Write down the store requirements first
Choose a platform after you understand how the business will sell and operate. List the catalogue size, variations, delivery rules, payment requirements, order channels, staff roles and systems that must connect to the store.
For a Kenyan business, confirm the payment provider and integration you need before selecting a theme or committing to a platform. A familiar payment name is not enough: check account eligibility, supported transactions, fees and the actual customer checkout journey.
When to consider Shopify
Shopify is a commerce platform for building and operating an online store. It is worth considering when your team wants a managed platform and your requirements fit its available capabilities and integrations.
Evaluate the complete operating cost and workflow. Include the platform plan, theme, required apps, payment-related costs and implementation support. Ask the team who will upload products, manage orders and update content to try the proposed workflow.
When to consider WooCommerce
WooCommerce brings commerce functionality to WordPress. Consider it when WordPress content and a flexible store setup are important to your business.
Plan who will maintain hosting, plugins, backups and compatibility. Flexibility can be useful, but the practical value depends on a maintained implementation and a team that understands how to operate it. Test extensions together instead of assuming every combination will work.
- Check product variations and stock behaviour.
- Test payments, shipping and order notifications.
- Document the update and recovery process.
When custom development may be appropriate
A custom application can be appropriate when essential workflows or integrations are difficult to implement reliably on an existing platform. Examples include unusual approval flows, specialist ordering logic or a customer portal connected to internal systems.
Custom development needs a clear scope and an ongoing maintenance plan. Define which requirements are essential now, what can wait and how the business will manage the system after launch. Do not choose a custom build solely for visual differences that a standard platform can already support.
Compare the total journey, not just the launch quote
Shortlist the platforms against your actual requirements and ask for a demonstration of the most important journey. Compare implementation, operating costs, staff effort, integrations, support and the ability to change suppliers later.
The best fit is the system your business can operate reliably within its budget. Keep the final decision tied to practical requirements rather than a universal claim that one platform is best for everyone.