Three Wise Storefronts Offer Free Services Wrapping Things Up with the Java-Based KonaKart Wayne Kawamoto
KonaKart
While it is "free," which is why it's mentioned here, KonaKart is not designed for small businesses looking to launch their e-commerce stores. It's a free Java-based [define] shopping cart application that is for medium and large companies that need a scalable application that can accommodate lots of traffic and products.
The application is database compatible with osCommerce and serves as an upgrade for current osCommerce customers who may feel that a PHP based application lacks the features, performance, and scalability that they need. KonaKart adds new features that include: one-page checkout, a promotions infrastructure, and user-defined reports.
Aloha Java: KonaKart is a Java-based shopping cart for medium and large companies that need an application that can accommodate lots of traffic and products.
Customers can view order histories and current status and can maintain accounts, and there's support for multiple shipping and billing addresses. Searches allow customers to find products by category or manufacturer and products can be displayed with up to four images. An import/export tool lets you upload products into the database as well as create files from products in the database. There's also support for digital downloads.
An in-depth promotions system manages coupons; lists customer product reviews; displays specials and lets customers subscribe and receive newsletters and e-mails. KonaKart offers options for up and cross selling and applying discounts, and there's built-in shipping features and support for returns and taxes.
Technically, KonaKart is a Java / JSP [define]/ XML based [define] solution with Java APIs and a SOAP Web Service [define]interface.
It requires a JDBC-compliant database, is compatible with many e-commerce (osCommerce) applications and can be installed on Linux [define], Unix [define] or Windows XP/2003/Vista. KonaKart does not charge for software, but makes its money on service and maintenance contracts.
While KonaKart has its benefits, it's for companies with the need and technical expertise to use it.
Is Free Failsafe?
So given these three services, is a free e-commerce service good or even viable? FastCommerce.com offers a full featured e-commerce service at no cost, but you have to live within its quota. If you only have a few items to sell, you can try out FastCommerce.com and see how it goes. And if your business grows, that's a great thing that will prompt a decision in the future to upgrade or go elsewhere.
For medium and large companies that have the technical expertise and in-place systems, there's KonaKart. While you can use the software for free, the company is there should you need support, service, or maintenance.
Shopit provides a non-traditional e-commerce service that works on a different and innovative model that allows you to list products and make sales. If you're just starting out, it's worth a look, and even if you already have an e-commerce store, it may serve as a valuable second sales channel.
Wayne N. Kawamoto is a frequent contributor to WinPlanet.com.
