Design and Implementation of a Modular E-Commerce Platform for Small Businesses

The evolution of online marketplaces has made E-commerce an essential component of the world economy. This thesis provides the design, implementation, and testing of a modular E-commerce platform that is particularly suited for small businesses. The suggested system utilizes cutting-edge web development standards, scalable backend design, secure payment processing, and a responsive frontend UI In addressing the digital divide, the project aims to provide merchants with low-cost, flexible solutions and ease in implementation, even with very limited technical ability. The implemented business functionality included user sign up/sign in authentication, product management, order processing as it pertains to the shopping cart and allowing pay for those orders, as well an administrative function. A series of security, usability, and performance tests were conducted to validate the system.