When Should You Get Custom Work Done on OpenCart?

Posted by AlexDobson on May 24, 2023

OpenCart offers a wide range of features and extensions to help businesses create their online stores. However, there may be instances where the available options do not fully meet your specific requirements. In such cases, getting custom work done on OpenCart becomes the best solution. This blog will guide you through the process of determining when custom work is necessary and how to go about it effectively.

1) Search for an Extension

When you encounter a need for additional functionality in your OpenCart store, it's crucial to explore existing extensions before opting for custom development. OpenCart boasts a vast marketplace of extensions designed to extend the platform's capabilities. To find a suitable extension:

a. Access the OpenCart Marketplace - visit the OpenCart website and navigate to the marketplace section.

b. Utilise the Search Function or Google - use the search bar to look for keywords related to the specific functionality you require. For example, if you need a "product filtering" extension, search for relevant terms. If the OpenCart Marketplace doesn't show the exact relevant results, then you can use Google to search the marketplace like this site:opencart.com/index.php?route=marketplace/extension {your search here}. 

c. Evaluate Extension Options - review the search results and analyse the features, ratings, and reviews of each extension. Pay attention to factors such as compatibility with your OpenCart version, customer support, and pricing. We do have a Recommended Extension Developers blog which is well worth a look.

2) If There Are No Suitable Extensions, Write a Detailed Requirement

In cases where existing extensions do not fulfil your needs, it may be necessary to create custom functionality. To facilitate this process, you should write a detailed requirement document. Here's how:

a. Identify the Requirements - clearly define the features and functionalities you require in your custom solution. Consider elements such as user interface, data management, payment gateways, integrations, and any specific workflows relevant to your business.

b. Prioritise and Outline - arrange the identified requirements in order of importance. Provide a concise and structured outline of each requirement, including any desired specifications, user roles, and expected outcomes.

c. Visualise and Document - if applicable, create mockups to visualise the proposed solution. Additionally, document any technical specifications to guide the development process effectively. The crux to this part, is more information the better.

3) Find a Trusted OpenCart Partner

To ensure the successful implementation of your custom work, partnering with a trusted OpenCart development agency or individual developer is essential. Here's how you can find a reliable partner:

a. Visit the OpenCart Partner Page - OpenCart provides a dedicated partner page where you can search for experienced professionals or agencies offering custom development services. It is worth noting that we at Antropy are indeed OpenCart Gold Partners.

b. Evaluate Partner Profiles - review the profiles of potential partners, taking into account their experience, expertise, portfolio of previous projects, client reviews, and certifications.

c. Reach out and Discuss - contact the selected partners to discuss your project requirements and expectations. Ask questions about their development process, estimated timelines and a rough estimate for this work. This dialogue will help you gauge their professionalism and understanding of your needs. In this situation, we would be happy to get a call booked in with yourself to discuss your requirements and the next steps to help turn your customisation idea into reality.

4) Assess if the Quote Makes Sense

When you receive a price from your chosen OpenCart partner, it's crucial to assess whether the proposed custom work is financially viable. Consider the potential impact on your sales and return on investment (ROI). Evaluate factors such as:

a. Expected Increase in Sales - based on the new feature or functionality, estimate the potential impact on your conversion rates, customer engagement, or average order value. Consider whether the expected increase in sales justifies the cost of the custom work.

b. Long-Term Benefits - assess the longevity of the custom solution. Will it continue to provide value as your business scales and evolves? Consider factors like scalability, flexibility, and potential for future updates or enhancements.

Conclusion

While OpenCart provides a robust set of features and extensions, there may be instances where custom work becomes necessary to meet your unique business requirements. By following the steps outlined in this blog, you can make an informed decision on which path to take. Remember, customisation should be undertaken when the potential benefits outweigh the costs, ensuring a tailored solution that propels your online business forward. As OpenCart Gold Partners, we are of course always to happy to hear from current and new clients looking for custom work, so please don't hesitate to contact us for a no obligation estimate on info@antropy.co.uk.