Title

The impact of internet in the business environment

Chapter 1
1.1 Introduction and Background

While we can technically date the internet back to 1983, it was not until
1990 that it took on its more familiar form, which has since changed the
way society functions. The reorganization of commercial operations and
corporate growth plans is considered in the modern business world as
being significantly accelerated by technology. With its rapid development,
the internet has incorporated itself into many facets of our way of life.
Since ICT is a component of every activity carried out in a business setup,
businesses cannot survive in the twenty-first century without it. The
growth and development of every corporate organization, therefore,
depends greatly on the flow of information. Through the internet, it is
simple to communicate with the company's employees and clients.

Businesses in the twenty-first century are developing extremely quickly.

Business transactions are getting more dynamic as the globe becomes a
global village, which has led to an increase in global commerce. As a
result, the amount of commerce in Zimbabwe has increased, necessitating
quick money transfers, cross-continental payments, and many other
services that encourage corporate growth (Al-Mudimigh, 2007). The
transmission of text messages and computer data through communication
networks like the Internet is known as electronic mail (e-mail) (Nwosu,
2004). The largest difference between email systems and postal sending
services, however, is the added time and expense (Fapohunda, 1999).

Email may be used to send many kinds of information, including textual

material as well as audio, video, and pictures. E-mail is becoming a more
common form of communication, especially at business, according to
Oketunji (2000). The expansion and competitiveness of Zimbabwe's
economy have been shown to be driven by the internet. Within a few
years, whole sectors underwent drastic change, hundreds of thousands of
new businesses sprung up, and business owners and investors made or
lost enormous sums of money. These were all outcomes of the digital
internet. The survival, preservation, and development of the organization
as well as the economy sector, area, or nation as a whole may suffer
severely from a lack of initiative and participation in the transition to the
digital economy, according to Caraiani (2008).

(Tan and Hunter, 2005) The way organizations function nowadays is

significantly impacted by the internet. Due to the internet's numerous
applications, the majority of businesses currently find it impossible to
imagine operating without it. The internet has a recognized and well-
established global effect. The internet is now used by about one-third of
all people, which is an incredible penetration rate. Due to the large
number of individuals using the internet, business has altered in the
digital era. (Choi, 2010) The significance of the internet in business has
been further strengthened by developments in communication and
information technology. The internet is frequently utilized by businesses
to market and promote their goods and services. The internet is utilized to
disseminate information, offer customer service, and train staff. According to
Bojnec and Ferto (2010) the internet is evolving into a potent tool for workers,
and this has an unmistakable influence on business. Small and medium-
sized firms may now interact with consumers and solicit feedback or
launch a new product. The size and reach of the Internet as a tool have
expanded throughout time. Because it has improved social and economic
conditions, it is a contentious phenomenon. Even though it is still a crucial
tool for small businesses today, it is viewed as being too static. A small
business's reputation may suffer if it doesn't use social media and doesn't
keep updating its website, as has happened in several circumstances.

1.2 Statement of the problem

In Africa many businesses have not explore the use of internet like in Europe, Asia and
America. In Harare many SME’s have not used the internet properly in acquiring large
customer base and competitive advantage. The impact of internet in the business environment
case study Harare capital city of Zimbabwe. The researcher wants to examine how the
business can benefit from the use of the internet. However, numerous researchers
demonstrate that internet enhances businesses' ability to produce goods and services. Travel
expenses for sector employees of different enterprises are significantly decreased by
investments in internet. Internet is crucial for sustainable development in developing
countries, In the long run, investing in internet therefore boosts the economy in Zimbabwe.

1.3 Research Objectives

a) To investigate the positive and negatives outcomes of the internet in the business
environment.
b) To investigate the limitations of the internet in business environment in Harare.
c) To explore more internet applications which can be used in building solid business in
Harare.
d) To identify factors that can lead to the good use of internet in the business environment.

