Should I replatform my ecommerce business with Shopify?

Shopify is popular among modern businesses for a long list of reasons. For starters, software developers love it – thanks to exceptional documentation, developer relations, and one-click integrations with platforms like AWS. 

• Scales for modern business operations
• Reliable enterprise software and tool integrations 
• One-click integrations with platforms like AWS
• Easy for software developers to learn quickly
• Amazing documentation and developer relations

Shopify is a versatile, high-performing platform that can power everything from lean startups to enterprises. While it has lots of features that make it easy to integrate, it’s not a turnkey effort for enterprise business (no new platform never is). 

Large enterprises should view moving to Shopify as a replatforming project – requiring careful planning, custom integrations, and a skilled team – rather than an all-in-one fix with zero configuration.

Here’s why it’s still a good idea to switch your ecommerce platform to Shopify.

Reasons why Shopify is a good choice for ecommerce

When it comes to ecommerce, the decision to replatform from a custom or legacy solution to a new ecosystem is never taken lightly – especially for businesses operating at scale. 

Here are the most important reasons why Shopify is a good choice for your ecommerce replatform. 

1. Scalability for growing businesses – Shopify’s robust infrastructure supports businesses of all sizes and growth stages.

• High uptime and reliability during traffic surges
• Flexible plans for expanding catalogs and sales volumes

2. Seamless user experience – Shopify ensures customer satisfaction with a smooth shopping experience.

• Responsive, mobile-friendly themes for all devices
• Fast load speeds to reduce bounce rates and cart abandonment

3. Cost-effective operations – Save on operational costs by consolidating tools and minimizing maintenance.

• Hosting, security, and updates included in the platform
• Access to affordable apps and reduced IT overhead

4. Enhanced customization and design – Create unique stores that reflect your brand.

• Over 100 professional themes and customizable design options
• Support for third-party integrations and tailored features

5. Powerful marketing and SEO tools – Boost visibility and sales with built-in marketing features.

• SEO-friendly tools like customizable URLs and meta tags
• Integration with email marketing and social media platforms

6. Global reach with multichannel selling – Easily expand your customer base internationally.

• Multilingual and multicurrency features
• Integrations with marketplaces like Amazon and eBay

7. Robust app ecosystem – Enhance functionality with Shopify’s extensive app store.

• Tools for inventory, customer support, and marketing automation
• Regular updates and industry-specific solutions

8. Security and compliance – Rely on Shopify for secure and compliant operations.

• PCI-compliant payment processing and SSL certificates
• Regular platform updates to address vulnerabilities

9. Support and community – Access reliable support and a thriving ecosystem.

• 24/7 customer support via chat, email, and phone
• Extensive documentation and a strong community of experts

10. Faster time-to-market – Get up and running quickly with Shopify’s intuitive setup.

• Ready-made templates and pre-built integrations
• Migration services for a seamless transition

11. Seamless integration with enterprise software – Shopify connects effortlessly with enterprise tools.

• Integrates with ERP, CRM, and accounting systems for real-time data sync
• Supports email marketing, shipping, and custom API solutions

Real-world example: ExpertVoice’s Shopify integration

[Talk on Shopify product development with Director of Engineering at ExpertVoice]

A prime example of Shopify’s flexibility at scale comes from ExpertVoice, a platform that connects hundreds of brands with industry experts.

These experts test products, share trusted recommendations, and drive authentic word-of-mouth marketing. 

Many of ExpertVoice’s clients use Shopify, so they needed a smooth, reliable way to tap into Shopify data without relying on old client-side scripts that were prone to tracking errors.

Collaboration with Codingscape

By teaming up with Codingscape, ExpertVoice quickly built and tested a proof-of-concept (POC) integration:

• Server-to-server data flow – Instead of using fragile JavaScript snippets, the new integration securely pulled order and product data from Shopify’s APIs.
• Faster onboarding – Clients could install the beta app in a day, cutting onboarding time from weeks to hours.
• Improved accuracy – Relying on direct APIs eliminates many of the browser security and front-end customization pitfalls that plagued the older approach.

After proving the concept, Expert Voice and Codingscape published the final app to the Shopify App Store. 

Although the review process was rigorous – Shopify requires developers to meet strict security and performance standards – it ultimately enhanced merchant trust and ensured a stable, high-quality user experience.

How Shopify integrates with enterprise software

One of Shopify's standout benefits for businesses is its ability to integrate seamlessly with enterprise software – enabling smoother operations and better data flow across systems. 

