NetSuite adds e-commerce tool to back office apps

E-commerce 2007 adds analytics, customer self-service, and payment and shipping options to the hosted program. The firm also said it is offering “the full multi” with multi-currency, multi-language and multi-site support.

At the same time, NetSuite is integrating with eBay by automating listings, inventory, order management and fulfilment for firms selling goods on the auction site.

It is also taking cues from another online giant, Amazon.com, by adding functions such as gift certificates, discount coupons, cross-selling, free shipping and the ability for users to email pages to friends.

Core functions have also been strengthened. For example, site owners can take advantage of help in creating pages for so-called matrix items with multiple detail options, such as shirts or other items of clothing.

“We’re trying to address everything the customer doesn’t see behind the scenes,” said Craig Sullivan, NetSuite vice-president of international products.

NetSuite’s core market for the e-commerce product is companies with up to 250 staff.

Charles Kennard, channel director of multimedia accessories firm Miglia Technology, said, “It’s incredibly powerful for a company like us that needs to track components to finished product and then sell through to distributors or via a web store for products and software downloads. It’s fully integrated and gives us everything we need. My only frustration is that the user interface could be friendlier. You need to get that configuration right early on.”