In this article, we'll explore the key aspects you should consider when hiring an expert Shopify Plus developer to power your store on this platform.
If you're considering taking your online store to the next level, Shopify Plus is one of the best platforms available. Designed for growing or high-volume businesses, it offers flexibility, scalability, and advanced customization. However, to make the most of these benefits, it's crucial to have a specialized Shopify Plus designer.
Why does Shopify Plus require specialized designers?
Shopify Plus isn't simply an upgraded version of Shopify; it's an advanced platform that offers exclusive tools, such as customizable scripts, complex integrations, and support for multiple stores. These features allow for deep customization, but they also come with a higher level of complexity.
A specialized Shopify Plus designer doesn't just take care of the aesthetic side of your store but also understands how to optimize the user experience (UX), increase conversions, and ensure technical compatibility with external apps and tools. Hiring someone without Shopify Plus experience could result in technical limitations or a missed opportunity to stand out in a competitive market.
1. Proven Shopify Plus experience
Experience is a key factor when hiring a designer. Shopify Plus has quirks that set it apart from other platforms, and a designer with proven experience in this tool will know how to make the most of its capabilities.
Look for professionals who can show a portfolio with projects on Shopify Plus, not just standard Shopify. Also check if they have experience working with businesses similar to yours, as this will allow them to better understand your specific needs. Tools like Clutch.co and Behance can be useful for reviewing reviews and examples of previous work.
A recent study by Statista shows that stores on Shopify Plus are 30% more likely to experience an increase in conversion rates when designed by experts on the platform.
2. Technical and creative understanding
The balance between the technical side and creativity is essential. A Shopify Plus designer should be proficient in programming languages such as Liquid, HTML, CSS, and have experience implementing API integrations. Additionally, they should be up to date with e-commerce design trends to create attractive and functional stores.
The design should be user-centric and mobile-optimized, as, according to Think with Google, 73% of online purchases are made from smartphones. A designer who combines technical skills and a creative vision can ensure you have a store that is not only visually appealing, but also efficient and easy to navigate.
3. Ability to optimize performance
The performance of your store is crucial to success. Shopify Plus designers should be familiar with speed optimization best practices, such as reducing image sizes, minifying code, and taking advantage of lazy loading. This is vital, as a Google PageSpeed Insights study shows that a store that loads in less than three seconds is twice as likely to retain visitors.
Additionally, Shopify Plus allows for advanced settings to handle high volumes of traffic, especially during events like Black Friday. Make sure your designer is prepared to optimize your store for these situations.
4. Knowledge of Shopify Plus integrations and tools
Shopify Plus offers unique integrations like Shopify Flow, Launchpad, and Custom Scripts. These tools allow you to automate processes, manage complex promotions, and personalize the shopping experience. An experienced designer should know how to implement these features to maximize the value of your store.
For example, Shopify Flow can automate repetitive tasks, while Launchpad allows you to plan sales events in advance. A designer who is proficient in these tools can save you time and increase the efficiency of your business.
5. Communication and collaboration skills
Designing a store on Shopify Plus is not a solo effort; it requires collaboration between different teams, such as developers, marketers, and project managers. That's why it's important for your designer to have effective communication skills and be able to work as a team.
During the hiring process, assess their ability to understand your business goals and translate them into tangible designs. A good designer should also be willing to iterate and improve based on the needs of the project.
6. SEO and Conversion Optimization
A Shopify Plus designer should also have a focus on SEO and conversion optimization. This includes ensuring your store has:
- Search engine-friendly URLs.
- Designs optimized for speed.
- Structured content with alt tags for images.
- Optimization strategies to reduce cart abandonment.
A Semrush study highlights that SEO-optimized stores are 45% more likely to appear in the top search results, which can lead to a significant increase in organic traffic.
Hiring a Shopify Plus designer is a key investment to ensure the success of your online store. Look for professionals with proven experience, technical and creative skills, and a focus on SEO and conversion optimization. Remember that collaboration and communication are also essential for the project to flow smoothly.
At Rootstack, we have a Shopify Plus-specialized team ready to help you create a unique, optimized, and success-ready store. Contact us today and take the next step toward growing your business!
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