A world of choices to plug in to the Net; many are finding the nerve to move to another I.S.P
Article Abstract:
As consumers of Internet service become more computer savvy and educated about the market place, more are willing to switch to new providers. The market place has become very competitive. First time users generally sign on with a provider whose software is already loaded on a new computer or one which, like America Online, markets its service by distributing its software with magazines, other company's products or through direct mail. AOL, the biggest ISP, has 39.4% of all home accounts, 41.9% if AOL's Compuserve is included. 15.3% of the market is in the hands of other large services like MSN, Earthlink, AT&T and Prodigy. The rest is shared among the over 4000 small Internet services available across the country. Currently, 36.7% of users have changed their provider at some point. Reasons can be the cost or poor quality service of jettisoned accounts or the personal touch that some providers have.
Publication Name: The New York Times
Subject: Business, general
ISSN: 0362-4331
Year: 1999
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Playing catch-up at the on-line mall
Article Abstract:
Traditional stores are setting up Websites for electronic transactions in an effort to compete with the already established on-line specialists like Amazon.com and Etoys. Businesses are finding that presence in the traditional marketplace doesn't translate into success online. Online market research firm Media Matrixe's list of the 50 most popular Web shopping sites has few of these Internet newcomers. They include bookseller Barnes & Noble which still does only half the business that Amazon.com does, Macy's, and Wal-Mart. Analysts say that traditional retailers who use the Web to try to drive traffic into their stores will miss the boat. Established online purveyors have the advantage of concentration on their distribution channel whereas stores are concerned about online sales cannibalizing their existing customer base.
Publication Name: The New York Times
Subject: Business, general
ISSN: 0362-4331
Year: 1999
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Web retailers empty wallets on advertising
Article Abstract:
The online retail industry is gearing up for a competitive Christmas season by pouring millions of dollars into advertising. This will be the make-it-or-break-it season for many online enterprises and they have often committed to spending money they do not have to insure they are noticed by consumers. Critics argue that this tactic could backfire because other crucial aspects of the businesses are being neglected.
Publication Name: The New York Times
Subject: Business, general
ISSN: 0362-4331
Year: 1999
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