The digital commerce space is currently dominated by complex platforms requiring technical expertise, leaving many small businesses and low-tech individuals unable to participate. One way to bridge this gap could be through a text message-based commerce system that allows buying, selling, and payments entirely via SMS or popular messaging apps like WhatsApp.

How It Would Work

Businesses could list products by texting descriptions and prices to the platform. Customers could browse this catalog by sending simple commands like "MENU" or "LIST SHOES". To place an order, a customer might text "ORDER 3 COFFEE" to a cafe's number. The platform would then handle the entire transaction flow:

• Confirming item availability
• Calculating totals including tax
• Processing payments through linked accounts
• Sending order confirmations to both parties

For businesses, the system could automatically track inventory and sales without requiring any apps or websites. Payments could initially work through existing mobile money services in developing markets before integrating more advanced options.

Who Would Benefit Most

This approach particularly helps three groups:

1. Small merchants like street vendors who currently rely on cash transactions
2. Older or less tech-savvy customers who find apps intimidating
3. Rural communities with limited internet access but cellular coverage

Making It Happen

A simple version could begin with just SMS ordering and cash payments. After proving the concept, additional features could include:

• Integration with WhatsApp and other messaging platforms
• Digital payment processing
• Basic inventory management tools

The system might monetize through small transaction fees or premium features like analytics for higher-volume sellers. Compared to existing solutions like WhatsApp Business, this would offer more structured commerce features while maintaining simplicity where platforms like Shopify require technical setup.