Purpose -The purpose of this paper is to evaluate the effectiveness of online social networking by entrepreneurs in the Arabian Gulf. Design/methodology/approach -A descriptive research is conducted by interviewing a number of entrepreneurs in the Arabian Gulf who use online social networks as a method of promoting their products. Findings -It is found that social networking is a cheap and easy method of advertising and gives all entrepreneurs a better chance of reaching their target market and, thereby, in succeeding in their ventures. Social implications -With the rise in the use of social networking, entrepreneurs can now target their markets using online social networks. Social networking web sites allow businesses to introduce their products to specific market segments, with low expense, and with a low chance of failure. This rising phenomenon of web-based social interaction can change the way businesses operate in future. Originality/value -The paper explores the possibilities of entrepreneurial success with this new element, in electronic media, within integrated marketing communications.
Purpose -This paper aims to evaluate the level of awareness and current usage rates of business-to-consumer (B2C) e-commerce in Bahrain. Design/methodology/approach -A literature review was conducted along with a questionnaire. The questionnaire was distributed in different universities across Bahrain. This paper discusses the global growth of e-commerce and then narrows it down specifically to Bahrain. After discussing the benefits of e-commerce, it introduces the technical and non-technical limitations and analyzes the questionnaire on the non-technical limitations in Bahrain. Findings -The number of Bahraini residents who participated in e-commerce was very low, mainly due to the feeling of insecurity when it comes to the level of regulations over the internet and privacy issues when it comes to providing personal information online.Research limitations/implications -The focus of this paper is to discuss e-commerce from a consumer's point of view. Only the non-technical limitations in B2C e-commerce are broached and studied. The technical limitations and business aspects of e-commerce are not discussed. Moreover, only a selected age group sample was chosen for the initial research. Practical implications -The paper provides useful information for businesses considering establishing a B2C environment in Bahrain, allowing them to identify what factors they may have to overcome in order to be successful. Originality/value -This paper will help in identifying key behavioral issues that are deterring performance of doing online purchasing and transactions. The survey results can help ease the acceptance of e-commerce in Bahrain.
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