摘要：Computer technologies have drastically changed society and business in recent years. In the 1980s and 1990s, microcomputers emerged as a new technology that promised to change every aspect of our lives. As computer technology has advanced, the Internet has become a dominant aspect of computer use by individuals and businesses worldwide. Individuals use the Internet for different reasons, including social interaction, obtaining information, and purchasing goods and services. Over 54 percent of United States households now have access to the Internet (Day, Janus, and Davis 2005). This has increased from around 50 percent in 2001, 41 percent in 2000, and 26 percent in 1998 (Day, Janus, and Davis 2005). Currently, 78 percent of Internet users to obtain information on products or services from the Internet and more than 54 percent purchased products or services online in 2003 (Day, Janus, and Davis 2005). As Internet technology has advanced, businesses have adopted it as a sales and marketing medium. The Internet can be used by businesses to reduce transaction costs associated with conducting business, such as providing information about products and services. In addition, companies can use the worldwide web to offer a wider variety of products to a larger audience at lower prices compared to products found in a physical setting (Couclelis 2004).
