Introduction to E-
commerce
E-commerce, or electronic commerce, refers to the buying and selling of
goods and services over the internet. It has transformed the way businesses
and consumers interact, offering a convenient and efficient way to conduct
transactions from the comfort of one's home or office. This introduction will
provide an overview of the key components, activities, and challenges involved
in e-commerce, as well as the roles and responsibilities of an e-commerce
team lead.
UB by Ummul Baneen
Supply Chain Components
Suppliers Logistics Customers
The businesses or individuals who The process of managing the movement, The individuals or businesses who
provide the products or services that are storage, and delivery of goods from the purchase the products or services
sold through the e-commerce platform. supplier to the customer. offered through the e-commerce
platform.
E-commerce Classification
1 Business-to-Consumer (B2C) 2 Business-to-Business (B2B)
E-commerce transactions between businesses and E-commerce transactions between businesses, such as a
individual consumers, such as an online retail store. manufacturer selling to a wholesaler.
3 Consumer-to-Consumer (C2C) 4 Mobile Commerce (M-Commerce)
E-commerce transactions between individual consumers, E-commerce transactions conducted using mobile
such as an online marketplace for secondhand goods. devices, such as smartphones or tablets.
Key E-commerce Activities
Online Presence Digital Marketing
Establishing a website or online Promoting the e-commerce
store to showcase and sell business through various online
products or services. channels, such as search engine
optimization, social media, and
email marketing.
Order Processing Customer Service
Managing the order fulfillment Providing support and
process, from receiving the order assistance to customers
to delivering the product to the throughout the entire shopping
customer. experience, from product
selection to post-purchase
inquiries.
Roles and Responsibilities of
a Team Lead
1 Strategic Planning
Developing and implementing a strategic vision for the e-
commerce business, including setting goals, identifying
growth opportunities, and aligning the team's efforts.
2 Team Management
Effectively leading and motivating a cross-functional team of
e-commerce professionals, such as web developers, digital
marketers, and customer service representatives.
3 Process Optimization
Continuously improving the efficiency and effectiveness of the
e-commerce operations, including order processing, inventory
management, and customer experience.
Challenges Facing E-
commerce Supply Chains
Inventory Management Logistics and Delivery
Ensuring the right products are Coordinating the efficient and timely
available at the right time to meet transportation and delivery of
customer demand while minimizing products to customers, often across
excess inventory. multiple locations.
Data Integration Customer Experience
Integrating data from various Ensuring a seamless and
systems, such as inventory, sales, satisfactory customer experience
and customer information, to provide throughout the entire shopping and
a cohesive view of the e-commerce fulfillment process.
operation.
Strategies for Effective E-
commerce Supply Chain
Management
Demand Forecasting
Utilize predictive analytics and historical data to accurately
1
forecast customer demand and adjust inventory and
production accordingly.
Supplier Collaboration
2 Foster strong partnerships with suppliers to improve visibility,
responsiveness, and flexibility in the supply chain.
Automation and Digitization
Leverage technologies like AI, robotics, and blockchain to
3
automate and digitize supply chain processes, reducing manual
errors and increasing efficiency.
Omnichannel Integration
4 Seamlessly integrate online and offline sales channels to
provide a unified and consistent customer experience.
Conclusion and Key Takeaways
E-commerce has revolutionized the way businesses and consumers interact, offering unprecedented convenience, efficiency, and
personalization. By understanding the key components, activities, and challenges of e-commerce, as well as the roles and
responsibilities of an e-commerce team lead, businesses can optimize their supply chains, enhance the customer experience, and drive
sustainable growth in the ever-evolving digital landscape.
