E-commerce

Definition

E-commerce, or electronic commerce, refers to the buying and selling of goods and services over the internet. This digital marketplace has transformed traditional retail by enabling businesses to reach a global audience, streamline transactions, and provide convenience for consumers. E-commerce encompasses various activities, including online shopping, electronic payments, and online auctions, fundamentally altering how people engage in commerce.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. E-commerce saw a massive growth surge in the 1990s with the advent of the World Wide Web, revolutionizing how consumers shop.
2. Mobile commerce (m-commerce) has emerged as a significant segment of e-commerce, driven by the widespread use of smartphones and apps for shopping.
3. E-commerce allows businesses to gather data on customer preferences and behavior, enabling personalized marketing strategies.
4. The rise of e-commerce has led to the decline of brick-and-mortar stores as consumers increasingly prefer the convenience of online shopping.
5. E-commerce platforms often integrate social media to enhance visibility and customer engagement through targeted advertising.

Review Questions

• How has e-commerce changed consumer behavior in recent years?
  • E-commerce has significantly changed consumer behavior by providing greater convenience, accessibility, and variety in shopping options. Consumers can now shop from anywhere at any time, leading to increased impulse buying and a preference for online deals. Additionally, the ability to compare prices and read reviews has empowered consumers to make more informed purchasing decisions.
• Discuss the impact of digital payment systems on the growth of e-commerce.
  • Digital payment systems have played a crucial role in the growth of e-commerce by providing secure, fast, and convenient transaction methods. These systems reduce friction in the buying process, encouraging more consumers to shop online without concerns about safety. The integration of various payment options also caters to diverse consumer preferences, making it easier for businesses to serve a global market.
• Evaluate the implications of e-commerce on traditional retail businesses and their adaptation strategies.
  • The rise of e-commerce has posed significant challenges for traditional retail businesses, leading many to adapt by embracing omnichannel strategies that combine online and offline experiences. To stay competitive, retailers have invested in their own e-commerce platforms, improved inventory management, and enhanced customer service. Some have even shifted focus to providing unique in-store experiences that cannot be replicated online, demonstrating a need for innovation to coexist with the growing digital marketplace.

Related terms

Online Retail: The sale of goods and services directly to consumers through online platforms or websites.

Digital Payment Systems: Technologies that facilitate cashless transactions over the internet, including credit cards, PayPal, and cryptocurrencies.

Supply Chain Management: The management of the flow of goods and services from the point of origin to the end consumer, enhanced by digital technologies in e-commerce.