E-commerce is the activity of electronically buying or selling of products on online services or over the Internet. Electronic commerce draws on technologies such as mobile commerce, electronic funds transfer, supply chain management, Internet marketing, online transaction processing, electronic data interchange (EDI), inventory management systems, and automated data collection systems. It also encompasses the sale of digital products such as music, movies, and digital books. E-commerce businesses often deal with hundreds or even thousands of other businesses, either as customers or suppliers. Electronic commerce typically uses the World Wide Web at least at some point in the transaction’s lifecycle, although it can encompass a wider range of technologies such as e-mail, mobile devices, social media, and telephones as well. Modern electronic commerce typically uses the World Wide Web for at least one part of the transaction’s life cycle, although it may also use other technologies such as e-mail.
E-Commerce benefits
- Increased Reach: One of the biggest benefits of e–commerce is that it provides businesses with a platform to reach a wider audience. The internet has no boundaries, which means that a business can increase its presence to consumers anywhere in the world.
- Greater convenience: E–commerce provides customers with greater convenience when it comes to shopping online. Customers can shop from anywhere and anytime, making it easier for them to find what they are looking for.
- Cost savings: E–commerce can help businesses save on costs associated with running a retail store, such as rent and personnel costs. This can help businesses save money and allocate resources to other areas of their operations.
- Automation: E–commerce enables businesses to automate many processes, such as order fulfillment, accounting, and inventory management. Automation can help businesses save time and money while increasing operational efficiency.
- Improved customer service: E–commerce enables businesses to provide customers with a better shopping experience. Businesses can respond quickly to customer inquiries and provide personalized customer service.