1.4 Research questions

a) What are the positive and negatives outcomes of the internet in the business
environment?
b) What are the limitations of the internet in business environment in Harare?
c) Which are the internet applications which can be used in building solid business in
Harare?
d) What are the factors that can lead to the good use of internet in the business
environment?

1.5 Purpose/Aim of the study

The study's overarching goals are to advance general knowledge and investigate how
internet is affecting Zimbabwe's business environment today. The study's conclusions will
list the numerous advantages that internet brings to contemporary industry in an effort to
spur significant investment in the field. The study's findings will also assist the
management of various firms in understanding how internet affects their expansion and
development, as well as the issues that impede internet implementation so that they may
offer solutions. For academics and students who wish to pursue future research in this
 area, the study will help increase the body of knowledge in the area of internet in
contemporary business.

Chapter 2: Literature Review

2.0 Introduction
The literature, both theoretical and empirical, is reviewed in this chapter. According to
Lotsmark (2007), a literature review also examines the current level of knowledge on the
issue under consideration. As a result, a review of the relevant literature aids in revealing
potential solutions to the problem.

2.1. Theoretical literature

2.1.1 The influence of internet on the business environment

The internet has had a huge influence on the business environment, revolutionizing how
businesses operate, compete, and engage with customers. This study of the literature
evaluates the influence of the internet on several parts of business, such as marketing, sales,
customer service, and supply chain management.

Marketing:
The internet has transformed marketing by opening up new avenues for advertising and
promotion. According to Chaffey and Ellis-Chadwick (2019), digital marketing has become a
crucial component of most organizations' marketing strategy. Social media platforms like as
Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram have evolved into effective marketing tools, allowing them
to directly communicate with customers and generate brand loyalty (Kietzmann, Hermkens,
McCarthy, & Silvestre, 2011). Furthermore, search engine optimization (SEO) and pay-per-
click (PPC) advertising have emerged as critical methods for businesses seeking to boost
their online presence and attract new clients (Strauss & Frost, 2014).
Sales:
The internet has also changed sales, with e-commerce now accounting for a sizable share of
overall retail sales. According to Statista (2021), worldwide e-commerce revenues are
expected to exceed $4.9 trillion by 2021. Online marketplaces such as Amazon and eBay
have made it simpler for small enterprises to reach a worldwide audience (Molla &
Christensen, 2017), while digital payment systems such as PayPal and Stripe have eased the
process of receiving payments online (Laudon & Traver, 2018). Mobile commerce has also
emerged as a key trend, with customers increasingly utilizing their smartphones and tablets to
make purchases on the go (Chaffey & Ellis-Chadwick, 2019).
Customer Service:
Companies may now provide better customer service thanks to the internet, with online
support channels such as chatbots, email, and social media making it simpler for clients to
acquire the assistance they require (Parvatiyar & Sheth, 2001). Furthermore, customer
relationship management (CRM) software has evolved into a necessary tool for monitoring
client contacts and offering individualized service (Buttle, 2018). Companies that provide
exceptional online customer service are more likely to establish long-term client loyalty,
resulting in improved customer retention rates and enhanced profitability (Verhoef, Lemon,
Parasuraman, Roggeveen, Tsiros, & Schlesinger, 2009).

Supply Chain Management:

