How to add ecommerce b2b solution

[Steelbank]

I am hoping on some input on this very important topic.

We are currently supplying a particular industry with specific custom supplies. Traditionally, this industry has been like many others by not implementing the latest technologies to improve efficiancy, costs etc...

We recently noticed that some of our competitors have incorporated a way that allows each customer to place orders online rather than by phone or fax.

We continue to be extremely successful using the traditional methods but would like to explore any opportunities that would allow us to improve our services.

Has anyone had experience in transforming a traditional brick/mortar operation and implementing an online b2b ecommerce solution? If so, how successful or lack of was the implementation. Were you clients open to the idea of placing orders online rather than what they have been used to?

What are some positive/negative implications in doing so? Any other thoughts....

[minnapple]

I have worked with a couple of wholesalers that added online ordering. Many of their client's ask if they offer it but very few actually use it.

Having the ability to process orders online adds some credibility, however they still want to talk to someone over the phone and end up using the same purchasing method they have used in the past.

Having new product offerings, order tracking, and other value added online services can be the greatest hook.