Comply with the regulations Firms need to comply with the Data Protection Act 1998, which introduces stricter provisions relating to the storage and transfer of personal data. Beware of copyright, particularly when using external website developers. For example, electronic signatures may be acceptable in certain jurisdictions, but not in others. The requirement to comply with VAT regulations in the UK still holds. Non-compliance carries financial and reputation risks.
Testing is vital.
It should be carried out on real data, covering all anticipated interfaces and security conditions. It is pointless implementing an e-commerce system if the staff do not understand what it does and how it works. Post audit Monitor success - whether the original objectives have been attained or not, develop performance indicators so as to assess the project. E-commerce is about building relationships with your IT suppliers and with your clients. The internet offers firms the ability to narrowcast - in other words, to market to an audience of one.