Nearly one-quarter of online users have purchased something either on the Internet or an online service. That's the broad brush, but on closer look, there are distinct differences in how people approach the Web. Age, more than education or income, seems to be the prime determinant of Internet behavior. From the poll results, a sometimes surprising picture emerges of how the young and the old spend their time in cyberspace. Young people are more likely to use the Net for entertainment and socializing, while older folks spend most of their time on more serious matters.
Younger people tend to view the Web as a sprawling playground.
Young people are also avid players of Internet games and participate more in chat groups and discussion forums. Rather than chasing Gen-Xers, Net merchants may want to aim their efforts at older folks. The typical online shopper is predictably affluent but surprisingly advanced in age. Inc. All rights reserved.