What is e-Business?
In 1997, IBM contracted with Ogilvy & Mather to create an extensive advertising campaign to complement a 1996 companywide initiative called "E-Business". The goal of the initiative was to explain the application of Internet technologies in business, which included highlighting the advantages of intranets, extranets, and Internet communication. Despite early criticism of the effort from a variety of sources, the campaign was so successful that the term, e-business, is now a common Internet idiom.
While the definition of the term hasn't changed much from its initial inception, the tools and technology certainly have evolved. In fact, as technology continues to progress, the distinction between "traditional" and "e-business" operations will eventually fade. E-Business applications have evolved from HTML and CGI implementations to extremely versatile Rich Internet Applications accomplished in a vast selection of programming languages.
Internally, many businesses now rely on e-business technologies for commonplace activities, such as data transfer, document storage and management, and training. Today, e-business involves processes spanning the entire chain of business operations, which includes processing orders, purchasing and product logistics, customer service and support, and business to business relationship management. E-business can be conducted via websites, directly over the Internet, through corporate intranets and extranets, or even a combination of the above.
A manager or business owner knows their company, and industry, better than anyone. However, it is extremely difficult and impractical for business managers to keep up-to-date with the technology that is available. An e-business consultant can provide guidance and insight into available solutions, and ultimately, a partnership must be forged in order to develop successful solutions to business processes and challenges.
If you would like more information on how a partnership between our two companies could benefit you, please contact us.