[ Ecommerce platform · Buyer guide 2026 ]
// 13 / 20Choose for operations, economics and change.
Compare Shopify, WooCommerce and custom commerce using workflows and three-year cost.
[ Outcomes ]// 01
Make the buying decision clearer.
01Requirements-weighted platform choice
02Three-year cost comparison
03Migration and operating model
[ Delivery model ]// 02
Choose for internal capacity—not fashion.
| Model | Use when | Watch-out |
|---|---|---|
| Shopify | Speed, managed operations and standard commerce | App and platform constraints |
| WooCommerce | WordPress content and flexible ownership matter | Hosting, extension and maintenance burden |
| Custom commerce | Differentiated workflows create material value | Highest engineering and lifecycle cost |
| Composable / headless | Many channels and complex experience | Architecture and operations complexity |
[ Go deeper ]// 03
The full buyer's playbook.
The working reference for the procurement itself—everything you need once this guide has framed the decision.
Open the playbook ↗018 RFP questions that reveal real capability
025 failure risks with early warnings and controls
036 outcome metrics with baseline worksheets
04A 90-day plan from evidence to operating rhythm
056 plain-language definitions for the jargon
[ Choose your next step ]// 04
Turn the guide into a decision.
[ Ready to turn this guide into a buildable scope? ]