Not long ago most businesses were considered modern if they accepted credit cards which they swiped using a manual device. Today companies that want to remain competitive rely on payment gateways like BlueSnap. A payment gateway is a merchant service that quickly authorizes payments for online retailers, e-businesses, bricks and clicks companies, and bricks and mortar businesses. An effective payment platform makes customer checkout simpler and allows buyers to use a variety of payment types. Gateways also provide data that allows merchants to assess their progress.

Payment Gateways Simplify Checkout

One of the reasons that merchants need payment services is the vast number of payment options that are now available. Millions of customers rely on speedy online and mobile checkout as well as POS transactions. A gateway makes accepting these payments simple. It also allows clients to accept invoice payments, subscriptions, and transactions via virtual terminals. They can even set up services that handle the details of payments from marketplace sellers.

Merchants Can Accept Global Payments

Companies also use payment platforms to expand their global reach by accepting payments from customers using their local currencies and credit cards. For example, a U.S. merchant using a gateway service might be able to accept payments made using Argencard (Argentina), China Union Pay, DinaCard (Republic of Serbia), and Hipercard (Brazil). Customers also have the option of using commonly accepted Diners Club, AMEX, and JCB cards. In addition, shoppers may pay with local currencies, eWallets, and ACH. Payment platforms connect to multiple banks around the globe which speeds transactions.

Analytics Provide Critical Information

Merchants choose payment gateways in order to get current, useful information about their businesses. Platforms provide merchants with access to a variety of reports that contain critical information designed to help them optimize their payment processes. Platforms offer a single view that tracks company performance. Dashboards analyze conversion rates, make it simple to reconcile the books, and help business owners identify and eliminate bad transactions.

Merchants who want to compete in today’s markets rely on payment platforms to streamline their processes. A well-designed payment gateway can make checkout simpler for customers and provide them with a wide variety of payment options. Payment gateways also provide convenient data that allows merchants to evaluate their processes.