A framework for developing a co-design environment for e-business applications

Abstract

The Internet has presented the business world with an unprecedented opportunity in terms of reaching their customers. It has also given rise to new business models and allows firms to engage in e-business. Customers now can browse from one e-store to another and purchase the products that they need right from the comfort of their homes. However, current e-business systems are often criticized based on the fact that it is impersonal and does not satisfy the social needs of its customers such as interactions, collaborations, socialization and networking. As such efforts must be made to give these particular experiences to the customers. Based on the examination of the literature, it is realized that this can be achieved by using two emerging concepts. The first is the concept of value co-creation and the other is via the use of virtual worlds. Using the context of the local wood based products industry, the objective of this paper is to present a conceptual framework for designing a virtual world that will serve as an experience environment that incorporates value co-creation opportunities. © 2010 Springer-Verlag.