9781285425436_Solutions_ch09/Electronic Commerce, 11th Edition 9781285425436 Chapter 9 Solutions

Review Questions 1. Write a paragraph in which you outline the differences between “shared hosting” and “dedicated hosting.” Answer: Shared hosting means that the client’s Web site is on a server that hosts other Web sites simultaneously and is operated by the service provider at its location. With dedicated hosting, the service provider makes a Web server available to the client, but the client does not share the server with other clients of the service provider. In both shared hosting and dedicated hosting, the service provider owns the server hardware and leases it to the client. The service provider is responsible for maintaining the Web server hardware and software, and provides the connection to the Internet through its routers and other network hardware. 2. Write a paragraph in which you describe the elements of a co-location service. Answer: In a co-location service, the service provider rents a physical space to the client to install its own server hardware. The client installs its own software and maintains the server. The service provider is responsible only for providing a reliable power supply and a connection to the Internet. 3. Write a paragraph in which you identify and briefly describe the three key elements that must exist in any electronic commerce software package. Answer: Responses will vary, but should note that all electronic commerce software must provide the following elements:  A catalog display  Shopping cart capabilities  Transaction processing 4. Giving online customers alternative paths that lead to products in which they might be interested is important. In one or two paragraphs, explain how static and dynamic catalogs might facilitate or inhibit customers as they try to find a particular product on a company’s Web site.