Take up of e-commerce takes off

There has been a dramatic rise in e-commerce applications over the past 12 months, according to Andersen Consulting, and not just in new high-tech companies.

In a study of attitudes and experiences completed in 1998, Andersen found definite - though limited - enthusiasm for e-commerce systems. Now, it reports finding the technology already embedded in the corporate strategies of a surprising number of leading organisations across a range of business sectors.

Previously focused mainly on sales and marketing, e-commerce applications are being increasingly introduced on a wider scale, including procurement, logistics and finance. Of the companies questioned by Andersen Consulting, over 80% expect to be using this technology in procurement within five years.

Despite this progress, there remain surprisingly high levels of concern amongst European executives about the ability of their companies to make the changes implied by implementing e-commerce principles. Many believe their organisations lack the necessary skills or the appropriate culture. But Andersen says that growing experience is tending to change these attitudes.

Says managing partner for technology Rosemary O'Mahony: "Fortune will favour the brave - those who act now to build their capabilities so they can succeed in the dynamic and competitive electronic economy."

Elliott Chase