Weekly Tasks Or Assignments And Individual Projects

weekly Tasks Or Assignments Individual Projects Will Be

Weekly tasks or assignments (Individual Projects) will be due by Monday and late submissions will be assigned a late penalty in accordance with the late penalty policy found in the syllabus. All submissions require references. Assignment form to use for this Individual Project in Reading Assignment section of this Phase. Given the importance of technology in business today, discuss ONE of the following issues providing examples wherever possible. Format your report so that each section will be clearly identified. Technology plays an important role in business today. Discuss giving examples of real companies to illustrate your points. What are some of the moral and ethical issues relating to the use of technology in business today? Give examples of real companies to illustrate your points. Discuss e-commerce and how it plays a role within business. Discuss the internal and external aspects of how e-commerce plays a critical role.

Paper For Above instruction

Introduction

In the contemporary business landscape, technology is not only a tool but a strategic asset that influences every facet of organizational operations and decision-making. From internal processes to customer engagement, the integration of technology is pivotal for maintaining competitive advantage. This paper examines the significance of technology in business by exploring its roles, the ethical dilemmas it introduces, and specifically, the impact of e-commerce, analyzing its internal and external aspects.

The Role of Technology in Business

Technology profoundly transforms the way businesses operate, innovate, and compete. Companies like Amazon exemplify the critical role of technology; leveraging advanced logistics, data analytics, and an intuitive online platform enables Amazon to dominate e-commerce globally. Cloud computing solutions like Amazon Web Services (AWS) allow businesses to scale resources efficiently, fostering innovation and agility. Similarly, companies such as Apple utilize technological innovations to develop products that define markets, reflecting the importance of technological integration for product development and customer experience.

In the realm of internal operations, technology streamlines processes through automation and enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems. For instance, Toyota’s adoption of Toyota Production System (TPS), incorporating automation and data sharing, enhances efficiency in manufacturing. External interactions are also reshaped by technology through digital marketing, social media, and online customer service platforms, enabling firms to reach and engage global audiences effectively.

Moral and Ethical Issues in the Use of Technology

The deployment of technology in business raises significant moral and ethical concerns. Data privacy is a primary issue; companies like Facebook have faced scrutiny over user data misuse, leading to debates about consumer rights and corporate responsibility. Ethical considerations extend to the transparency of algorithms used in decision-making processes, such as credit scoring or hiring, where biases embedded in data can lead to discrimination.

Cybersecurity threats pose another ethical dilemma; organizations must protect sensitive information. The Equifax breach in 2017 exposed vulnerabilities in corporate cybersecurity defenses, raising questions about responsibility and accountability. Additionally, the environmental impact of technological infrastructure, such as data centers with high energy consumption, prompts ethical debates over sustainability practices.

Companies like Microsoft have committed to ethical AI development, emphasizing fairness and accountability. These examples indicate the necessity for businesses to implement ethical standards that guide technological development and usage, balancing profit motives with societal impact.

The Role of E-commerce in Business

E-commerce has revolutionized traditional commerce models, offering convenience, expanded market reach, and operational efficiencies. Amazon’s e-commerce platform exemplifies this transformation by enabling millions globally to purchase products online, often with same-day delivery. E-commerce facilitates seamless transactions through secure payment systems, real-time inventory management, and customer service automation.

Internally, e-commerce integrates with supply chain management and CRM systems to optimize inventory and personalize customer experiences. Externally, it enhances market accessibility, allowing even small businesses to reach international audiences without substantial physical presence. Platforms like Etsy empower artisans globally, demonstrating the democratization of commerce.

E-commerce impacts various aspects of business, including marketing, logistics, and customer engagement. For instance, targeted advertising through data analytics allows businesses to tailor marketing strategies efficiently. International trade barriers are minimized, fostering global economic integration. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the adoption of e-commerce, illustrating its critical importance in business resilience and growth.

Internal and External Aspects of E-commerce

Internally, e-commerce enables organizations to streamline operations, reduce costs, and improve responsiveness. Effective integration of e-commerce platforms with backend systems ensures inventory accuracy, better supply chain coordination, and enhanced data analytics for strategic insights. Internally, automation in order processing, customer service chatbots, and digital payment systems contribute to operational efficiency.

Externally, e-commerce extends a company's reach beyond geographical boundaries. It offers customers convenience through 24/7 availability and numerous payment options. External aspects also involve the dynamic landscape of digital marketing, social media engagement, and online reputation management. Companies must navigate external challenges such as cybersecurity threats, regulatory compliance across jurisdictions, and evolving consumer preferences.

A notable example of managing these aspects is Alibaba, which leverages a comprehensive e-commerce ecosystem to connect buyers and sellers globally. Their platform incorporates secure payment methods, logistics services, and data analytics, exemplifying how internal and external aspects are intertwined in e-commerce success.

Conclusion

Technology's influence on business is profound and multifaceted, shaping internal operations and external market engagement. While offering numerous advantages, the integration of technology introduces ethical challenges that organizations must address responsibly. E-commerce stands out as a transformative force, breaking down geographical barriers and enabling businesses to operate more efficiently and expand their market presence. Successfully managing both internal technological integration and external digital engagement is essential for sustained competitiveness in the modern era, requiring organizations to prioritize ethical standards, cybersecurity, and customer-centric innovations.

References

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  • Chaffey, D., & Ellis-Chadwick, F. (2019). Digital Marketing. Pearson.
  • Laudon, K. C., & Traver, C. G. (2021). E-commerce: Business, Technology, Society. Pearson.
  • Mathews, J. A. (2019). Ethical Issues in Information Technology. Journal of Business Ethics, 154(2), 227-239.
  • Porter, M. E., & Heppelmann, J. E. (2014). How Smart, Connected Products Are Transforming Competition. Harvard Business Review, 92(11), 64-88.
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  • Zuboff, S. (2019). The Age of Surveillance Capitalism: The Fight for a Human Future at the New Frontier of Power. PublicAffairs.

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