Once it was opened to the general public, the Internet crossed that line in four years. In 1994, three million people, most of them in the United States, used the Internet. Some experts believe that one billion people may be connected to the Internet by 2005. This expansion is driving dramatic increases in computer, software, services and communications investments. Businesses invest in information technology and electronic commerce to increase productivity, cut costs and enhance customer service.
Consumers shop on the Internet because they find their choices dramatically increased.
They have access to much more information when making purchasing decisions. Busy consumers can save time and find shopping more convenient as merchants serve their needs individually. Better information and greater selection, combined with lower operating costs for many Internet business may, in turn, drive reductions in prices or improvements in quality. Consumers cite convenience as the number one reason for making a purchase online. Shopping on the Internet can save time.