Since e-commerce was introduced its popularity has increased due to its convenience. Today e-commerce has become a prominent trading approach for organisations and businesses alike and has made a considerable impact on society, and the way in which business is carried out on a global scale. The key to the success of e-commerce is the fact that it is accessible due to the internet being widely available. Creating an online business is cost effective and requires less man power that a physical high street shop; therefore increasingly more competitive. The introduction of e-commerce has brought with it many positive effects as well as risks that pose a negative effect for both consumers and businesses. …show more content…
Customers need to be reassured that their identity and payment information will not be compromised. Unsecure websites pose a risk of loss to the customer and business; in addition to this it may also damage the reputation of the company. There is always an imminent threat from hackers, who actively look for opportunities to attack e-commerce sites and payment gateways, resulting in personal and commercial loss.
Greater Choice
Online shopping retailers provide consumers with a wider range of products that are not ordinarily available in a physical store. Having the choice to shop online uncovers a vast range of products that you would not ordinarily find shopping on foot. Implications of dealing with online customers
Dealing with online customers is different to dealing with face to face customers in a physical shop. Staff will need adequate training to ensure that they are able to support/deal with customers online, and in a fast and efficient way. New e-commerce businesses will also need to ensure that staff are trained and proficient in using any new communications software. 24/7
Online shopping sites are available constantly 24/7 (providing there are no technical faults). This advantage means consumers are able to shop at a time convenient to them. This can increase sales and by increasing the number of orders they receive. Direct Communication with …show more content…
The popularity of shopping online in the privacy of your own home has impacted largely on bricks and mortar businesses; forcing them to create an e-commerce division. Some businesses have also been forced to close or move to e-commerce entirely. An example of this is “Littlewoods” who were a large high street retailer, but from 2000 struggled to meet competition from the likes of “Matalan” and “TK Maxx”. Their Stores closed in April 2005 and were rebranded under the name “The Littlewoods Shop Direct Group” and now trade entirely online under the domain name “www.littlewoods.com”. It has now become one of the UKs leading online traders to date, offering over 40,000 products and is the third largest clothing retailer in the UK. In conclusion e-commerce has transformed retail and the way our economy works, and continues to influence how businesses sell and market their products, and the way consumers purchase their