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Ecommerce

Exam code: 7115
Written by: Ashika|Reviewed by: Caroline Carroll|Updated 2 July 2026

The nature of ecommerce

The nature of ecommerce

  • E-commerce is the trade of goods and services over the internet

    • The rise of e-commerce means customers increasingly pay online using payment systems such as Apple Pay and PayPal

Examples of ecommerce

Three smartphones display apps: online banking with balance, online shopping with clothing items, and e-ticketing with a barcode and ticket.
Online banking, shopping and ticketing are examples of ecommerce
  • Businesses can sell goods through their own websites or via selling platforms such as Amazon, Ebay and Etsy

  • Financial institutions, such as banks, can provide their service via mobile apps

    • Customers can manage their bank accounts, transfer money, manage lending and pay bills online

  • E-ticketing facilities provide paper-free access to events and transport

Evaluation of ecommerce

Evaluating the use of ecommerce

  • E-commerce can make life more convenient for customers and is a source of competitive advantage for businesses

    • It also provides the potential for small businesses to reach large audiences

  • However, setting up an webstore or app can be costly

    • Some consumers may also be concerned about security risks of purchasing online

Advantages and disadvantages of ecommerce for businesses and consumers

 

Advantages

Disadvantages

Businesses

  • Websites provide a cheap and direct way to promote products

  • Businesses can easily order supplies and materials online

  • A clear and user-friendly website can increase customer purchases

    • For example, automation can suggest related items

  • Dynamic pricing allows higher profits during busy periods

  • Businesses face global competition, making it easy for customers to switch brands

  • Large warehouses and efficient stock systems are needed to meet demand

  • E-commerce does not work well for personal services like beauty treatments or home repairs

  • The lack of face-to-face contact limits fast and useful customer feedback

Consumers

  • Online competition helps lower prices and allows easy comparison

  • Paying by credit card or debit card is quick and simple

    • For example, services like Apple Pay allow one-click purchases

  • Shopping online is convenient from any place, at any time and on any device

  • Customers have a wider choice from global retailers such as Shein and Temu

  • Poor internet or technical problems can stop customers from buying online

  • Customers in low-income areas may struggle to access products due to poor infrastructure

  • Many people worry about credit card fraud or identity theft

  • Products cannot be tested before buying, so returns are more common