When it comes to choosing an online bookstore provider, what questions should administrators ask?
There are a lot of places to shop online today. Students are very savvy shoppers and look for the best price and value for the dollar, so providers should offer texts at multiple price points. Administrators should ask if it is possible for books to be available throughout the semester, not just at the beginning. Because students typically need books soon after they place an order, service at the provider should be robust and shipping processes as efficient as possible.
Customer service is also a big piece. When students walk into a physical bookstore, it is easy for them to navigate where to go for help. Similarly, online bookstore providers should make it easy to get in touch if there are questions. Other specific inquiries could include:

How do you handle the responsibility of providing course materials to our school’s students?
Can the online bookstore assist with HEOA reporting requirements?
What is your customer service philosophy? Is it 24/7? Is it multi-channel (voice, email, chat)?
Do you offer buyback and/or guaranteed buyback?
How do you intend to promote the online bookstore to faculty and students?

Is a campus less of a college or university without a physical bookstore?
This thought comes up for many administrators because for most campuses, the bookstore has always been central to the course material process. It is key to communicate that you will still be offering the same services of your bookstore and textbook department. In fact, the online bookstore has even greater capacity and capabilities.

Instant Insights /

Utilizing an online bookstore expands service, capacity and capabilities

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