Forums: Discussions for entrepreneurs and small business.

I have a question about online competitor analysis - I'm looking to start a custom printed clothing store targeted towards campus organizations, such as fraternities and clubs. However, I'm wondering what the competition would be like, since I've noticed that there's a fair amount of stores that operate exclusively online (such as this one). How would my new business fare against competitors online, especially when I don't have a local audience? Any advice is welcome, thanks!

This is very common issue about that every person think before opening his business. If you want to open a new business then it becomes necessary for you to know about your competitor position because you will update yourself and your business services according to your competitor position. You can search on internet that how many competitors are there who are running same business as you are running.

I like to use google to get an idea of who the top dogs are. Type in your main keywords and see who comes up. Once you identify the top few players there are a ton of tools out there which allow you to assess their websites. i have a toolbar that shows me the number of indexed pages, age, Alexa rank, and a bunch of other metrics. These give a good insight on a companies web presence and consequently how hard it would be to compete with them. SEO quake offers such a tool.

TJ

ShyEntrepreneur

I agree with ShyEntrepreneur.

However, don't be discouraged if you find big competitors. Often times there are many subniches you can find with much smaller competition. In those subniches you can offer better services (usually not better prices though and thats OK). I would also suggest talking to as many potential customers to find opportunities to do things better and understanding what their needs are!

Goodluck!

It sounds like you are worrying too much about back links. Focus on your content and user experience. People will find your site, it cannot be helped. Your real concern is getting them to stay longer and come back. If people like what they find on your site they are more likely to return and tell their friends about it.

http://www.shelterislandhideaway.com/

It will be very hard to sell online with a lot of competition but it is doable - requires time, work and patience. You need to research competition with your local market. 

Start this business if this is where you are good at or if you think you can outlast the competition. If you can create better designs and have more quality - you can do it. If not, you will only be wasting your time and money in this business. 

It will be very complicated to offer on the internet with a lot of competitors but it is possible - needs time, perform and perseverance. You need to analysis competitors with your regional industry.

Research takes time, but its really worth it. And to compete with other businesses you must have something unique that will be your forefront to your business. Could be a product or service that will give you the edge over the competition. And don't emulate your competitors strategy.