Question

Explain online means of conducting business.

Explain the customer-to-customer mode of conducting online business.

Explain B2C as an online means of conducting business.

Explain C2C as an online means of conducting business.

Answer 1

Online means of conducting business are as follows.

1. Business to Consumer (B2C): ​The Business-to-Consumer (B2C) model involves companies selling products or services directly to individual consumers through online platforms. This approach eliminates the need for physical shopfronts, allowing customers to browse, select, and purchase items from the comfort of their homes. Transactions are typically completed using digital payment methods such as credit/debit cards, digital wallets, or online banking. Once purchased, products are delivered to consumers via courier or postal services, while digital goods may be downloaded directly from the seller's website. B2C e-commerce has revolutionised shopping by offering convenience, variety, and accessibility, making it a dominant force in modern commerce.
2. Consumer to Consumer (C2C): This type of e-commerce occurs between consumers. Platforms like OXL and eBay are prime examples, where consumers sell goods and services directly to other consumers. PayPal also plays a significant role in C2C commerce by allowing buyers to send money, which is then held by PayPal until the goods are shipped and accepted by the buyer, ensuring a secure transaction.
3. Business to Business (B2B): Business-to-Business (B2B) e-commerce refers to online transactions between businesses, such as manufacturers, wholesalers, and distributors. This model is prevalent in sectors like automotive, manufacturing, and technology, where companies procure raw materials, components, or services from other businesses. For instance, companies like Maruti Udyog, Telco, Bajaj Auto, Thermax, and Kinetic engage in B2B commerce to streamline their supply chains.​
   B2B e-commerce platforms facilitate various functions, including order placement, invoice receipt, and payment processing, often through Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) systems. These platforms enable businesses to manage inventory, track deliveries, and maintain long-term relationships with suppliers and distributors. 
4. Intra Business (lntra-B): This mode allows for online transactions between multiple units or branches of the same commercial firm. This mode facilitates transactions between the main office and subsidiaries/branches, as well as between one subsidiary/branch and another. Intra-business transactions occur between subsidiaries/branches. These interactions enable personal production, efficient inventory management, and excellent client order handling. The Virtual Private Network (VPN) allows employees to operate remotely. 
5. Business to Government (B2G): This mode allows for online transactions between multiple units or branches of the same commercial firm. Transactions between the main office and subsidiaries/branches, or between one subsidiary/branch and another.
   Another subsidiary/branch is intra-business transactions. These interactions enable personal production, efficient inventory management, and excellent client order handling. The Virtual Private Network (VPN) allows employees to operate remotely. 
6. Government to Business (G2B): Government agencies and departments can communicate with businesses online. The government may deliver clearances, certifications, permits, tax notices, and assessment orders to business firms.