THE IMPACT OF E-COMMERCE ON SMALL BUSINESS

Abstract

The article provides a review of scientific literature in order to generalize the methodology for defining the concept of "electronic commerce". The main trends in the field of e-commerce in small business are characterized. The data on the development of the e-commerce market are analyzed and the following is emphasized: in the number of purchases from mobile devices has increased; creation and widespread use of social media pages is a key factor in the development of e-commerce by entrepreneurs. The advantages and disadvantages of using electronic commerce by small businesses are systematized. In given article authors shine a problem an analysis he shift toward online transactions and digital platforms has been accelerated to adapt to the changing business landscape. Through the review of scientific literature, a comprehensive understanding of e-commerce's impact on small businesses has been highlighted. The article has delved into the main trends shaping the e-commerce landscape for small businesses, emphasizing the significant increase in purchases made through mobile devices. This trend underscores the importance of having a mobile-friendly online presence for entrepreneurs to effectively reach their target audience. E-commerce is a tool through which firms can attain competitive advantage. Therefore it is interesting to further explore how firms exactly go about implementing e-commerce systems, and which path firms take from e-commerce idea generation up to realization of e-commerce success.To comprehensively understand the impact of e-commerce on small businesses, it is crucial to conduct a multiple case studies analysis using a qualitative research design. Small businesses experience challenges before, when, and after integrating e-commerce into their operational structures internally and externally, such as perceiving the technology as an unnecessary business cost, lack of resources to fund e-commerce infrastructure, and absence of managerial support to adopting a radical approach to innovation and growth of the business. The analysis of the impacts of e-commerce on small businesses helps to determine the opportunities and challenges in the business operation process.