Chapter 9: Enhancing a Web Server with E-Commerce Application Development

“Modesty: the gentle art of enhancing your charm by pretending not to be aware of it.”

—Anonymous

Overview

Today, business needs to be on the Web. Cost-effective marketing, increased sales opportunities, customer service, supply chain management, and enhanced Web server communications are just a few of the benefits the Internet offers. But, building and maintaining an Internet presence can require a considerable investment of resources, and organizations are actively seeking ways to get a high return on their investment.

Leading e-commerce software applications offer solutions that maximize a Web site’s server business value. These solutions reduce costs by automating and streamlining processes, and increase revenues by helping you market, sell, and service your products more effectively. Deploying a Web site server is a fast, comprehensive means to establish and maintain high-yield relationships with customers, suppliers, and other value-chain members. According to Forrester Research, companies saw online sales increase 20% between 2001 and 2002, versus 4.4% for traditional sales outlets.