Very shortly SharedBook will be launching expedited shipping options - just in time for the holidays. This feature is a significant upgrade to our shopping cart, allowing customers to choose overnight, second day, and ground shipping with full tracking (in addition to our current free standard shipping).
I feel a bit like the proud father waiting for the blessed arrival. Not just because this is my first major project to be released, but because it is one of those great features that touches all aspects of our business. To really see how impactful this new function is, I tend to look at it backwards.
Obviously the biggest benefit is to the customer receiving their book as fast as possible. So the delivery and associated tracking capability they'll have is vital. Just preceding this is our operational staff who oversee the production of the book and all the new accounting processes to monitor the costs of such a service.
Before this can take place is the development of the web site changes to quote customers the price (which depends on the number of books and where in the world they'll be shipped). And even more complicated - the estimated delivery date for the shipment so users can make an informed decision.
Prior to that is the marketing message to bring customers to our doors. From emailing registered users about the last order date to ensure delivery in time for Christmas to working with our Business Development group to help our partners get the word our about the value of their content as the perfect gift book.
Come to think of it - this feature has many expectant parents. Cigars for everyone!
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