A prospect asks to redesign their website. They want e-commerce functionality, credit card processing, and the ability to track stock levels of their inventory. Not simple, but definitely doable. You sketch out a plan for the site, and everything looks good. Then they ask about integration with their accounting system. The can of worms has officially been opened.

Now you are on the verge of becoming not just a Web shop, but an Integrated Solution Provider (ISP).

Often when we evaluate a client's needs, what begins as a request to build a new website reveals a much greater need at the customer's organization. Understanding how to realign the customer's perception of their problem toward the bigger picture can mean the difference between building a simple website that puts a bandage on the company's issues, and providing a comprehensive solution that incorporates a new website as well as systems that will help the company run better and more profitably.

You'll need to delve into potentially unfamiliar territory, tackling business processes such as inventory, purchasing, accounting and more. If you're used to just solving tech and design problems, i.e., how to build the best website for the customer, then this may be intimidating.

The good news is - there's an app for that. Actually, lots of them.

You may want to integrate the core business app with an email service provider. Or tie into a Human Resources Management (HRM) system; incorporate a customer relationship management (CRM) system. You might build a custom web solution.

We reveal best practices so your Web shop can be more profitable (and valuable). A highly regarded Drupal Association member joins us to share his experience.