The internet has had a significant influence on supply chain management, with businesses
now adopting online systems to manage inventories, track shipments, and collaborate with
suppliers. E-procurement platforms, according to Chopra and Meindl (2016), have made it
easier for businesses to find goods and negotiate rates. Cloud-based software has enabled
supply chain partners to collaborate in real time, increasing visibility and responsiveness
(Christopher, 2016). Furthermore, the internet of things (IoT) has emerged as a prominent
trend, with corporations adopting sensors and other connected devices to monitor and
optimize their supply chains (Mourtada, 2020).
2.1.2 Role of the internet in Business
The internet is frequently portrayed as a boon for small businesses because it lowers
transaction costs and levels the playing field. The benefits are frequently listed as broadening
the breadth of marketing, wider and deeper communication, accessing new customers,
lowering operational costs, and working with suppliers and other partners (Drew, 2003).
Because it occurred in such a short period of time, the internet presents a unique chance to
evaluate the formation and expansion of a commercial sector (Javalgi et al, 2004). The first
internet environment may be classified as virgin, with significant growth to be expected.
Among developing technologies, the internet is a new strategic instrument that is reshaping
organizations and offering new possibilities as well as obstacles for international marketers as
more nations rapidly join to the global marketplace (ibid). Electronic commerce is changing
the way businesses plan their growth plans and is a major driver of corporate growth. The
goal is for IT to be viewed as a fresh engine for growth rather than an irritating cost center
(Fruhling and Digman, 2000).
2.3 Conceptual Framework

2.3.1 The impact of the Internet on the business environment in Romania

Christopher (2016) states that it is nearly commonly acknowledged that the Internet plays a
growing role in each of our lives. Whether we're talking about our profession or business,
whether it's about knowledge, communication, or relaxation, it's all about technological
advancement. (Strauss and Frost, 2014) Many of us are drawn to such a big, complex, and yet
tolerant environment. The huge potential brought about by business expansion promoted the
emergence and promotion of new ideas such as electronic business (e-business) and
electronic commerce (e-commerce). (Verhoef et al, 2009) Over time, this has shown to be not
just feasible technological alternatives to the conventional means of doing business or trade,
but also tremendously profitable alternatives. In this study, the research conducted research
on the Internet's influence on business, concentrating on the changes brought about by the
Internet in corporate operations (Statista, 2021).
Information technology is no longer just an extension of business; it has become the primary
driver of change (Strauss and Frost, 2014). Electronic enterprises are more than just a fad;
they are a novel approach to the "making business" notion. There are changes in how
information is utilized, in how customers, suppliers, and workers are contacted, in marketing
and promotion method, and so on (Statista, 2021). In recent years, we have seen a profusion
of commercial applications that take use of the public operating standards provided by the
Internet. Companies in numerous industries (banking, entertainment, telecommunications,
and distribution) adapt their business practices to capitalize on the potential of new
technology (Verhoef et al, 2009). The technological portals to a new global economy, an
electronic one, were wide open. However, internet companies are not built only on the speedy
dissemination of information. There is also a basis for continual change, which, by definition,
necessitates perpetual development and innovation. (Strauss and Frost, 2014) To compete, we
must innovate quicker than our competitors who are attempting to do the same. Of course, it
could be anywhere, in any country on the planet.

2.3.2 The Impact of Internet Use on Business-to-Business Marketing: Examples from

American and European Companies (Karayanni and Avlonitis, 2000)
Throughout the previous decade, the Internet has been a popular topic for countless research
and papers. However, there is a paucity of comprehensive empirical research addressing the
marketing activities that are influenced by Internet use and the resulting performance
consequences (Karayanni and Avlonitis, 2000). In this article, we describe the Internet's
involvement in business-to-business marketing and identify market-oriented activities that are
influenced by Internet use intensity. (Chopra and Mendl, 2016) The researchers discovered a
significant beneficial effect of Internet use on sales management activities, market-oriented
product management activities, and sales performance and efficiency in a sample of 130
industrial enterprises. The study's findings also emphasize the importance of the sales force in
the successful deployment of Internet marketing tactics within firms (Mourtada, 2020).

2.3.3 The Economic Impact of the Internet: Examples & Characteristics

(Mourtada, 2020) Since the inception of the World Wide Web, Internet usage has risen at an
exponential rate. The Internet is now used by more than just the government. Banks,
corporations, healthcare facilities, educational institutions, and practically everything else has
gone digital and has Internet connectivity. This has had a significant influence on the US
economy as well as the economies of countries all over the world (Chopra and Mendl, 2016).