Whether you need to connect your ERP, CRM, or email marketing platform, Shopify offers robust solutions.

1. ERP integration – Shopify can integrate with popular Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems like SAP, Oracle NetSuite, Microsoft Dynamics, and others.

• Real-time data synchronization – Ensures inventory, orders, and customer data are updated automatically across systems.
• Streamlined operations – Simplifies processes like order fulfillment, financial reporting, and supply chain management.
• Scalability – Handles the demands of large enterprises with complex operational needs.

2. CRM integration – Customer Relationship Management (CRM) tools like Salesforce, HubSpot, and Zoho can be seamlessly connected to Shopify.

• Enhanced customer insights – Syncs customer data for personalized marketing and improved service.
• Unified communication – Centralizes interactions to maintain consistency across all touchpoints.
• Sales automation – Tracks customer journeys and automates lead nurturing processes.

3. Email marketing and automation – Shopify integrates with major email marketing platforms like Klaviyo, Mailchimp, and ActiveCampaign.

• Targeted campaigns – Leverage customer purchase behavior and preferences for personalized email marketing.
• Automation – Automate abandoned cart reminders, post-purchase follow-ups, and promotional campaigns.
• Analytics – Monitor campaign performance directly from your email platform for actionable insights.

4. Accounting and finance tools – Shopify supports integrations with tools like QuickBooks, Xero, and FreshBooks.

• Accurate financial reporting – Syncs sales data with your accounting software to eliminate manual entry errors.
• Tax compliance – Automatically calculates taxes for different regions, ensuring compliance with local regulations.
• Cash flow management – Provides real-time insights into your store’s financial health.

5. Shipping and logistics – Shopify partners with logistics and shipping software like ShipStation, EasyPost, and DHL.

• Simplified shipping – Automates label printing, shipping updates, and carrier selection.
• Global fulfillment – Supports international shipping and tracking for worldwide reach.
• Cost optimization – Compares carrier rates to find the most cost-effective options.

6. Custom API integrations – For businesses with unique software needs, Shopify’s API capabilities allow for custom integrations.

• Tailored workflows – Build bespoke solutions to connect Shopify with in-house systems.
• Advanced analytics – Pull data into custom dashboards or business intelligence tools.
• Endless possibilities – Work with Shopify developers to create specific functionalities.

Shopify replatform key takeaways for ecommerce leaders

Migrating to Shopify is a strategic opportunity to modernize your ecommerce operations and align them with industry-leading practices.

But, replatforming is more than a simple switch – it requires careful planning, customization, and a focus on long-term value. 

Here are some essential insights for ecommerce leaders to consider as they navigate this process.

1. Treat migration like a replatforming event – While Shopify is user-friendly, large-scale operations require custom integrations and thorough planning. Assume you’ll need time to ensure everything from ERPs to loyalty programs sync properly.
2. APIs make the difference – Shopify’s extensive APIs allow for deep customization. You can tailor the experience to your brand’s needs, but be prepared to invest in occasional updates for new API versions or major platform changes.
3. Focus on the shortest path to value – If data accuracy is paramount, consider a server-to-server integration over client-side scripts. The initial effort pays off in fewer security issues and simpler maintenance over the long haul.
4. Leverage headless commerce when you need it – For a fully custom user experience, Shopify’s “headless” features let you decouple the storefront from the back-end. This can greatly benefit brands with complex front-end demands.
5. Expect a thorough custom app review process – Getting onto the Shopify App Store isn’t an overnight ordeal – there’s a reason high-quality apps populate that marketplace. Budget time and resources for a collaborative approval process.

Hire Shopify experts to assess and build your ecommerce replatform

Replatforming to Shopify at scale is not a simple drag-and-drop exercise. While the platform’s ecosystem, APIs, and developer tooling are impressive, enterprise-grade operations often demand custom integrations, third-party solutions, and strategic development work. 

Success at scale hinges on a thoughtful, well-planned approach – one that acknowledges the complexity of enterprise-grade commerce and ensures that Shopify’s flexibility is fully leveraged to meet your business’s unique needs.

We can assemble a senior Shopify development team for you in 4-6 weeks and start replatforming your ecommerce business. It’ll be faster to get started, more cost-efficient than internal hiring, and we’ll deliver high-quality results quickly.

Zappos, Twilio, and Veho are just a few companies that trust us to build their ecommerce solutions .
You can schedule a time to talk with us here. No hassle, no expectations, just answers.