive management interface
E-retailers are looking for simple solution with quick handling. This is what an intuitive interface providing access to management functionalities will allow. The objective is twofold for e-retailers: to manage transactions independently and not waste time. Thus, from the management portal, the seller (and/or his team) will be able to:
- customize the payment page with the colors and logo of its online store ;
- configure payment methods;
- cancel payments, make refunds or create credits;
- follow the evolution of turnover over predefined periods.
Simplified integration of the payment platform
Another advantage of payment solutions available on the market is that they require little technical knowledge in web development. The integration will depend on the way the store is published on the Internet.
- If it is a CMS (or content management system, like WooCommerce), just install an extension (or plugin).
- If the merchant site was developed in a personalized mannerit is usually possible to access a development kit. This will allow rapid and simplified integration.
Please note, to install a payment platform, you must first establish a contract with the PSP. This is also when the features and options will be chosen. Some PSPs offer to test their solution beforehand.
In conclusion, management facilities are an essential criterion for choosing a payment solution for your e-commerce. More than a means of collecting online payments, it is also a tool that makes it possible to secure and simply manage transactions, as well as to adapt payment methods to the profiles of its customers.
