firms which are very frequently visited by customers would usually do this).
virtual hosting services (VHS means that all the facilieties required (such as the necessary hard- and software, security, ...) is provided and maintaned by another firm, for payment, of course. Usually it is a company specialised in providing VHS).
simplified e-commerce (Here you just pay a company specialised in developing e-commerce systems to create a simple site for you. You must already have the necessary hard- and software. The basic functions of a simplified e-commerce system include displaying a product catalogue, allowing users to browse through it and allowing them to buy items from it).
Most of the B2C e-commerce companies use one of these systems. And there are too many who just implement the simplified solution and forget about offering online customer support and help and even keeping the site up-to-date.
A lack of customer support is only one of the reasons why e-commerce is in a crisis now.
Trends for the future
As you can see on the graph the purchase rates are rising steadily. A recent study found out that most e-commerce website owners are generally optimistic. Three-quarters say their online market is expanding, while two-thirds say their ability to attract new customers is improving. Half of those polled say they are also seeing increased loyalty from past customers. So, as the customers get used to e-commerce, it becomes more popular. It may not replace the common way to buy and sell products but for most companies it offers new ways to reach their customers.
E-Commerce
Categories of E-Commerce
Benefits of E-Commerce
lower transaction costs
availability
large quantity of information
providing "up-to-date" information
comparison of prices and products
quickness
Disadvantages of E-Commerce
hard to make yourself "visible"
hard to differ from competition
hard to make people buy something
money
legality
ownership
privacy and security
Products People Buy via Internet
Consumer Spending at European Sites 1997-2002