The Problem We Were Actually Solving
Our platform was designed to sell digital art to a global audience. However, we were using PayPal as our primary payment gateway, which didn't allow transactions in many countries due to international sanctions. Our sales would surge momentarily, only to plummet hours later when customers found out they couldn't complete their transactions. We would receive emails from frustrated artists and customers, asking why their credit cards weren't being accepted.
What We Tried First (And Why It Failed)
We tried to solve this problem by restricting access to our store for blocked countries. That meant blocking payment methods for those users and providing a vague error message. This not only alienated our customers in restricted countries but also didn't address the root issue. We were essentially saying, 'Hey, we want your business, but not in countries we don't like.'
The Architecture Decision
I proposed that we switch to a payment processor that allowed for transactions in restricted countries, along with our existing gateways. However, that would have added significant complexity to our architecture. Instead, I opted for a simpler solution: integrating a processor that accepted cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum. We also allowed artists to accept bank transfers, Alipay, and other international payment methods. It was a risk, but it gave us the flexibility to serve a broader audience.
What The Numbers Said After
After implementing the new payment methods, our sales in restricted countries skyrocketed. We saw a 300% increase in transactions from Iran alone, with artists from North Korea and Cuba also participating in our platform. We realized that our initial solution was optimized for demos and not for operations.
What I Would Do Differently
If I were to redo this decision, I would have done more research before choosing the payment processor. We could have integrated a processor that accepted cryptocurrencies from the start. Additionally, I would have considered additional payment methods, such as Apple Pay and Google Pay, which are widely accepted in various countries. Our platform's flexibility to accommodate different payment methods has been a game-changer for artists and customers alike.
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