.One of the biggest forces changing business is the Internet. Technology companies such as Intel and Cisco were among the fi rst to seize the Internet to overhaul their operations. Intel deployed Web-based automation to liberate its 200 salesclerks from tedious order-entry positions. Instead, salesclerks concentrate on customer relationship management functions such as analyzing sales trends and pampering customers. Cisco handles 75 percent of its sales online, and 45 percent of online orders never touch employees’ hands. This type of Internet-based ordering has helped Cisco hike productivity by 20 percent over the past two years.

E-business is the conducting of business on the Internet, not only buying and selling, but also serving customers and collaborating with business partners. Organizations realize that putting up simple Web sites for customers, employees, and partners does not create an e-business. E-business Web sites must create a buzz, much as Amazon has done in the bookselling industry. E-business Web sites must be innovative, add value, and provide useful information. In short, the site must build a sense of community and collaboration, eventually becoming the port of entry for business. Understanding e-business begins with understanding:

• Disruptive technology.
• Evolution of the Internet.
• Accessing Internet information.
• Providing Internet information.