Cost Differentiation

This assignment provides you with an opportunity to analyze the impact of e-commerce on a business. First, choose ONE of the following case studies that can be located in the Business Source Complete database of the online library:

MarketLine. (2012, July). Ideeli: The growth of the flash sale website. MarketLine. (2012). Play.com: The rapid rise of an online retailer.

After reading and examining the case, write at least a one-page analysis by addressing each of the following:

1. Briefly introduce the company and its history

2. Briefly describe the products and/or services available—what are consumers purchasing online?

3. Describe the basic elements of the company business model:

 Core value proposition of the company—what is it offering, and how does it satisfy customer needs?

 Target market/audience—who uses this service?

 Revenue model—where does the money come from?

 Competitive environment—who else is competing in this market, or who might enter the market and threaten

this company’s position?

 Competitive advantage analysis—how is the company attempting to gain an advantage? Competing on cost?

Differentiation?

 How are they promoting their products in the marketplace?

 How would you rate the company’s success (financial results if available)?

4. Be sure to answer at least ONE of the following questions:

 How has e-commerce impacted this business?

 How has an “e-commerce presence” provided this business with opportunities that otherwise would not have

existed?

Format your analysis paper by using Times New Roman, 12-point font, double-spacing, and one-inch margins. There is no need to include a title page nor a references page.