Welcome to the world of e-Commerce The world of e-Commerce can be a complex world that can seem very daunting when first considering setting up an online trading company. Two common situations:- –New Company start-up –Existing company expansion Also two common routes :- –Inexpensive – using internal resources –Expensive – using professional services

Using in house resource This is the best solution for new start up businesses and Small to Medium Enterprise (SME) with small annual turnovers. Benefits:- –Low Cost –Low upfront fess –No Fixed Term Minimum Contracts Disadvantages:- –Limited Support –Limited Services –Poor User Interface

Using professional services This is the service that you would use if you wanted to create in order to enhance your online service to maximise growth. Benefits:- –Best User Experience –24/7 Online and Telephone Support – Not Off the shelf package (bespoke for business need) Disadvantages:- –High Costs & ongoing maintenance charge –Lack of control –High Upfront and continuous monthly charges –Penalties for Early Termination of contract

e-Commerce Life Cycle The following Diagram explains the transaction life cycle.

Website and e-Commerce Services To do this by yourself :- Build your own website Choose a payment option Shopping Cart Services To do this Professionally :- Website and Hosting Services Shopping Cart Services Choose Payment Provider Choose IMA Services