E-business is the generic term for all of a company’s business processes that are carried out via the Internet or information and communication systems. This includes, for example, ordering and payment processes, order processing and marketing processes.

Auf traditionellen Wegen werden dagegen in der Regel die Produkte oder Dienstleistungen geliefert. Ausnahmen bilden Fälle, in denen dies elektronisch erfolgen kann, wie zum Beispiel bei der Bereitstellung von Software. Ein großer Teilbereich des E-Business ist der elektronische Handel, auch E-Commerce genannt. Heutige ERP-Systeme bieten in der Regel durch entsprechende Module eine Lösung für alle gängigen E-Business-Verfahren.

Sub-areas of e-business

E-business can be divided into different areas:

  • E-commerce: E-commerce companies usually operate an online store through which they offer and sell their goods or services. Not only are business transactions carried out digitally here, but also marketing measures, customer relationship management, etc.
  • E-Marketplace: E-Marketplaces are virtual Internet marketplaces where suppliers and potential customers are brought together. Purchases and sales are coordinated by the respective marketplace operator.
  • E-procurement: E-procurement means electronic procurement. It offers companies the opportunity to purchase goods and services via the internet or other digital networks. Among other things, chain supply management and procurement logistics are linked to this.

The extended area of e-business also includes the e-company and the e-community. E-company refers to web-based collaboration between different companies. An e-community is a web-based contact network that allows members to exchange information.

Can be integrated into an ERP system

Nowadays, the integration of supplier and customer relationships via the Internet is of crucial importance in order to remain competitive. It presents companies with the challenge of independently developing and implementing an e-business strategy that suits their respective market. A modern, web-based ERP system is a powerful tool for their realization. For example, it enables the integration of an online store and thus direct communication between the ERP and store systems.

FAQ on e-business

What is e-business?

E-business refers to the entirety of a company’s automatable business processes that are carried out using digital technologies and communication networks. Information, communication and transactions are mapped online or across systems.

How does e-business differ from e-commerce?

E-commerce focuses on online trading with products and services, i.e. essentially on sales. E-business, on the other hand, covers all digital processes – such as procurement, internal processes and partner communication.

Which elements or building blocks typically belong to e-business?

The central building blocks include e-procurement (digital procurement), e-marketplace (digital trading platforms), e-shop (online sales channels), e-community (digital communities/master data maintenance) and e-company (internally digitally networked company processes).

Why is e-business important for companies?

Because e-business makes processes more efficient, more flexible and more transparent. By digitally networking processes, costs can be reduced, throughput times shortened and new business models realized – this strengthens competitiveness and adaptability.

How does e-business relate to an ERP system?

A modern ERP system can support e-business processes by providing central data and process landscapes, enabling interfaces to external partners and digitally mapping end-to-end processes. In combination with e-business, ERP becomes a networking and control platform.

What challenges arise when implementing e-business?

Companies need to think and design business processes digitally, integrate technologies, ensure data quality and involve employees. It is also important to build systems that are compatible with partners and actively manage digital change (“change management”).