Creation of Jobs
(The Internet has aided in the creation of new occupations. Indeed, according to a 2018
research conducted by the Internet organisation, a trade organisation that represents Internet
firms worldwide, more than six million Americans work in the Internet industry (Mourtada,
2020). This equates to around 4% of total US employment and is more than double the
amount of Internet jobs available in 2014. Supporting the Internet's infrastructure, conducting
trade, advertising, and educating others how to use it are all jobs in the Internet industry.
Many other types of occupations, such as those in healthcare facilities, financial
organizations, schools, or any other environment that uses the system, are also supported by
internet jobs (Chopra and Mendl, 2016).

Increased Productivity and Efficiency

According to Molla and Christensen (2017) in many aspects, the Internet has boosted
company productivity and efficiency. When expert opinions are required, it is a ready source
of important information. It also saves on business travel expenditures because firms may
interact over the Internet instead of meeting in person. (Laudon and Traver, 2018)Many
employees nowadays work from home. This means that a company may be able to hire the
necessary ability or talent more readily because the individual does not need to relocate from
his or her existing location to accomplish the work. The Internet also improves the efficiency
of workplaces and facilities by offering electronic record systems that may store critical
documents or other information. These documents may then be simply transferred from one
company to another (Laudon and Traver, 2018).

2.4 Chapter Summary

In conclusion, the internet has had a significant impact on the business environment,
transforming the way companies operate, compete, and interact with customers. While the
internet has brought many benefits to the business world, it has also created new challenges,
such as cybersecurity threats, data privacy concerns, and the need for digital skills training.
As technology continues to evolve, companies will need to stay up-to-date with the latest
trends and strategies to remain competitive in the digital age.
Chapter 3: Research Methodology

3.1 Introduction
This chapter outlines the research methods used in carrying out the research. It gives outlines
of the research design, research subjects, sampling method, research instruments used, and
data analysis and presentation. Introduction:

3.2 Research Design

In this study, formal descriptive survey was employed in the case of Harare. Descriptive
survey inquires defined population with respect to certain variables (Murimba and Moyo,
1995). The researcher applied the descriptive survey method and techniques because
important data was collected without complex skills. Some of the information collected was
inform of facts and feelings of beneficiaries. Consequently, descriptive survey method was
suitable for this research. Descriptive method is the best method of collecting original data
for the purpose of describing large population (Saunders, 2003)

Formal descriptive research was chosen because it allowed the collection of a large amount of
data from sizeable population easily and in a highly economical way. Using the descriptive
survey, data can easily and systematically be gathered, interpreted and used as a basis for
carrying out the study. A variety of research instruments can be used to study the relationship
between phenomena in the descriptive survey for example documentary, questionnaires, case
studies and observations. Information that can be collected using descriptive survey includes
attitudes which can be prevalent in large population, opinions and impressions. Descriptive
surveys have some drawbacks. The first drawback is that not all respondents willing to admit
that they lack adequate knowledge about a particular topic and often give false responses for
saving their prestigious ego. Secondly, respondents may purposely deceive researchers by
giving incorrect answers. Leedy (1997) observes that the descriptive survey design might be
susceptible to distortion through bias. The research also used both qualitative and
quantitative research methods. It opted to use qualitative methodology because it has some
richness of data since it uses some structured interviews and it records actual data. The
advantage of qualitative research is that it focuses on specific people and its emphasis is on
words rather than numbers. However, the weaknesses of qualitative methodology were the
strength of the quantitative research. The quantitative research was used to permit
calculations of statistics, which quantifies the distribution of variables among the population
under the study. The data was easily summarised, which facilitated the communication of
findings. The weaknesses of the quantitative research were covered up by the strengths of
qualitative methodology. Therefore, the research considered the use of triangulation
methodology in this study so as to make sure that data is valid and reliable. Triangulation is
when the researcher collects data from various points of view to examine the issue from
different angles.

