With the recent release of Magento 2.0, a lot of buzz has been happening at the Echidna office. As an eCommerce agency, many of our clients not only come to us for design and development, but consulting on platform options. Those currently on Magento are wondering if upgrading 2.0 is the right fit and in some cases wondering if they should move away from the platform and evaluate other providers altogether. It also has those retailers on other platforms asking if moving to Magento 2.0 would benefit them. All this buzzing had me running to catch up with Amzed Hussain, who is Echidna's Senior Director Technology Delivery & Innovation, to get his insight on the topic.
Kali: I know you've been at this for close to two decades and have seen some serious changes in the eCommerce world and overseen implementations for mid to large scale e-commerce platforms like Oracle ATG, Demandware, Magento and Mozu. I'm curious what upgrades and improvements do you think will have the biggest impact on Magento retailers with the new release of Magento 2.0?
Amzed Hussain: The biggest impact creating features for Magento retailers with most awaited Magento 2.0 are going to be improved performance and scalability, better security, and a faster time to market- making it easier for site maintenance and improving conversions.
KK: So if you've decided moving to Magento 2.0 is right for your business, what are some common pitfalls an online merchant should look out for when making the migration to Magento 2.0?
AH: Yes, so Magento 2.0 does have a limited set of pitfalls. A major pitfall where Magento using merchants needs to be cautious is extensions compatibility. There are thousands of Magento authorized/certified extensions which are serving customized and non OOTB requirements of customers and one should mandatorily focus of extension compatibility with 2.0
KK: With the release of Magento 2.0, how will it affect the e-Commerce community, in your opinion? What do you, personally, expect from this long anticipated platform?
AH: There are two key e-commerce communities, one is the retailer community and the other is platform.
In terms of Retailers -
o Upgradation, where Cost and time involved
o Getting associated with Implementation Partner
And when talking platform community - all the competitors are going to evaluate and compare where they have challenges to come up with their own strategy to withstand in the market.
KK: Very true. Last question, I know Magento uses extensions and modules. Let me ask you to name 3 must-have extensions for Magento-based websites in your opinion.
AH: Magento is a giant store of extensions where listing just 3 must have's is a tough decision to make. But when it comes to modules where extensions are widely used, 3 must consider modules where extension usage is high would be:
o Payment Gateway
o Product Merchandising
o Analytics &Marketing (Campaigning)
What are your thoughts on the long-anticipated Magento 2.0 being available? Will you be attending the Imagine Conference this April in Las Vegas to learn more?
Bloggers Note: Interested in leveraging these ideas for your own organization or simply hearing more? Our team will be at the upcoming Imagine Conference by Magento and if you will be also, let's connect! You can always contact me at kali@echidnainc.com and visit www.echidnainc.com, where our company mission is to delight our customers with fresh perspectives in e-commerce, UX, mobile app development, and digital marketing.