ProStores

How to integrate PostAffiliatePro with ProStores

This integration method integrates your ProStore shopping cart with Post Affiliate Pro or Post Affiliate Pro.

Add sale tracking code

In your store administration navigate to Store Design > Page Template Manager and find Checkout Order Confirmation template file. Edit it and insert this code to the bottom of the file:

<script id="pap_x2s6df8d" src="https://URL_TO_PostAffiliatePro/scripts/trackjs.js" type="text/javascript"></script>
<script type="text/javascript">
	PostAffTracker.setAccountId('Account_ID');
	var sale = PostAffTracker.createSale();
	sale.setTotalCost('<ss:value source="$invoice.subTotal"/>');
	sale.setOrderID('<ss:value source="$invoice.invoiceNumber"/>');

	PostAffTracker.register();
</script>

Remember you have to use an SSL for your PAP or PAN installation as this shopping cart is behind the SSL. Otherwise the tracking will not work.

For advanced settings of the sale tracking you can find variables info in your admin panel.

What is ProStores?

ProStores was an e-commerce platform designed to help small to medium-sized businesses establish their online presence with ease and affordability. Initially developed by Web.com and later acquired by eBay in 2005, ProStores offered a suite of tools that enabled entrepreneurs to create customizable online storefronts without requiring extensive technical expertise. The platform provided features such as customizable design templates, payment processing solutions, inventory management systems, and customer relationship management tools. Additionally, ProStores supported SEO and marketing capabilities to enhance store visibility and performance in the competitive online marketplace.

ProStores emerged in 2005 as part of eBay’s strategic move to offer comprehensive e-commerce solutions beyond its well-known auction marketplace. By integrating ProStores with eBay’s ecosystem, the company aimed to provide business owners with a seamless transition between auction and fixed-price sales models. Despite these efforts, ProStores faced stiff competition from emerging platforms like Shopify, which offered more advanced features and scalability.

In 2014, eBay announced the closure of ProStores, effective February 2015, as part of its strategic business refocus efforts. Users were directed to migrate their online stores to alternative platforms that could better meet the evolving needs of the e-commerce landscape.

ProStores specifically targeted small to medium-sized businesses and entrepreneurs seeking an easy and cost-effective way to establish an online store. The platform was ideal for business owners who lacked extensive technical expertise, as it simplified the e-commerce setup and management process. By offering user-friendly tools and templates, ProStores enabled users to focus on growing their business rather than dealing with the complexities often associated with creating and maintaining an online store.

Main Features of ProStores

Customizable Storefronts with ProStores

ProStores provided a range of customizable storefront templates, allowing businesses to create a unique online presence that reflected their brand identity. Users could choose from various design options and make adjustments to layout, colors, and branding elements without needing coding skills.

Inventory and Order Management in ProStores

The platform was equipped with robust inventory and order management tools. Business owners could easily track stock levels, manage product listings, process orders, and handle returns, all within the ProStores interface. This integration streamlined operations and improved overall efficiency.

Integrated Payment Solutions Offered by ProStores

ProStores supported various payment gateways, offering secure transaction processing for customers. By providing multiple payment options, including credit cards and PayPal, the platform enhanced customer convenience and trust, which are critical factors in online retail success.

SEO and Marketing Tools in ProStores

To help businesses improve their online visibility, ProStores included SEO and marketing tools. Users could optimize their store’s content for search engines, manage meta tags, and implement marketing strategies to attract and retain customers. These features were essential for driving traffic and increasing sales in a competitive market.

Pricing Options for ProStores

ProStores offered tiered pricing models to accommodate the varying needs of different businesses. This flexibility allowed companies to select a package that aligned with their scale and specific requirements. Although exact pricing details varied over time, the tiered approach made ProStores accessible to a wide range of users, from startups to more established businesses.

Pros and Cons of Using ProStores

Advantages of ProStores

• Seamless eBay Integration: ProStores’ integration with eBay allowed sellers to synchronize their online store with their eBay listings, expanding their reach and simplifying inventory management across platforms.
• User-Friendly Interface: The platform was designed with ease of use in mind, enabling users without technical backgrounds to set up and manage their online stores effectively.

Disadvantages of ProStores

• Outdated Technology Over Time: As newer e-commerce solutions emerged, ProStores struggled to keep up with technological advancements, leading to a platform that became outdated compared to its competitors.
• Limited Features Compared to Modern Platforms: ProStores lacked some of the advanced features and scalability offered by contemporary platforms like Shopify and WooCommerce, which limited its appeal to growing businesses with evolving needs.

Alternatives to ProStores After Its Closure

With the closure of ProStores in 2015, many businesses sought alternative platforms to continue their online operations. Some notable alternatives include:

• Shopify: Renowned for its ease of use and scalability, Shopify offers a comprehensive suite of tools for businesses of all sizes.
• Squarespace: Provides aesthetically pleasing design options and is ideal for businesses that prioritize visual appeal.
• BigCommerce: Suitable for larger businesses requiring extensive features and the ability to handle high-volume sales.
• WooCommerce: An open-source plugin for WordPress sites, offering flexibility and customization for users familiar with WordPress.
• Weebly: Features a drag-and-drop interface for quick and easy store setup, ideal for beginners.