E-commerce!

I have always thought that e-commerce and e-business had similar meanings, but apparently they stand for different things. To facilitate better understanding, "E-commerce involves digitally enabled commercial transactions between and among organizations and individuals; whereas e-business refer primarily to the digital enablement of transactions and processes within a firm, involving information systems under the control of the firm". Thus, all the online shopping sites that I have either visited or purchased actually belongs to 'e-commerce' category! A case in point of an e-commerce site is Victoria's Secret (VS) and I will go on to identify its seven unique features of e-commerce technology and their significance below:

•  Ubiquitous and Offers Global Reach
  

Victoria's Secret is a well-known American retailer of lingerie, women's wear and beauty products. Consumers can shop their brand via their website "www.VictoriasSecret.com" at any place and at any time. This increases customer convenience and reduces costs. Not only do VS ship domestically in the States, but they also provide secure international shipping services. In addition, one of the brand's marketing strategies was the introduction of Victoria's Secret Direct, whereby the purpose is to provide a sexy, warm and intimate shopping experience to their consumers 24/7 via their catalogues. According to statistics, this marketing strategy reaches more than 390 million people annually and VS's website is one of the most highly profitable and fastest-growing sites.

However, due to certain trade and embargo restrictions, there are around 26 countries that are restricted to all shipments, e.g. Cuba, North Korea, Afghanistan and Iran etc.

• Operates According to Universal Standards

The site operates according to technical media standards.

• Information Richness

All the models' interviews, fashion shows, videos and audio contribute to a more powerful selling environment as it elevates the consumer's shopping experience.