Cross-border e-commerce data analysis: from data collection to competitor intelligence

In the field of cross-border e-commerce, data analysis has become an important means to reveal changing trends. To obtain accurate results, data volume is critical—the larger the sample, the more precise the results. Therefore, it is recommended to collect at least 6 months of data to better predict future trends. In this process, the method and content of data collection are particularly critical.

Principles and Practices of Data Collection

Data collection needs to follow the principles of “full quantity rather than sampling” and “multi-dimensional rather than single-dimensional”. This means not only covering all available information as much as possible, but also recording relevant information in detail from multiple perspectives (when, where, who, why, what, how, etc.) to facilitate subsequent in-depth analysis.

Specifically, when collecting data, companies should:

• Convert specific needs into detailed requirements;
• Clear the responsible person, time, place and collection method;
• Make sure the record sheet is easy to use;
• Prevent data from being lost or tampered with.

The importance of competitor data and how to obtain it

For cross-border e-commerce sellers, it is equally important to understand the situation of competitors. This not only helps to develop more effective market strategies, but also helps companies discover their own strengths and weaknesses. For this purpose, it is recommended to create a dedicated competitor database. The database should include data on media, factories, organizations, operations, marketing, etc., and access permissions should be set based on the sensitivity of the information.

In actual operation, competitor data can be obtained through two channels: online and offline. Online channels are relatively convenient, including but not limited to viewing annual reports, searching news reports, analyzing job advertisements, etc.; while offline channels involve purchasing industry reports, participating in forum exchanges, on-site inspections, etc.

Application of Porter’s Competitiveness Analysis Model

Porter’s competitiveness analysis model is a classic framework proposed by Harvard Business School professor Michael Porter. It divides competitiveness into five forces: the bargaining power of suppliers, the bargaining power of buyers, and potential competitors. The ability to enter, the substitutability of substitutes and the existing competitiveness of competitors within the industry. By using this model, companies can not only evaluate the competitive situation of the entire industry, but also conduct comparative analysis of specific competitors.

In the traditional retail industry, suppliers are usually in a weak position, while consumers have strong bargaining power. In addition, although the threat of new entrants is low, e-commerce as an emerging channel is gradually becoming the main alternative to traditional physical stores.

To sum up, both internal operational data and external competitor intelligence are indispensable strategic resources for cross-border e-commerce companies. Only by collecting and analyzing this information through scientific and reasonable methods can we occupy a favorable position in the fierce market competition.