how to tell what ecommerce platform a site is using

3 min read 27-12-2024

how to tell what ecommerce platform a site is using

Ecommerce is booming, and with it comes a multitude of platforms powering online stores. Knowing which platform a competitor or potential client uses can be incredibly valuable. This guide reveals several methods to identify the ecommerce platform behind a website. This is useful for market research, choosing a platform for your own store, or simply satisfying your curiosity!

Inspecting the Website's Source Code

One of the most reliable methods involves directly examining the website's source code. This involves looking for tell-tale signs embedded within the site's HTML, CSS, and JavaScript files.

How to Inspect the Source Code:

Right-click anywhere on the website.
Select "Inspect" or "Inspect Element" (the exact wording might vary slightly depending on your browser).
This will open your browser's developer tools, typically showing the website's HTML code.

What to Look For:

Meta tags and comments: Some platforms leave behind comments or meta tags within the code. These may contain hints about the platform used. Search for comments containing words like "Shopify," "Magento," "WooCommerce," or other platform names.
Javascript libraries and files: Look for references to Javascript libraries commonly associated with specific platforms. For example, Shopify often uses its own Javascript libraries. Pay attention to file names and URLs.
Class names and IDs: Many platforms use specific class names and IDs in their HTML, which can be a clue. Look for patterns or names that suggest a particular platform. This takes experience and familiarity with different platforms.

Remember, this method requires some technical knowledge. If you're not comfortable examining code, the following methods are more user-friendly.

Using Third-Party Tools and Extensions

Several browser extensions and online tools are specifically designed to identify ecommerce platforms. These tools automate much of the process of inspecting source code, providing quicker results.

Popular Tools & Extensions (availability may vary):

BuiltWith: This popular website technology profiler can often identify the ecommerce platform used. Simply enter the website URL and it will analyze the site's technologies.
Chrome extensions: Search the Chrome Web Store for extensions that specifically identify ecommerce platforms. Many are free and easy to use.

These tools aren't always perfect, and may miss some platforms or provide inaccurate results. Use them in conjunction with other methods for a more reliable identification.

Looking for Visual Cues and Branding

While not foolproof, observing visual cues and branding can offer clues. Each platform has its own style and design elements.

Checkout process: Some platforms have distinct checkout processes. If you recognize the look and feel, it can help you narrow down your choices.
Theme design: Familiarize yourself with the common themes used for different platforms. A website with a specific design style may indicate a certain platform.
Branding: Some platforms may include subtle branding elements on the site’s footer or within the code. Look for logos or links related to specific platform providers. However, this can be easily hidden or removed.

This method is the least reliable as many platforms allow extensive customization, masking the original platform’s aesthetic.

Asking the Website Owner

The simplest method is often the most effective. If you're trying to identify a competitor's platform or need information for business purposes, consider reaching out to the website owner. A polite email inquiring about their ecommerce solution can provide an accurate answer.

Conclusion: Combining Methods for Best Results

Identifying the ecommerce platform of a website usually requires a combined approach. Using the source code inspection along with a third-party tool offers the highest chance of accurate identification. Remember to respect website terms of service and avoid scraping data without permission. Using these methods responsibly will ensure you get the information you need while respecting website owners. While visual cues can provide hints, they should not be relied upon for definitive answers. Using a multi-pronged approach provides the most robust results.