The development of the web and the Internet has brought significant opportunity to both businesses and consumers. Businesses can now remain "open" 24/7 in a larger market without the additional expense required of a retail location. Businesses have a greater ability to source product in a competitive environment thus reducing costs, reduce the time to order and receive product, and have the ability to expand business partnerships that can become part of their enhanced supply chain. All of this can add to customer satisfaction and increased profits for the business.
E-Business allows customers the ability to shop online at any time they have the desire or time, or even browse product without a sales person leaning over their shoulder. They can take their time, and search many different businesses and products without ever leaving the comfort of their home. This increases customer knowledge and satisfaction, and this ease of e-business creates stronger competition can lead to reduced costs for the customer.
In the e-business environment, there is both Business-to-Business (B2B) and Business-to-Customer (B2C) commerce. In order to bring product to the customer, and for the customer to purchase the product, there must be a supply chain in place. The supply chain does everything from sourcing raw materials to presenting the finished product online. Both B2B and B2C have their own supply chain and each varies significantly. In this paper, I will define both B2B and B2C and will also show how the B2B supply chain varies greatly from the B2C supply chain. An efficient and effective supply chain is necessary for the business to continue producing and selling product and is critical ...