Bret's series on brick-and-mortar retailers and their move online continues with specific planning tips. The first installment, "How Small Brick-and-Mortar Retailers Succeed Online; 4 Keys," offered sound advice on how retailers can compete online.

This next article, published by Practical Ecommerce, lists five tips any retailer should consider before opening their first online store.

I’m convinced by my experience that brick-and-mortar stores have distinct advantages when it comes to selling online. However, selling online has its own requirements. Invest in time and energy to assess your current assets, investigate possible third-party expertise, and focus on one initial online concept. — Bret Williams

Be sure to check back, or sign up for our newsletter below, to read the next issue where he'll discuss different strategies for getting online, from the do-it-yourself to outsourcing, and the pros and cons of each.[newsletter-sign-up-form]