#2unit 1introduction to e commerce

Difference between E-commerce and E-business

How e-commerce relates to the broader idea of e-business.

3D Learning World

Interactive Visualizations

Topic Diagrams

E-commerce vs E-business at the firm boundary

E-business is digital enabling of internal firm processes; e-commerce occurs when value crosses firm boundaries.

E-business (inside the firm)

  • Digital enabling of internal transactions and processes
  • Information systems under firm control
  • Inventory control, HR systems, internal ERP
  • No direct exchange of value across boundaries

E-commerce (across firm boundary)

  • Commercial transactions crossing firm boundaries
  • Exchange of value (money) for products/services
  • Online sales to consumers or other firms
  • Generates revenue from outside parties

E-business is the digital enabling of internal firm processes (such as inventory or HR systems) that do not directly involve an exchange of value with outsiders. E-commerce occurs when an exchange of value crosses the firm boundary — for example, when a customer pays for a product online. The two systems blur at the firm boundary, where internal systems link up with customers and suppliers.

Explanation: E-business is the digital enabling of internal firm processes (such as inventory or HR systems) that do not directly involve an exchange of value with outsiders. E-commerce occurs when an exchange of value crosses the firm boundary — for example, when a customer pays for a product online. The two systems blur at the firm boundary, where internal systems link up with customers and suppliers.