What is the Role of E-Commerce in the Era of Globalization? Case Study
Key Learning Outcomes
By the end of the case, students should be able to:
- Understand what e-commerce is and its importance for the development of the society
- Understand the various factors that have contributed to the growth and development of e-commerce business
- Apply the techniques used by e-commerce businesses to real-life organizations
1.0 INTRODUCTION
E-commerce is the process of purchasing and selling goods and services through the Internet. Businesses that operate online, either fully or partially, are known as e-commerce businesses. They provide various types of products, services, or platforms to customers or other businesses. E-commerce has experienced rapid growth in the past few decades, driven by the emergence of new technologies, such as mobile devices, social media, cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and blockchain.
E-commerce has become a vital aspect of the global economy because it enables businesses to reach customers across borders, reduce costs, increase efficiency, and enhance customer satisfaction. E-commerce also facilitates the exchange of information, ideas, and innovations, which can foster collaboration, creativity, and competitiveness.
The benefits of e-commerce are not only limited to the business sector but also extend to society and the environment. E-commerce can help reduce the environmental impact of transportation, promote social inclusion and empowerment, and support the development of digital skills and literacy.
The role of e-commerce in the era of globalization is complex and dynamic. On one hand, e-commerce can promote globalization by expanding the market potential, reducing trade barriers, and increasing the flow of goods, services, and capital. E-commerce can also enable small and medium enterprises to access global markets, overcome geographical constraints, and compete with larger firms. Moreover, e-commerce can empower consumers by offering them more choices, lower prices, and better quality.
On the other hand, e-commerce can also pose challenges and risks for globalization. For instance, e-commerce can create digital divides between countries and regions that have different levels of internet access, infrastructure, and skills. E-commerce can also exacerbate inequalities and vulnerabilities among businesses and consumers, as some may lack the resources, capabilities, or protection to participate in or benefit from e-commerce. Furthermore, e-commerce can raise ethical, legal, and social issues related to data privacy, security, taxation, regulation, and governance.
E-commerce is a dynamic and complex aspect that shapes and is shaped by the globalized world. E-commerce can have positive or negative effects on the global economy, society, environment, and culture, depending on how it is designed, implemented, and regulated.