When expanding your online presence with the software, you have two primary options to consider: creating a separate WordPress-integrated site or opting for a multi-location setup. Both approaches have their unique advantages and limitations. This guide will help you make an informed decision based on your specific business needs.
Option 1: Separate WordPress Integrated Site
Pros:
- Flexibility: You can create multiple separate websites without needing to start a new location.
- Selective Display: Choose which items to display on your new WordPress site, offering tailored inventory for different audiences.
- Cost-Effective: Hosting additional sites is just $10 extra per month for each site after the first.
- Custom Cart Settings: Differentiate your WordPress cart settings for each site.
Cons:
Shared Booking Settings: All bookings from the WordPress site will share the same settings, including:
- Delivery Fees
- Deposit Requirements
- Item pricing will be the same unless additional steps are taken to do an advanced setup
- Contact Email Address from which your customer's receive correspondence
- Payment Processing (same merchant service)
- General settings are shared
Option 2: Multi-Location Setup
Pros:
- Complete Separation: Operate an entirely separate entity within the same account.
- Distinct Settings: Each location can have its own fees, email contacts, merchant service provider, and other settings.
- Brand Differentiation: Ideal for distinct branding and operational processes for each location.
Cons:
- Larger Investment: Multi-location costs $50/month through the software or $100/month through EventOffice. Plus the $10/mo hosting for all additional site hosting after the first.
- Dual Management: Manage two locations within the same account, resembling two separate accounts but accessible through a single login. While offering the functionality of two separate accounts, this does require additional management for separate data sets and settings which can be more work.
Making Your Decision
When to Choose a Separate WordPress Site:
- If you're seeking a simple expansion without the need for differentiating brands.
- When identical pricing and settings across sites are acceptable.
- Ideal for those looking to increase their online presence while maintaining uniform operational settings.
When to Opt for Multi-Location:
- Essential for completely differentiated branding and operations.
- Best for scenarios requiring distinct settings (fees, email, merchant services) for each location.
- Recommended when managing separate entities under one umbrella without the hassle of separate accounts.
In summary, choose a separate WordPress integrated site for a straightforward, cost-effective expansion with uniform settings. Opt for a multi-location setup when brand differentiation and distinct operational settings are crucial for your business model. The choice depends on your specific business requirements and long-term strategy for growth and management.