E Tail

While interactions in the real world shopping are mainly based on face-to-face activities between consumers and service personnels, interactions in electronic commerce take place mainly through the retailer's Web site. This study investigated the relationship between various characteristics of online shopping and consumer purchase behavior. Results of the online survey with 602 Korean customers of online bookstores indicate that information quality, user interface quality, and security perceptions affect information satisfaction and relational benefit, that, in turn, are significantly related to each consumer's site commitment and actual purchase behavior.

It is well known that online shopping is growing, but recent reports have indicated that e-retailers are failing to deliver. In this paper, the authors consider aspects of shopping and shopping styles, comparing e-shopping with bricks and mortar. First, a small exploratory pilot study comparing Internet vs an exemplar shopping centre, and comparing the centre with an "ideal" centre is reported. In this initial stage, the respondents were selected as the "shoppers of tomorrow" - sixth-form students - more Web-literate than older age groups. Second, the results of a further small exploratory pilot study are reported with slightly more mature shoppers - university students. The qualitative findings from this stage of the research form the basis for our conclusions. Finally, we speculate on the possible future of shopping.
When ready to complete the sale, the customer proceeds to the checkout. At this time, the customer enters personal and financial data through a secure Internet connection. The transaction and financial data automatically are verified at a banking Web site. If the bank approves the transaction, the customer receives an online confirmation notice of the purchase.
Then, the e-retailer processes the order and sends it to the fulfillment center where it is packaged and shipped. The e-retailer... [continues]

Read full essay