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  hypothesis  
 

what is online shopping?

 

the advent of e-commerce

 

predictions for online shopping

what is online shopping?

Online shopping is a method for consumers to buy products and services on the Internet. Through their websites, e-businesses create an atmosphere similar to an in-store experience. Consumers place products into their virtual shopping cart, checkout, confirm their order, logout, and wait for their purchases to arrive. E-commerce occurs between businesses and businesses (B2B) and businesses and consumers (B2C).

the advent of e-commerce

Businesses realized that the easiest way to increase sales and widen their market base was through the internet. During 1990's dotcom boom, many businesses brought their products and services to a larger number of households and the invidiual consumer via the Internet. In 1994, few companies were at the forefront of online shopping. The companies included Pizza Hut, who offerred online ordering, and Virtual Florist, an online flower delivery service. From there, giants such as amazon.com and ebay.com were founded in 1996. Even through the dotcom bubble, online businesses have continued to grow, as they gain consumer popularity and confidence.

future predictions for online shopping

Based on the upward trend, e-commerce will continue to grow in the future. As long as businesses maintain consumer satisfaction, buyers will continue to make purchases online. However, businesses need to develop marketing strategies to attract new buyers or convince prospective buyers of the benefitis of online shopping. One way is to to simulate an in-store experience as much as possible. The websites should offer detailed descriptions and 360 degree views of products. In addition, businesses must personally interact with the consumer through the Internet.

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