Questions unit 1
1. What are some of the unique features of e-commerce technology?
E-commerce technology is distinguished by several unique features that set it apart
from traditional commerce. It provides ubiquity, allowing transactions to occur
anytime and anywhere through the internet, and offers global reach, giving businesses
access to customers across national borders. Unlike traditional systems, e-commerce
relies on universal standards that reduce costs and simplify operations. It also supports
richness through multimedia communication and fosters interactivity by enabling
real-time, two-way engagement between firms and consumers. Furthermore, e-
commerce increases information density, making vast amounts of data easily
accessible and reducing information asymmetry. Another key feature is
personalization and customization, as businesses can tailor products, services, and
marketing to individual preferences. Finally, e-commerce integrates social
technologies that encourage user-generated content, reviews, and community building.
Together, these features create a powerful, dynamic environment that enhances
efficiency, engagement, and global connectivity.
2: What are some of the factors driving the growth of social e-commerce?
The growth of social e-commerce is driven by several key factors. The widespread
use of social media provides businesses direct access to billions of users, while
influencer marketing and user-generated content enhance trust and credibility.
Platforms increasingly integrate seamless shopping features, such as in-app checkout
and livestream shopping, making the buying process more convenient. At the same
time, mobile-first behavior and advanced personalization through data and AI allow
tailored product recommendations. Finally, social engagement, community interaction,
and the convenience of trusted platforms make shopping more interactive and
appealing, fueling the rapid rise of social commerce worldwide.
3:Why is it likely that the Internet and e-commerce are entering a period of
closer regulatory oversight?
It is likely that the Internet and e-commerce are entering a period of closer regulatory
oversight because of their rapid growth, increasing influence on economies, and
potential risks. Issues such as consumer protection, data privacy, cybersecurity, unfair
competition, misinformation, and the dominance of large tech platforms have raised
concerns among governments and regulators. As online transactions expand globally,
ensuring fair practices, tax compliance, and safe digital environments becomes more
critical. Therefore, regulators are moving toward stricter policies to balance
innovation with accountability, protect users, and maintain trust in the digital
marketplace.
4: How does the ubiquity of e-commerce impact consumers?
The ubiquity of e-commerce greatly impacts consumers by providing access to goods
and services anytime and anywhere, removing the limitations of physical store hours
and locations. This convenience allows shoppers to make purchases from home, at
work, or while traveling, saving time and effort. It also enables consumers to compare
prices, read reviews, and access a wider variety of products than traditional retail can
offer. As a result, ubiquity reduces transaction costs, increases consumer choice, and
empowers individuals with greater flexibility and control over their shopping
experiences.
5: What impact does the increased interactivity provided by e-commerce
technologies have on business?
The increased interactivity provided by e-commerce technologies has a significant
impact on businesses. It allows companies to communicate directly with customers in
real time, gather immediate feedback, and better understand consumer preferences.
Interactive features, such as live chats, product demos, and personalized
recommendations, enhance customer engagement and build stronger relationships.
This engagement can improve customer satisfaction, loyalty, and conversion rates,
while also providing valuable data for marketing and product development. Overall,
interactivity helps businesses respond quickly to market demands and create a more
customer-centric approach, giving them a competitive advantage.
6. What difficulties are presented in trying to measure the number of web pages
in
existence?
The Internet is highly dynamic: new pages are created while old pages are updated or
deleted.
Many pages are not publicly accessible, such as those behind passwords, paywalls, or
private networks.
Duplicate or automatically generated content can distort counts.
Different search engines index the web differently, and there is no single
comprehensive source.
7. Why is the mobile platform not just a hardware phenomenon?
The mobile platform is not just a hardware phenomenon because it encompasses
software, services, and ecosystems that extend beyond the physical device. Mobile
operating systems, apps, cloud services, and connectivity enable a wide range of
functions, including communication, commerce, entertainment, and productivity.
These platforms create a digital environment where users can interact, share data, and
access services anytime and anywhere. Therefore, the value of mobile platforms
comes not only from the hardware itself but also from the integrated software,
services, and user experiences that the platform supports.
8. What is conversational commerce and how does it relate to m-commerce?
Definition: Conversational commerce is the use of messaging apps, chatbots, and
voice assistants to facilitate shopping and customer interactions.
Function: It allows consumers to communicate with businesses in real time, ask
questions, get personalized recommendations, and make purchases within the
conversation.
Relation to m-commerce: Most conversational commerce happens on mobile devices,
linking it closely to mobile commerce (m-commerce).
Benefit: By combining mobile convenience with interactive conversations, businesses
can offer a more personalized and seamless shopping experience.
9. Describe the three different stages in the evolution of e-commerce?
E-commerce 1.0 – Basic Online Presence : Informational websites with limited
transactions.
E-commerce 2.0 – Interactive & Transactional : Shopping carts, secure payments,
personalized marketing, and user engagement.
E-commerce 3.0 – Social, Mobile & Data-Driven : Mobile shopping, social media
integration, AI personalization, and conversational commerce for a seamless
experience.
