E-Business

This text seeks to draw together a varied range of conceptual models and frameworks, existing empirical research, statistical and case study material to provide a coherent insight into e-business from a management perspective. It: - defines the nature and scope of e-business technologies and the brief history of their development and implementation, - reviews the environmental drivers facilitating and constraining the application and growth of e-business technologies - evaluates the ways in which e-business technologies can be applied within firms to achieve new business development and process improvements - considers the organisational dimension of e-business implementation within firms, from project management, skills and cultural perspectives - reflects upon the likely nature of future challenges and opportunities of e-business technologies Utilising extensive up to date examples and case studies throughout, such as eBay, Googlewhacking & Skype, this text primarily focuses on the contribution of e-business technologies to the effectiveness and efficiency of for-profit firms, with insights drawn, where relevant, on not-for-profit and public sector organisations. It includes the application of e-business technologies to both large and small firms in both developed and emerging economies. It extends beyond PC-based web channels to mobile and other platforms, including store-based kiosks and emerging, pervasive technologies, such as digital TV, SMS, m-commerce, PDAs and other location-based services.