What are KPIs

Explore the advantages and helpful considerations for sellers.
29th Mar, 2023
4 MIN

What are Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)?

Running an online business is exciting, but it can be a little overwhelming, right? Whether you sell clothes or sell furniture online, you're juggling a million things, from products and marketing to shipping and customer service.

It's easy to get lost in the day-to-day. But what if you had a tool to help you see the bigger picture? That's where Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) come in.

Think of KPIs as your business's guide, guiding you toward success. Let's dive in and learn how they can work for you.

What Exactly Are KPIs, Anyway?

You know you need them, but what are they? KPIs, or Key Performance Indicators, might sound a bit like something your accountant would bore you with, but they're actually pretty straightforward!

Think of Them Like Your Business's Guide

Imagine you're going on a road trip. You wouldn't just hop in the car and drive without knowing where you're going, would you? KPIs are like your roadmap to success. They tell you how your business is travelling and help you stay on track to reach your destination - hitting those business goals!


Basically, key performance indicators are metrics that you choose to measure yourself against in order to judge success.

Why Are KPIs so Important?

KPIs are essential for any business aiming to succeed. These metrics offer a clear picture of how well your business is performing in various areas. By setting and tracking KPIs, you can pinpoint what's working and what isn't, allowing you to make informed decisions that drive growth.

Without KPIs, you're essentially flying blind, making it difficult to steer your business in the right direction. KPIs provide a roadmap, helping you stay focused on your goals and measure your progress. They turn abstract objectives into measurable targets, making it easier to achieve your business ambitions.

Measuring Metrics That Matter

In the world of business, not all metrics are created equal. KPIs are all about measuring what truly matters to your business. Whether it's sales growth, customer satisfaction, or operational efficiency, KPIs help you focus on the areas that have the biggest impact on your bottom line.

By zeroing in on these critical areas, you can allocate resources more effectively, streamline operations, and ultimately increase your profitability. KPIs help you identify strengths to build on and weaknesses to address, ensuring that every effort contributes to making your business more profitable. When you measure what matters, you can make smarter decisions that lead to better financial outcomes.

Staying on Track & Reaping the Rewards

Consistency is key to long-term success, and KPIs are your tool for staying on track. By regularly monitoring your KPIs, you can ensure that your business remains aligned with its strategic goals. This ongoing measurement allows you to make timely adjustments, keeping you on the path to success.

The rewards of tracking KPIs go beyond just meeting targets. When you consistently achieve your KPIs, you're not only hitting your business goals but also creating a culture of accountability and performance. This can boost team morale and drive better results across the board. In the end, staying on track with your KPIs means you’re more likely to reap the rewards of sustained growth and success.

How Do You Choose the Right KPIs?

You're probably thinking, "Okay, KPIs sound great, but how do I actually pick the right ones for my online store?" Don't worry, it's not as tricky as it sounds!

Start With Your Overall Business Goals

Think about what you really want to achieve with your business. Do you want to:

• Boost your sales?
• Find new customers?
• Keep your current customers coming back for more?

Once you know your main goals, you can choose KPIs that show you how you're tracking.

KPIs by Industry

It's also helpful to see what other online sellers in your industry are tracking. Here are a few examples:

• If you sell clothes online: You might look at KPIs like website traffic, conversion rate (how many visitors actually buy something), and average order value.
• If you sell handmade jewellery: You might focus on KPIs like social media engagement, customer reviews, and repeat purchase rate.

The most important thing is to choose KPIs that are relevant to your specific business goals and industry. That way, you can use them to make smart decisions and grow your business!

Frequently Asked Questions About KPIs

What Are Some Common KPIs for Online Businesses?

Online businesses often track these KPIs:

Conversion Rate: Percentage of visitors who make a purchase.
Customer Acquisition Cost (CAC): Cost of acquiring a new customer.
Customer Lifetime Value (CLV): Total revenue expected from a single customer over time.
Bounce Rate: Percentage of visitors who leave after viewing one page.
Average Order Value (AOV): Average amount spent per order.
Cart Abandonment Rate: Percentage of shoppers who don't complete a purchase.

These KPIs help you understand your sales funnel, customer behaviour, and marketing effectiveness.

How Often Should I Be Tracking My KPIs?

The frequency of tracking KPIs depends on your business and the specific metrics. Here are some guidelines:

Daily: Track real-time metrics like website traffic and sales.
Weekly: Review conversion rates, bounce rates, and cart abandonment.
Monthly: Analyse CAC, CLV, and AOV for overall performance.
Quarterly: Review all KPIs to evaluate long-term trends and progress.

Regular tracking keeps you informed and helps you make proactive adjustments.

My KPIs Are Going in the Wrong Direction?

If your KPIs are off track, here’s what to do:

1. Identify the Cause: Pinpoint what's causing the drop.
2. Adjust Your Strategy: Modify your approach to address the issue.
3. Set Realistic Goals: Ensure your KPIs are achievable and aligned with your strategy.
4. Monitor Progress: Regularly check your KPIs to see if changes are working.
5. Seek Expert Advice: Consult with a business analyst or digital marketing expert if needed.

KPIs are tools to help you improve. Negative trends are learning opportunities to make better decisions and drive success.

Level Up Your Business with the Power of KPIs

So, we've covered the basics of KPIs. You've now got a good idea of what they are and how they can help you keep track of your business.

Think of it like this: Running an online business is a bit like a game, right? KPIs are your scoreboard. They tell you how you're doing, where you're winning and where you might need to try a new strategy.

And if you're looking for a top-notch playing field, you can't go past Amazon. It's like the MCG of online marketplaces! Millions of shoppers, ready to discover your awesome products.

Using KPIs can help you make the most of this massive opportunity. You can track your sales, see what customers love, and even work out the best times to launch new products.

Ready to take your online business to the next level? Start using KPIs today and watch your business grow.

Important: The following information is provided for convenience and general reference purposes only. It is not tax, legal, or other professional advice and must not be used as such. You should consult your professional advisers if you have any questions or need further detail.
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