What’s Holding You Back: Marie Kondo and Changing Technology

If you have been online anytime in the last month or so, you’ve probably heard of Marie Kondo and her Netflix show, “Tidying Up with Marie Kondo.” Kondo’s method of tidying, the Konmari Method, encourages its followers to only keep items that “spark joy,” letting go of the old items and methods of organization that keep them from living their optimal lives.

The dangers of existing in outdated systems is not a concept that is lost on those in the eCommerce space. Just as Kondo illustrates how holding on to old items that go unused keeps people trapped in a lifestyle that does not reflect who they are, holding on to old technology that no longer serves the needs of your business results in a poorly represented brand online. So just how do you know if your tech is holding you back?

First review what you have. Kondo recommends sorting all items of one kind at once. That means pulling out all your clothes from all areas of the house and viewing it as one pile, then sorting through it. In the same vein, performing a complete audit of your eCommerce tech stack can help set you up for a clean slate when it comes to developing your eCommerce strategy. A good place to start is by asking your eCommerce vendors about their processes and internal systems to ensure alignment with your goals.

Remove what no longer serves its purpose. Kondo suggests thanking items that no longer serve you, and giving them away. Outdated technology, like an eCommerce platform that no longer supports your business needs, can be detrimental to your business. If you are experiencing high abandoned cart rates, low brand engagement, sluggish on-site conversions, or if you aren’t hitting your revenue goals, it may be time to replatform. Your tech stack is only as good as its weakest link. Don’t let your tech stand in the way of your brand’s growth.

Maintain what you do have. Once you decide on the pieces that should stay in your home, Kondo details a clear system of tidying and organizing to keep your items visible and useful. Schedule regular check-ins with your eCommerce partners, and monitor your site performance to determine what is continuously adding value to your business, and what is not.

Maintaining a clean, organized home is not entirely dissimilar to maintaining a healthy business. Regular check-ins, sweeps, and bouts of tidying help to ensure you are surrounded by partners that support your growth and technologies that are developed with your needs in mind.

If you think it may be time for a replatform, read our whitepaper first. If you have questions, or if you’re interested in a free eCommerce site road map, sign up for an appointment with one of our advisors.

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