How to Pick the Best Shopify Apps for Your Store

Building an online store is not an easy task. One of the secrets to creating a successful Shopify storefront is to utilise apps. With thousands of apps available in the Shopify App Store, finding the best fit for your store can be pretty overwhelming. But don’t worry – we’ve done the groundwork to help you make informed decisions and get the most out of your Shopify store.

Why Do You Need Shopify Apps?

Shopify apps can add powerful features to your store without requiring you to learn coding or make complex customisations. From integrating social media channels to offering custom discounts, apps help you expand functionality in ways that resonate with customers.

We’ve seen countless examples with our clients, where the right apps directly contribute to sales growth, improved customer experiences, and better store management.

How to Choose Suitable Shopify Apps for Your Store?

Selecting the best apps for Shopify isn’t just about picking the most popular ones. You’ll want to think carefully about your business needs, your budget, and how the app will impact your overall store experience.

1. Define Your Store’s Needs

The first step is understanding what your store actually requires. Are you looking to boost your marketing efforts, improve inventory management, or enhance customer service? Once you’ve defined your goals, you can narrow down the selection.

For example, we recommend apps like Okendo or Yotpo for businesses that want to showcase customer reviews to build trust, while apps like Klaviyo can help in Email & SMS Marketing. Knowing your needs will prevent you from installing unnecessary apps, which can clutter your store and slow down its performance.

2. Look for Reliable Reviews and Ratings

The Shopify App Store features thousands of apps, but not all of them offer the same quality. We always suggest checking reviews and ratings, as they’re a good indicator of an app’s reliability and user satisfaction. Pay attention to feedback from merchants in a similar industry, as their insights can be particularly valuable.

3. Consider the Cost and Free Trials

Most apps come with subscription fees, and while some are free, others can add up quickly. Always consider your budget when browsing for apps and check whether the app’s cost is likely to bring a good return on investment. Many apps offer free trials, so you can test them before committing – a great way to find out if the app suits your needs without risking any cash.

4. Check for Seamless Integration with Shopify

Make sure any Shopify app you consider will integrate well with your store’s existing setup. Some apps work better with specific Shopify themes or may have compatibility issues with other installed apps. You can typically find this information on the app listing page, or from reviews.

5. Customer Support and Documentation

A good app is only as effective as its support team. Apps with excellent customer support can save you a lot of headaches. We think it’s important to choose apps that come with clear documentation, tutorials, and responsive support teams. When something goes wrong, having access to reliable support can make a huge difference.

6. Focus on Speed and Performance

Adding too many apps can slow down your site, which can harm both user experience and SEO. We always advise clients to keep an eye on their site’s loading speed, especially when introducing new apps. Test your store’s performance after each installation and consider removing any apps that negatively impact speed.

Final Thoughts

Picking the best Shopify apps for your store is about knowing your needs, researching thoroughly, and keeping a close eye on performance. By following these steps, you can add functionality that enhances both your store’s backend operations and your customers’ experience. At Fluency, we’ve helped clients choose apps that fit seamlessly into their workflows, making a noticeable difference in their growth and efficiency.

If you’re unsure which Shopify apps to install or want more insights on making your Shopify store shine, reach out to us. We’d be happy to guide you through the process and ensure you’re set up for success.

Let’s make your eCommerce journey as smooth as possible!