Educational approaches used by trade associations like the American Chambers of Commerce include product seminars and demonstration kiosks. Such interaction is vital to developing a widespread mindset for new ideas like electronic commerce. In addition, kiosks sponsored through trade associations can be set up for access and information in public areas. The kiosk contains a monitor and mouse and is connected to a local server, with access to limited Web sites. Rather than being full and free Internet access devices, kiosks are rather places where people can gain a preliminary insight into the power of the Internet generally, and electronic commerce more specifically.
Trade associations can also serve as important conduits for electronic commerce success stories.
In addition, linkages across borders to international groups can further the outward orientation and rapid uptake of the more advance uses for electronic commerce. Fifty-three percent of VITA s clients in Morocco are women. Al Amana is moving quickly to integrate the Internet into its back-office operations. The greater efficiency of the Internet will improve its cost structure so that even more funds are available for lending. SMEs are a fertile ground for electronic commerce.