Website Usability Guidelines

E-Commerce Shopping Cart (2 of 4)

Follow these recommendations:

Do Not Require User to Scroll to Update Shopping Cart - Most carts offer an Update button or link to update changes made to the shopping cart (such as quantity). This function should be located such that it is always visible and clearly distinct from the rest of the shopping cart, regardless of the number of items in the cart.

Calling a Shopping Cart anything but a Shopping Cart - Calling a shopping cart anything other than a shopping cart only causes confusion. Users are accustomed to the cart terminology and while certain domains may find it cute to use a term specific to their product line (i.e. bookbag, order, or basket) it is best to maintain consistency and stick with the cart.

Adding a graphic of a shopping cart also helps quick access. Don't Use JavaScript -- JavaScript requires the browser to support JavaScript. Without the ability to support JavaScript or with JavaScript turned off, functions that require JavaScript can't work.

Use a Readable Font Size and Acceptable Color - The font size and color of your copy may influence your visitors desire to complete their purchase. If your font size is too small or the color is too difficult to read forcing a visitor to strain then the potential for abandonment will increase. This is especially serious for online businesses marketing to older populations.

Shopping Cart Conclusion - No matter how carefully you design your site, test your e-commerce system and price your products, some shoppers will always leave without buying. Not every customer in a brick and mortar store buys something on each visit either.

Visitors are more likely to buy if they perceive that your site is trustworthy, provides good value and is easy to use. That perception is vital to your online success.