Upgrade to Checkout Extensibility

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. What is Checkout Extensibility?
3. Technologies in Checkout Extensibility
   • Checkout UI Extensions
   • The Branding API
   • Shopify Functions
   • Post Purchase Checkout Extensions
   • Web Pixel Extensions
4. Migrating Customizations
   • Visual Review
   • Code Review
   • Checking for Active Shopify Scripts
5. Feature Mapping
6. Implementing a Delivery Date Picker
   • Creating a Development Store
   • Generating a Shopify App
   • Adding the Checkout UI Extension
   • Importing Pre-Built Components
   • Implementing the Date Picker
   • Using Meta Fields for Data Storage
   • Testing and Confirming the Functionality
7. Conclusion

What is Checkout Extensibility?

Checkout extensibility is a powerful feature offered by Shopify that allows customization of the checkout process. It comprises multiple technologies that enable merchants to add custom content elements, change the look of the checkout, implement new business logic, offer post-purchase upsells, and track buyer behavior. In this article, we will explore the different technologies involved in checkout extensibility and provide a step-by-step framework for migrating customizations to the new checkout extensibility.

Technologies in Checkout Extensibility

Checkout UI Extensions

Checkout UI extensions allow merchants to add custom content elements throughout the checkout process. These elements could include trust badges, banners, custom messages, or address input validations. By using the pre-built UI extension components provided by Shopify, developers can save time and ensure accessibility and compatibility.

The Branding API

The Branding API is a technology in checkout extensibility that enables merchants to change the look and feel of the checkout. It allows customization of the colors, fonts, and styles to align with the merchant's brand identity. By leveraging the Branding API, merchants can create a seamless and cohesive shopping experience for their customers.

Shopify Functions

Shopify functions are a powerful tool in checkout extensibility that allows developers to implement new business logic in the checkout process. This includes offering bundle offers, hiding or showing different shipping methods based on the items in the cart, or applying specific rules based on customer preferences. With Shopify functions, merchants can enhance the functionality and usability of their checkout.

Post Purchase Checkout Extensions

Post purchase checkout extensions enable merchants to offer upsells or additional offers after a customer has completed a purchase. This technology allows merchants to maximize their revenue by presenting targeted offers based on the customer's buying behavior. Merchants can choose to display additional products, services, or promotions to increase the average order value.

Web Pixel Extensions

Web pixel extensions are a technology in checkout extensibility that enables merchants to implement custom tracking snippets and event tracking. This allows merchants to track buyer behavior, monitor conversions, and optimize their marketing strategies. By using web pixel extensions, merchants can gather valuable data to make informed business decisions.

Migrating Customizations

Before migrating customizations to the new checkout extensibility, it is essential to conduct a thorough assessment. The assessment involves identifying the current customizations and evaluating their relevance and functionality. This can be done through a visual review of the checkout process, noting any custom elements, banners, or messages. It is also recommended to perform a code review to identify customizations that may be less visible, such as comments, liquid or JavaScript references, or third-party CSS includes.

Once the assessment is complete, a list of existing customizations should be obtained. It is important to re-evaluate each customization and determine if it is necessary to migrate. Outdated or unnecessary customizations may not be worth the technical overhead of migrating.

Feature Mapping

After identifying the customizations to migrate, the next step is to conduct feature mapping. This involves mapping each customization to the appropriate technology in checkout extensibility. The technologies include checkout UI extensions for adding custom UI or content elements, the Branding API for changing the look of the checkout, Shopify functions for customizing back-end business logic, post purchase checkout extensions for displaying offers after a purchase, and web pixel extensions for implementing custom tracking and event tracking. Some customizations may fall into multiple areas and can be combined.

Implementing a Delivery Date Picker

To illustrate the process of implementing a customization using checkout extensibility, let's take an example of a delivery date picker. This feature can be useful for businesses that offer delivery services, event tickets, or rental services. Implementing a delivery date picker involves creating a development store, generating a Shopify app, adding the checkout UI extension, importing pre-built components, implementing the date picker, and using meta fields for storing the selected delivery date.

By following the step-by-step instructions and utilizing the resources provided, developers can build a functional delivery date picker and ensure a smooth and seamless checkout experience for their customers.

Conclusion

Checkout extensibility is a powerful feature offered by Shopify that allows merchants to customize their checkout process. By leveraging technologies such as checkout UI extensions, the Branding API, Shopify functions, post purchase checkout extensions, and web pixel extensions, merchants can enhance the functionality, appearance, and performance of their checkout. Migrating customizations to the new checkout extensibility requires a thorough assessment, feature mapping, and careful implementation. By following the guidelines and using the available resources, developers can create unique and personalized checkout experiences for their clients.

Now it's time to take advantage of the opportunities provided by checkout extensibility and start building customizations that will drive higher conversions and revenue for your business.

Highlights

• Checkout extensibility allows merchants to customize their checkout process.
• Technologies in checkout extensibility include checkout UI extensions, the Branding API, Shopify functions, post purchase checkout extensions, and web pixel extensions.
• Migrating customizations requires a thorough assessment and feature mapping.
• Implementing a delivery date picker involves creating a development store, generating a Shopify app, adding a checkout UI extension, and using meta fields for data storage.
• Checkout extensibility provides opportunities for increased conversion rates and a seamless customer checkout experience.

FAQ

Q: Can I migrate my existing customizations to checkout extensibility? A: Yes, you can migrate your existing customizations to checkout extensibility by conducting a thorough assessment, identifying the customizations, and mapping them to the appropriate technologies.

Q: What are the benefits of using checkout extensibility? A: Using checkout extensibility can result in a faster, higher-converting checkout process. It also offers better integration with Shopify and provides the opportunity to turn customizations into successful public apps.

Q: Are there any limitations or considerations when implementing customizations in checkout extensibility? A: When implementing customizations in checkout extensibility, it is essential to consider performance, compatibility, and user experience. It is also recommended to utilize pre-built UI components provided by Shopify to ensure accessibility and consistency.