Getting Started with Auctiva

Classic vs. New

Well, classic is probably most similar to Turbo-lister, i.e. you do it at your desktop and then submit. Not my thing, so I'm doing a very simplifed comparision. I've been to the page and seen the free product (long time back).

The new site is a fully integrated over the network product (no desktop software) with one-page lister, templates, image library storage, checkout where you can use your Merchant card account, simple-Store (not ebay Store), Scrolling Gallery, Listing Scheduler, optional Shipping Insurance plan.... more like using the ebay one-page lister over the net, but with alot more features and FREE (except for insurance and anything they offer as custom build for you). Store Inventory is in beta, and full eCommerce Store is discussed by the Auctiva folks as potentially coming next fall (in time for XMAS season shoppers).

Generally, you use one method or the other but not both.

That's the quick version and probably answers question #1. It might also give you insight into relevance of #2 and #3, as those are more specific to Classic.

Most of what you probably have seen on ebay with those using the Auctiva templates and Scrolling Gallery are "NEW" site.

If you haven't yet completed getting the ebay Token on the new site, you'd best read the FAQ at HELP (top of page), as all your active listings will be pulled and updated with Auctiva embeds (like the SG)....and it takes time.

Danno

Store Inventory is in beta, and full eCommerce Store is discussed by the Auctiva folks as potentially coming next fall (in time for XMAS season shoppers).

These features sound so cool!!Can't wait to see what the ecommerce store will be like.

Generally, you use one method or the other but not both.

Could one use both? I am asking because it would be great for me to use the classic site for the desktop software since I'm stuck on dial up but still use the many neat features on the free site.

Thanks,
Momborch

www.autohobby4me.com

quote:

Could one use both? I am asking because it would be great for me to use the classic site for the desktop software since I'm stuck on dial up but still use the many neat features on the free site.

Thanks,
Momborch

Well, Yes, but it would probably be a pain to integrate things at the desktop for direct submission from Classic, e.g. the Scrolling Gallery. I'm honestly not sure they maintain the same template themes, etc. You'd need to carefully evaluate what you can and can't do from desktop in taking advantage of both sites features.

In truth, I'd consider an upgrade from dial for best use of either. However, Classic is probably a better candidtate for a dial user, as it dates to that era and functionaltiy would suffer for use of the new with low bandwidth.

I have thought about suggesting they add a desktop builder/lister/customer-backup feature to the NEW site to assist transition (porting from TL or BT or theirs) or low bandwidth users and provide a cleaner (best use of bandwidth and customer time) feature to NEW. It certainly would help those peak usage days and might help with after-hours upload of a days work in building listings. It could also be a potential work-around to a direct submisson option to other listing sites without breaking any contract or partnering with ebay agreements (JUST A THOUGHT JEFF).

Danno

In truth, I'd consider an upgrade from dial for best use of either. However, Classic is probably a better candidtate for a dial user, as it dates to that era and functionaltiy would suffer for use of the new with low bandwidth.


Can't upgrade.I'm in the boonies. Thanks for your advice about Classic being a better option for dial up because that is what I was sort of thinking but wasn't sure about it. Sorry, but can you explain what you mean when you say, "...functionality would suffer for use of the new with low bandwidth."...?

[i]I have thought about suggesting they add a desktop builder/lister/customer-backup feature to the NEW site to assist transition (porting from TL or BT or theirs) or low bandwidth users and provide a cleaner (best use of bandwidth and customer time) feature to NEW. It certainly would help those peak usage days and might help with after-hours upload of a days work in building listings. It could also be a potential work-around to a direct submisson option to other listing sites without breaking any contract or partnering with ebay agreements (JUST A THOUGHT JEFF).

Oh, you said it! A desktop lister feature on the NEW site would be so AWESOME!! I think it would help, not only us dial up users, but everyone for the reasons you already stated. I would just think it would be more convenient regardless of internet speed. Well, definitely more convenient for dial up but still pretty good for everyone.

Thanks for your reply, Danno. I appreciate it a bunch. Been racking my brains trying to come up with a good listing approach for our lousy dial up and make it a little bit faster but still nice with the templates and free image hosting/loading.
Sure has been difficult!!Thanks again.

Momborch

www.autohobby4me.com

At low bandwidth, you will have slower page loads and upload of pictures. If you are thinking eStore, or any heavy use of NEW, I'd look into DSL or T1 (phone company options) or see if your cable company will do anything at your location.

I'm not sure about the status of Classic, as I only briefly reviewed it as an option years ago. I'm not thinking they are putting the resources into Classic development, so it's likely a "dated" product. I think I saw CEO Jeff state something about that awhile back.

That's why a desktop "front-end" for the new might solve a number of problems, including your situation. I think Auctiva will have more pressure to expand the service to other venues in the coming months, so I'm thinking about HOW I'd make the play without stepping on the ebay toes. It hasn't passed my notice that ebay may jump on Auctiva's by forcing PayPal Only, i.e. stop Merchant cards on other than PayPal use. That would really force the issue on coming eComm and Auctiva checkout.

**Jeff**, you got to be spinning wildly on the possibilities and (as always) I'm still an ebay advocate (painfully)..... Their shifts are going to hurt us all without thinking ahead with a game plan on eComm should they force that issue. Stats on listings and sell-through are rising on the alternatives every day. My stats are taking a beating on the ONE, due primarily to Search visibility.

BTW....not listing now, not because I've joined any boycott. I'm trying to absorb all the new policy decisions and rapid change without accidently making some infraction that causes instant suspension. They are making changes so fast that their own reps aren't aware or can help....including PayPal. It's just a dangerous time to list, like going to sea from safe harbor in the middle of a hurricane.

Danno