This paper tries to bring to light the meaning and types of ecommerce and then gives a brief overview of how ecommerce has evolved over time. An attempt has also been made to highlight how successful implementation of ecommerce models could impact the businesses and economies of developing countries as well as the various obstacles that hinder effective implementation and adoption of ecommerce in these countries.
Table of Contents
1.0 Introduction
2.0 Electronic Commerce Defined
3.0 An Account of Ecommerce Evolution
4.0 Types of E-commerce
4.1 (B2B) Business-to-Business
4.2 (C2C) Consumer-to-Consumer
4.3 B2C (Business-to-Consumer)
4.4 C2B (Consumer-to-Business)
5.0 Potential Impacts Of E-commerce In Developing Nations
6.0 Impediments to Ecommerce Adoption In Developing Countries
6.1 Lack of Required Skills
6.2 Legal and Regulatory Framework
6.2.1 Taxation
6.2.2 Immigration Laws
6.2.3 Intellectual Property Issues
6.2.4 Legal Validity Of Electronic Transactions
6.2.5 Licensing And Contracting Of Digital Information Products
6.3 Infrastructural Barriers
6.4 Political Barriers
6.5 Financial Challenges
6.6 Social/Cultural Impediments
6.7 Owner/Manager Characteristics
Conclusion
Objectives and Themes
The primary objective of this work is to examine the various challenges and impediments that hinder the widespread and rapid adoption of electronic commerce in developing countries, despite the potential benefits it offers for economic growth and business transformation.
- The evolution and definition of modern electronic commerce models.
- Categorization of e-commerce into B2B, C2C, B2C, and C2B frameworks.
- Positive economic impacts, including cost reduction, global market access, and operational efficiency.
- Analysis of structural, legal, and socio-cultural barriers to adoption.
- Strategic recommendations for fostering e-commerce growth in underdeveloped regions.
Excerpt from the book
6.0 Impediments to Ecommerce Adoption In Developing Countries
6.1 Lack of Required Skills
In their survey on ecommerce adoption in Sri Lanka by small firms, Kapurubandara and Lawson (2006) singled out inadequate technical skills among employees as one of the chief impediments to adoption of ecommerce applications. Majority of companies do not invest enough resources in equipping employees with adequate technical skills necessary in the use of computers, internet and related technologies.
6.2 Legal and Regulatory Framework
There are a number of legal and regulatory factors that prevent ecommerce adoption in developing countries:
6.2.1 Taxation
Developing countries have tax regimes which make computer and related equipment and software expensive. For example, re-introduction of VAT on this equipment in Kenya has impacted negatively on the growth of the information and communication technology (ICT) sector (Omwansa, 2014). This has resulted in increased prices of ICT equipment and software. Since ecommerce is dependent on ICT equipment and software, its development has slowed down especially in rural areas.
Summary of Chapters
1.0 Introduction: This chapter provides an overview of the shift towards an internet-based global society and introduces the research goal of identifying barriers to e-commerce adoption in developing nations.
2.0 Electronic Commerce Defined: This section defines e-commerce through various academic lenses, including business processes, services, education, and social collaboration.
3.0 An Account of Ecommerce Evolution: This chapter traces the historical development of e-commerce from electronic funds transfer (EFT) in the 1970s to the rise of the commercial internet.
4.0 Types of E-commerce: This section details the four main business models: B2B, C2C, B2C, and C2B.
5.0 Potential Impacts Of E-commerce In Developing Nations: This chapter highlights how e-commerce can reduce operational costs, increase sales, and enable small businesses to compete globally.
6.0 Impediments to Ecommerce Adoption In Developing Countries: This comprehensive chapter analyzes the major obstacles including technical skill gaps, legal hurdles, infrastructural deficits, and cultural factors.
Conclusion: The final section summarizes the transformative potential of e-commerce and reinforces the need for structural reforms to unlock its benefits in developing countries.
Keywords
Electronic Commerce, Developing Nations, Internet Adoption, B2B, C2C, B2C, C2B, Digital Economy, Infrastructural Barriers, Legal Framework, ICT Sector, E-commerce Adoption, Globalization, Technological Skills, Online Payment Systems.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the core focus of this research paper?
The paper primarily explores the challenges and impediments that hinder the widespread adoption of electronic commerce in developing countries despite its known economic benefits.
What are the primary themes discussed in the study?
The themes include the definition and evolution of e-commerce, various business models (B2B, C2C, etc.), the positive impacts on national economies, and the diverse barriers such as infrastructure and policy.
What is the central research question?
The work seeks to understand why developing countries lag behind in e-commerce adoption and what specific factors prevent them from leveraging this technology for business growth.
Which scientific methodology is employed?
The paper utilizes a literature-based review and secondary analysis of surveys and policy reports from various developing regions, such as Kenya, Tanzania, and Sri Lanka.
What topics are covered in the main section of the document?
The main section covers the conceptual background, the categorization of e-commerce types, potential socio-economic benefits, and an in-depth analysis of legal, financial, and infrastructural obstacles.
Which keywords define this work?
Key terms include electronic commerce, developing nations, e-commerce adoption, digital infrastructure, and socio-economic barriers.
How do immigration laws impact e-commerce development according to the author?
The author argues that strict immigration laws hinder the recruitment of foreign IT professionals, which is necessary when local expertise in software engineering or database management is insufficient.
What role does the 'owner/manager' characteristic play in e-commerce adoption?
The research notes that the decision-making process of small business owners is central; if they lack awareness of technology or are not assertive, the adoption of e-commerce in their organizations is significantly delayed.
Why is the lack of electronic payment systems highlighted as a significant issue?
The paper identifies the lack of secure, readily available electronic payment systems as a major bottleneck, forcing reliance on cash and hindering transactions over the internet.
- Arbeit zitieren
- Mr. Daniel Kinyanjui (Autor:in), 2017, Potential Impacts and Impediments of Electronic Commerce in Developing Nations, München, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/366969
