How to Work with the Northwind SQLite Database using Python This guide walks you through interacting with the Northwind database using Python (v3.7.3) and SQLite tools — based on an assignment from Wikiversity’s Applied Programming: Databases curriculum. Step 1: Setting Up the Northwind Database To begin, install DB Browser for SQLite and download the Northwind […]
Next Steps After completing the foundational steps for launching an e-commerce business, learners are encouraged to apply their knowledge by solidifying their business model, identifying a specific target audience, and validating their product ideas. These steps are essential for turning a concept into a successful business. With the foundational work complete, the course recommends continuing […]
Understand Fulfillment Fulfillment refers to the process of shipping products to customers. Entrepreneurs can either ship products themselves or outsource to third-party logistics (3PL) providers like Amazon FBA. Self-shipping involves managing packaging and delivery either manually or at scale with staff and warehousing. Alternatively, 3PLs manage storage, packaging, and shipment integration with e-commerce platforms. Shipping […]
Create and Optimize Content Effective content supports product sales by answering questions, reducing concerns, and minimizing support issues. Basic content includes a product title, description, and image, but higher-converting pages incorporate influencer reviews, instructional videos, product tutorials, and user testimonials. Influencer outreach can be cost-effective and drive external reviews. Content can also be created in-house, […]
Create Your Own Store Operating your own online store offers significant advantages over selling solely on third-party marketplaces. Key benefits include: Higher Profit Margins: Retain more revenue by avoiding third-party fees (typically 3–15%). Full Brand Control: Manage discounts, shipping, returns, and customer experience directly. Customer Relationship Ownership: Collect emails, provide personalized service, and access purchasing […]
Register Your Business Registering a legal entity is a key step in separating personal and business liabilities. Without it, the owner is considered a sole proprietor and could be held personally liable for debts or lawsuits. Forming an entity such as an LLC can limit liability and simplify accounting by keeping finances and expenses separate. […]
Come up with a Lot of Ideas Patrick Rauland advises aspiring entrepreneurs to go beyond their first ideas and aim for at least 25–200 concepts. Early ideas often lack originality, but with volume comes creativity. He suggests recording and iterating on ideas over time, seeking feedback from fellow creators. Originality increases through refinement, not immediate […]
Choose an Industry Once a business model is selected, narrowing down to a focused niche—or “micro-niche”—can increase success in ecommerce. Patrick Rauland highlights examples like Uncle Goose (wooden toys made in the U.S.), Colorado Glasses (eco-friendly wooden sunglasses), and Button Shy (pocket-sized games) as businesses that found clarity through niche markets. Smaller niches reduce competition, […]
Ecommerce Business Model Guide How to Choose an Ecommerce Model Patrick Rauland emphasizes the importance of three key decisions when starting an ecommerce business: selecting a business model, identifying the target market, and choosing the product. The course explores models including drop shipping, reselling, white labeling, manufacturing, digital goods, and handcrafted products. Rauland encourages aligning […]
I learned something new today, and I thought sharing it here was a good idea. I’m trying to update my resume using Photopea and I wasn’t finding the settings to print the PDF without margins, it seems so much easier using Word but I was struggling with Preview for some reason. Anyways, here are the […]
