E-commerce

Abstract

Electronic commerce (e-Commerce) is fast becoming a way of life in the twenty-first century. As more and more consumers and organizations resort to electronic means for conducting purchases and facilitating business transactions, it has become vital for academic researchers as well as practitioners to understand its workings, and be able to analyze problems and rectify weaknesses. This is complicated by the fact that the e-Commerce market is global and constantly evolving, with new and innovative business models and products being introduced at a rapid pace. We present an overview of the status of e-Commerce, with particular emphasis on academic research. Specifically, we review the historical background of e-Commerce, discuss theoretical frameworks, and examine e-Commerce models. We also discuss emerging trends as well as pressing issues facing the e-Commerce marketplace.