An online shop, also known as eshop, e-store, internet shop, webstore etc, is a service provided by the seller over the internet, where he can come in direct contact with the customer, thereby eliminating any intermediaries. If an intermediary is present in the process it is called electronic commerce.
The first world wide web server and browser was created in 1990, which opened for commercial use a year later. Online shopping however began in 1994 along with online banking.
Online shopping has been gaining a lot of popularity in the recent years. To avail such a service, one must have a bank account, a debit card, and a computer. At first only the upper class people would avail the service, now it is also being used by the middle class.
Online shopping targets a large number of people, as everyone can take a look at what the online store has to offer just through a consumer. These stores also advertise on television, and just through a call, and a certain procedure, the customer can have the goods or services delivered at his door step. Generally their rates also fall cheaper as there are no intermediaries present in the process.
Customers can have a look at multiple stores online and select a product that interests them the most. An online store generally has a shopping basket system or a shopping cart, where the customer can select multiple items and pay for them collectively at the end.
The payment mode widely preferred is the credit card. However certain other means also are: debit card, cash on delivery, check, gift cards, electronic money etc. Some stores do not accept international credit cards or do not do international transaction, they just operate within the boundaries of the country. Whereas some other stores operate globally and their transactions can take place in any country.
Once the payment is done, the goods and services can be delivered in a number of ways, Download-software, movies, music. Shipping- product shipped to customers address. Post, In-store pick up- passing customers can directly pick up their goods from the nearest store.
It is very important that these online sites are user friendly, with least complexity levels. This makes it easier for more number of customers to access the site, thus creating more potential customers, and goodwill as well. If the site is easy to operate, the customers will share a good word about the site to their family and friends.
Advantages
Convenience-
An online store can be accessed at any time of the day, also payment can be done online 24×7 and the consumer gets what he wants.
Price-
These stores have low prices as they cut down on expenses on intermediaries, and have a large customer base.
Selection-
A wide variety of goods are displayed so that the customer can have just what he wants.
Information and Reviews-
Online shops have reviews of people about the product, making it easier for the customers to select their product. Product information in detail is also available.
Source by Nancy Chin
