1. Start with your product requirements

Before selecting any technology, it’s important to deep dive into the desired features and functionalities of your product.

Map out the performance expectations Considering factors such as product features, high priority customer journeys and load times.

Let’s say you are designing a new e-commerce website for a clothing brand, the website will need to have features such as product listings, filters, a shopping cart, a checkout process and a customer account section.

You might also need a shipping logistic tool. The website will need to have a responsive design, fast loading speeds and be easy to navigate.

2. Choose and trial technologies that work well together

It’s crucial that you test the compatibility of your tools before deciding upon your tech stack.

This will ensure that your product functions seamlessly, and reduces the risk of integration issues down the line.

For example, you would want to ensure that your chosen payment gateway integrates well with your CRM software, passing the correct data to allow for customer order tracking, correct distribution and optimised marketing opportunities

By testing the compatibility of the tools ahead of entering into service agreements, you can avoid being tied to tools that cause pain points for your customers.

4. Prioritise security

Security must be a top priority when designing any product and your tech stack should reflect this.

From protecting user data to building brand trust and ensuring continuity of service, security is a key consideration.

Your product may be handling sensitive information such as customer names, addresses and credit card information. If this information falls into the wrong hands, it can lead to financial loss, reputation damage and loss of customer trust.

Consider tools with built-in security features like encryption, access management and threat detection. Do your due-diligence as it’s your reputation on the line.

5. Keep it simple

Focus on the essential features and functionalities that are crucial to your business, rather than adding unnecessary complexities that can increase your costs.

Using the minimum number of different technologies when building an app can simplify development, improve performance and ease maintenance. By reducing complexity and technology dependencies, engineering teams can build faster, more efficient and sustainable apps.

Consider using tools with pre-built templates, built-in payment gateways and product management features to take away integration pain points.

Closing thoughts

Ensuring that you have the right tech stack from the beginning is the best way to set you up for success. It’s important to constantly review it, ensuring that technologies are being utilised efficiently and effectively.