What is e-business?

Summary

In a comprehensive introduction to e-business, Dr. Stella Tomasi differentiates between e-business and e-commerce, explaining that e-business encompasses not only online transactions but also various business processes conducted over secure internal networks and the public internet. Key processes highlighted include inbound and outbound logistics, manufacturing, marketing, sales, and customer service, all of which leverage technology for effective collaboration with partners and suppliers. Dr. Tomasi encourages students to explore further in the e-business and technology management department to deepen their understanding of this vital field.

Takeaways

• 😀 Dr. Stella Tomasi teaches an e-business course in the College of Business and Economics.
• 📊 E-business and e-commerce are often confused, but they have distinct meanings.
• 🛒 E-commerce focuses on online buying and selling of products and services.
• 🌐 E-business encompasses e-commerce and involves conducting business processes over networks.
• 🔒 Internal networks are preferred for their security compared to the public internet.
• 🤝 External networks, like the internet, facilitate collaboration with partners and suppliers.
• 📈 Key business processes in a value chain include inbound logistics, outbound logistics, manufacturing and operations, marketing and sales, and customer service.
• 🛠️ Technology is essential for managing relationships with partners, suppliers, and customers in e-business.
• 🏢 Students are encouraged to visit the EBTM department for more insights into e-business.
• 📚 Understanding the differences between e-business and e-commerce is crucial for effective business strategy.

Q & A

What is the primary difference between e-business and e-commerce?

E-commerce specifically focuses on the buying and selling of products and services online, while e-business encompasses e-commerce as well as the execution of business processes over networks.

What are some examples of business processes included in e-business?

Examples of business processes in e-business include inbound logistics, outbound logistics, manufacturing and operations, marketing and sales, and customer service.

Why do organizations prefer internal networks over external networks?

Organizations prefer internal networks because they are more secure than external networks, such as the internet, which is public.

What types of networks can be used for e-business?

E-business can utilize both internal networks for secure operations and external networks like the internet for collaborating with partners and suppliers.

How does technology play a role in e-business?

Technology facilitates the execution of various business processes in the value chain, allowing organizations to interact effectively with partners, suppliers, and customers.

What is the significance of the value chain in e-business?

The value chain in e-business signifies the various activities and processes that add value to products or services, enabling efficient operations across different business functions.

What is the role of the EBTM department?

The EBTM (e-business and technology management) department provides education and resources to learn more about e-business and its applications.

Can e-business exist without e-commerce?

Yes, e-business can exist without e-commerce as it includes broader business processes beyond just buying and selling online.

What are primary activities that can be conducted over a network in e-business?

Primary activities in e-business that can be conducted over a network include logistics, manufacturing, marketing, sales, and customer service.

What might someone learn by visiting the EBTM department?

By visiting the EBTM department, someone can learn more about e-business concepts, practices, and how to effectively implement technology in business operations.