While the hype surrounding Internet sales shows no signs of slowing, the hope remains fleeting. Even though this is the second Christmas season that e-commerce has been really widespread, small retailers still are testing the waters before diving in. Some local businesses report that Internet sales contribute to a healthy bottom line, but that bottom line already was healthy. In other words, only a small percentage of revenues come from Internet purchases. The Internet provides a wide range of financial possibilities and global visibility, yet some things must be avoided like the plague.
Customers are very impatient when it comes to the Web.
In recent tests of eight major e-commerce sites, we found that 43 percent of purchase attempts fail because sites are too difficult to shop on. Which can make the operators of the minor sites even more cautious. He declined to say how much money Internet sales contribute to the store's total revenues. Rehman said upgrades like these will contribute to a healthier bottom line for everyone - by fostering the marketplace. But for small retailers, going online means more than an easy and attractive Web site.