Posts from — November 2008

It’s not just the topic of choice for recent Presidential candidates, it’s what’s happening on eBay too.

Over the past year eBay has made sweeping changes to its site.  Those changes have included listing policies, fees and even site design.  Actually, there are so many changes, let’s recap them…

Buy It Now format changed to 30-day duration
If your Detailed Seller Rating (DSR) falls below 4.3 you’re selling status is suspended
Yet more changes to the ‘Best Match’ algorithm to include what is being called ‘Recent Sales’.
Site implied restrictions on shipping for the Media category
Sellers no longer allowed to accept any type of paper payments – checks/money orders
eBay is closing eBay Express
eBay is incenting selelrs who offer free shipping with better search results and increased discounts on final value fees.
New View Item page
New About Me page layouts
New ‘I-frame’ template integration
Restrictions placed on multiple identical listings
Restrictions removed on multiple identical listings
Feedback ‘change’ instituted
On-site pay-per click style advertising that allows eBay sellers to advertise their listings and eBay Stores via a text ad on eBay search result pages.

And these are just in the past month or two!

Even for those working within the e-commerce/web-design community it’s been quite challenging to keep up.  Many users have abandoned the site altogether while others have capitalized on the new environment and are prospering.  Using qualified service providers can make the difference.  Keep yourself qualified!

From the standpoint of a certified eBay-stores designer, there have been many changes to the landscape as well.  From new View Item page standards to the upcoming Store changes, change is happening for certain.  Keeping yourself educated will be key and using services who are savvy and ahead of the curve will be paramount.  With eBay’s page views down over 30% from October of 2007 to October of 2008, sellers can’t afford to be sloppy.  Capturing the buyer’s interest now is more important than ever.

In early 2009 there are more changes (restrictions) coming, so stay tuned, alert and ahead of the curve.