Before we enter into the B2B Vs. B2C debate it is important for us to know what B2B and B2C are. Business-to-Business or B2B refers to the online buying and selling of products, services or information between companies. It often covers the entire supply chain management. Business-to-Consumer or B2C refers to the online selling of products, services or information by companies to consumers for their own use. 

For More Information:  B2B Web Design

B2B vs. B2C

• The basic difference between B2B and B2C is that in B2B the customers are companies where as in B2C the customers are individuals.
• B2B transactions are more complex as compared to B2C transactions.
• B2B transactions involve lot of negotiations over price, delivery and product specifications. B2C transactions, on the other hand, involve a specific product, price and mode of delivery.
• B2B transactions require integration with the other companies’ systems. This is important for communication. B2C on the other hand does not require any integration with their customers.
• B2C transactions are mostly done through credit cards. B2B transaction on the other hand may require setting up an account with the company.
• B2B and B2C require different marketing strategies. B2C customers do online price comparisons between competing B2B sites for the best possible price.
• The sales process takes a longer time for B2B Company than for a B2C company.

• B2B websites sell big value items or services. Their products are specialised and specific. B2C websites sell small items and mostly one time sale. B2B websites involve a long-term business relationship, support services, upgrades and modifications.
• B2B purchases require evaluating multiple factors. They require much more research, thought and analysis before a purchase is made. The B2C purchase process, on the other hand is fairly simple. It mostly involves price comparisons between competitors before the purchase. This is a quick and easy job on the Internet.
• B2B websites provide lot more information as compared to B2C websites. They require presentation of information in a concise and detailed format. The client may need concise information to know about the products and then detailed information to decide on purchasing it.
• Good content is the prerequisite for the success of both B2B and B2C sites. Content on a B2B site is more technical in nature while content on a B2C site is more general and in a layman’s language.
• B2C website users mostly use the product themselves. They alone complete the entire buying process on the site. The buying process on a B2B site may involve different people or departments at different stages of the buying process. So, a B2B site has to provide information that caters to people with varying needs and requirements. That is why B2B websites should be designed with usability in mind.
• One major difference between B2B and B2C websites is that most B2C websites do not have as shopping cart. This is because product and services sold on a B2B website require more presale discussion, price negotiation and customisation of the product before a sale is executed.
• B2C websites are more directly responsible for sales as compared to B2B websites. That is why B2C websites are more specific about e-commerce rules and practices.

Tip: Though B2B websites are more complex, they also offer more revenue-generating potential. This is why you should not overlook B2B online business opportunities!

If you would like to learn more about Popular B2B vs. B2B web development please contact us.