The Internet is changing how trading partners interact. It is changing how companies buy, sell, build, deliver, and manage. New competitors, products, services, and markets have been created, dramatically altering business landscapes. Changes in existing business systems and processes may be needed to compete and prosper in the digital networked economy.

The term eBusiness originated as a marketing slogan for technology companies. It is now a central theme at the heart of business strategy. eBusiness can be defined as the integration and optimization of business processes, applications, and organizations to leverage the Internet for business success in the digital networked economy.

Today, research shows that enterprises do not grasp the characteristics of eBusiness. This is due in large part to the confusing terminology-Internet, Web commerce, Internet commerce, e-commerce, and e-business. The confusing terminology leads to misconceptions, which can prevent appropriate eBusiness strategies from being developed.

Research from the Gartner Group uncovered the top 5 myths regarding eBusiness:

1. "E-business will not impact my enterprise."
   Whether the pressure comes from internal drivers to be more competitive or from changes in the market forcing different business processes, every enterprise will be affected. Accept that e-business will impact your organization, and ensure that you have a clear strategy in place.

2. "E-business is the same as e-commerce."
   E-commerce deals with using the Internet, digital communications and IT applications to enable the buying/selling process. E-business involves the continuous optimization of an organization's value proposition and value-chain position through the adoption of digital technology and the use of the Internet as the primary communications medium.

3. "It is better to be an e-business follower, than to be a leader."
   Market evidence shows this is not the case. Whether one looks at "dot.com" businesses or at manufacturing companies, being an e-business leader is better than being a follower.

4. "There is no risk in becoming an e-business."
   E-business means reorganizing the business and its market relationships so that the maximum value is achieved by all commercial activities. However, it also involves the risk of destabilizing the existing business - a careful balance needs to be maintained in transforming to an e-business.

5. "My existing staff can handle my e-business issues."
   The e-business concept is, by its nature, both new and fast moving. The majority of enterprises have not had the time to acquire or develop a ready pool of experienced staff. This is particularly true for staff that needs to understand what an e-business really means in business terms.

The LRS eBusiness Solutions approach helps businesses determine the answers to these questions. We understand that the key to eBusiness success is connecting every aspect of your business' internal and external processes.

LRS is uniquely qualified to develop eBusiness Solutions for our clients because we approach your business with:

• proven processes that create a successful business online.
• a long history of successful engagements.
• staff with expertise in proven technologies.
• strong relationships with industry leading partners.