Summary

This book provides an understanding of e-commerce by deconstructing it into its main constituents and explaining how they fit together. The objective is to introduce some consistency to the often contradictory views about e-commerce, bringing together different academic and management theories and frameworks into a coherent whole. It is written with a European perspective with examples that are drawn from around the globe, consistent with the nature of e-commerce.

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This textbook gives an overview of e-commerce, relevant issues and frameworks.

It looks at the foundations on which e-commerce is built - the technology. Managers and students of management must have an understanding of the infrastructure and inextricable linkages between processes and technology in a 21st century business. It is no longer acceptable or good business practice for technology to be the sole responsibility of IT departments.

The book then goes on to examine businesses that have been built on these technology foundations. It explains the concept of the business model, the `dot com′ phenomenon and frameworks that have emerged as a result. It also outlines the legal and ethical implications for an e-business.

It outlines the academic debate about the impact of e-commerce on economics and management thinking. It concludes with a glance to the future, exploring the potential new wave of technology.

This textbook will be essential for undergraduate and post graduate students. It is a user-friendly text with case studies, and learning objectives to guide the student and lecturers. A companion website will accompany the text including cases, student activities, PowerPoint slides, notes and articles in support of the book. It will also give lecturers direct access to the author.

It will provide students with the skills to be able to converse knowledgeably with IT managers and be able to ask the right questions in order to make a decision about IT.