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Shopify vs WooCommerce

Course Content
Copyright Agreement
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UAMS Copyright Agreement
Use of Material
Website & E‑Commerce Basics
This module introduces learners to the core concepts behind websites and online stores. Students explore how websites work (domains, hosting, CMS vs hosted platforms) and gain a clear understanding of different website and e-commerce models. The module covers foundational platforms such as WordPress, WooCommerce, and Shopify, including their purpose, strengths, and common use cases. Learners also review essential setup concepts like site structure, navigation, basic SEO, and store functionality.
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How Websites Work (domains, hosting)
00:00
CMS vs Hosted Platforms
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Intro to WordPress & Shopify
00:00
Types of Websites and Online Stores
00:00
Knowledge Check: Website & E-Commerce Basics
Domains, Hosting & Setup
This module explains the foundational components required to launch a website or online store. Learners explore how domain names work, how web hosting stores and delivers website content, and the role of DNS in connecting the two. The module also introduces hosting types, setup considerations, and basic installation workflows for platforms like WordPress and Shopify. By the end of the module, learners can confidently choose a domain, understand hosting options, and complete the initial setup needed to get a website online.
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Choosing a Domain Name
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Web Hosting Basics
00:00
Installing WordPress (local & live)
00:00
Creating a Shopify Account
00:00
WordPress Dashboard & Settings
This module introduces learners to the WordPress admin dashboard and its core settings. Students explore the layout of the dashboard, key menu areas, and the purpose of essential settings such as site title, permalinks, user roles, reading, and discussion options. The module emphasizes how proper configuration affects site usability, SEO, and security. By the end of the module, learners can confidently navigate the WordPress dashboard and configure settings to support a well-structured, functional website.
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WordPress Dashboard & Settings
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WordPress Admin Overview
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Pages, Posts, Media
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Permalinks & User Roles
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Themes & Customization
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Block Editor vs Page Builders
00:00
Using Elementor in WordPress
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Responsive Design Basics
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Backups, Updates & Security
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Shopify Platform Overview
This module introduces learners to Shopify as a leading hosted e-commerce platform. Students explore its key features, including store setup, themes, apps, and integrations, and understand how Shopify simplifies online selling for businesses of all sizes. By the end of the module, learners can explain Shopify’s functionality, identify its advantages, and determine when it is the right platform for an online store.
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Shopify Ecosystem
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Shopify vs WooCommerce
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Admin Dashboard Tour
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Themes & Customization
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Products & Collections
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Navigation & Pages
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SEO for Shopify
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Email & Social Selling
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Analytics & Reporting
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Launch & Maintenance
This module guides learners through the final steps of preparing, launching, and maintaining an online store. Students explore pre-launch checklists, performance testing, ongoing updates, backups, security, and routine maintenance for both Shopify and WordPress sites. The module emphasizes best practices for keeping stores secure, fast, and operational post-launch. By the end of the module, learners can confidently launch a website or store and implement a consistent maintenance routine to ensure long-term stability and growth.
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Pre‑launch Checklists
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Performance Testing
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Ongoing Maintenance (Shopify)
Ongoing Maintenance (WordPress)
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Website Security & Account Protection
By the end of this lesson, learners will understand why website security matters, how accounts get hacked, and how to protect websites and online accounts using simple, everyday tools like strong passwords and Two-Factor Authentication (2FA).
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What Is Website Security?
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Common Website Security Threats
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Password Security Basics
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Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
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Website-Level Security Tools
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Everyday Security Habits
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Website Learning Lab

Module Overview

This lesson helps learners understand the differences, advantages, and limitations of Shopify and WooCommerce. Comparing these two popular e-commerce platforms helps businesses choose the right solution based on their needs, budget, and technical skills.

Learning Objectives

By the end of this lesson, learners will be able to:

  • Compare Shopify and WooCommerce on key features, cost, and flexibility

  • Identify which platform is suitable for different business types

  • Understand pros and cons of hosted vs self-hosted solutions

  • Make informed decisions for platform selection

Lesson 1: Overview of Each Platform

Shopify

  • Hosted e-commerce platform (all-in-one solution)

  • User-friendly, requires minimal technical skills

  • Monthly subscription with optional transaction fees

  • Large app ecosystem for extended functionality

  • Hosting, security, and updates managed automatically

WooCommerce

  • WordPress plugin that turns a site into an online store

  • Self-hosted; requires hosting, domain, and WordPress setup

  • Free core plugin, optional paid extensions

  • Highly flexible and customizable

  • User responsible for hosting, security, and updates

Lesson 2: Key Comparison Areas

Feature Shopify WooCommerce
Hosting Included Self-hosted (requires hosting provider)
Technical Skill Beginner-friendly Intermediate (WordPress knowledge helpful)
Cost Monthly subscription + apps Free core + hosting + paid plugins
Customization Limited to theme & apps Highly customizable with code & plugins
Security & Maintenance Managed by Shopify Managed by site owner (plugins, updates, backups)
Payment Gateways Shopify Payments + others Multiple via plugins (Stripe, PayPal, etc.)
App/Plugin Ecosystem Large app store Extensive plugin ecosystem
Scalability Easy to scale, handled by Shopify Scalable, depends on hosting plan & optimization

Lesson 3: Pros and Cons

Shopify Pros

  • Easy to set up and maintain

  • Hosting, security, and updates included

  • Professional support 24/7

  • Optimized for speed and uptime

Shopify Cons

  • Monthly fees can add up

  • Less flexibility for custom features

  • Transaction fees unless using Shopify Payments

WooCommerce Pros

  • Highly customizable and flexible

  • Large plugin ecosystem

  • Full control over hosting and site management

  • Lower entry cost if using basic hosting

WooCommerce Cons

  • Requires technical knowledge (hosting, WordPress updates)

  • Security and maintenance are user’s responsibility

  • Can become costly with multiple extensions

Lesson 4: Use Cases

  • Shopify: Best for businesses wanting an easy-to-manage, all-in-one platform without technical setup.

  • WooCommerce: Best for those who want full control, custom functionality, and already use WordPress.

Practical Activity

  • List your store requirements (budget, technical skill, customization needs).

  • Evaluate which platform (Shopify or WooCommerce) fits these requirements.

  • Compare costs, payment options, and scalability for a small store.

  • Optional: Create a simple pros/cons table for both platforms based on your findings.

Key Takeaways

  • Shopify and WooCommerce serve different needs: Shopify for ease-of-use and managed hosting, WooCommerce for flexibility and control.

  • Consider technical skill, budget, desired features, and growth plans when choosing.

  • Both platforms are powerful and can support a successful online store when used appropriately.

Exercise Files
Shopify or WooCommerce.png
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