3.3 Research Subjects

Research subjects are defined as comprising of the population, sample, thus the people or
objects under study. (Saunders, 2003)

3.3.1 Population
Wegner (1993) defines a population as all possible observation of the random variable under
study. This study uses cross sectional data drawing its sample from a survey carried out in
Harare. The target population of this study are all the business in Harare who are not
embracing internet. The total population added up to 10 SME’s.
3.3.2 Sample size
A sample size of 10 SME’S has been selected for this study. The sample is approximately
10% of the whole population. This small sample has been used mainly because it was less
costly to obtain data for the selected subset of the population, rather than the entire Harare
population (businesses not embracing Technology). Furthermore, data collected through a
carefully selected sample is a highly accurate measure of the larger population. The sample
enables simple calculation of inferential statistics to generalise results in the time frame
given. However, the sample consisted of widely dispersed members so collecting data from
these widely dispersed members was expensive especially face to face interviews.

3.3.3 Research sample

A sample was chosen from the population of interest to the study. Leedy (1997) defines
sample as a small proportion of a population selected for observation and analysis. It is not
always practical to gather data on every observation in the population; a sample is usually
gathered on the random variable. Mason (1996) argues that in order to yield quality data, the
sample must be representative of the population, permit accurate collection of data that is all
population units should have a fair chance of being included. In this study probability
sampling was used to come up with a sample from businesses in Harare. This being simple
random sampling which was used to pick the respondents by the researcher. Simple random
sampling involved the selection of the sample at random from the sampling frame. Simple
random system was straightforward and inexpensive and the researcher finds it possible to
assess the sampling error involved. Simple random sampling ensures that each item in the
entire population has an equal chance of being included in the sample.
3.4 Research Instruments
This study used formal questionnaire schedules and interview guides. The interview
questions were presented to the Directors, CEOs, Managers and general staff . The
questionnaires were presented to the selected group of respondents. The instruments were
tested for validity and reliability before finally administered to the relevant respondents.

3.4.1 Formal Survey Questionnaire

Milne (2009) defines a questionnaire as a series of questions which are systematically and
objectively designed for the purpose of gathering information from respondents. Formal
questionnaires consisting of structured, semi- structured and unstructured questions were
used to collect data with the Harare Companies. The formal survey questionnaire was self-
administered to ensure total response as there was a chance for probing the questions.

Justification for the use of questionnaires

According to Christopher (2016), the questionnaire was the prime instrument put in use by
the researcher because it has a number of advantages. Firstly, it was easier for the researcher
to obtain information from the research population. Secondly, questionnaires afford the
researcher to maintain high level of confidentiality of data collected from participants.
Thirdly, it allowed further probing of the respondents. Lastly, structured questions were cost
effective because they were reproduced and given to many respondents. However, much
thought was put to the possibility of misinterpretation of questions, thereby rendering the
instrument less valid. Some of the respondents were unwillingness to respond as a result of
lack of appreciation of what was happening and the uncertainty of the information. The
standardised answers frustrated some of the respondents.

3.4.2 Key Informant Interviews

Interviews were used in this study as they provide more information as the interviewee can
give a personal and even unsolicited information. Leedy (1997) defines an interview as verbal
interaction and direct contact between the interviewer and the interviewee. The researcher
was guided by interview guides. The researcher interviewed members to solicit for more
information on the operations and benefits in helping to reduce poverty.

Justification of key informant interviews

Personal interviews with members of staff enabled the researcher to ask additional questions
not originally included in the interview questions. However, arranging the interviews was
time consuming in some instances because of the busy schedules of some of the respondents
and this resulted in the rescheduling of most of the meetings.

Validity and reliability of Formal survey questionnaires and key informant interviews
Sample questionnaire questions were first forwarded to experts for corrections to improve
response rate. The experts included the lecturer and the mentor. Pilot study was undertaken in
order to evaluate the validity of the questionnaire. The researcher also sent an interview
guide to experts for corrections to improve response rate. Interviews were carried with other
people and organisation outside the sample. The responses provided from both instruments
were similar showing the reliability and validity of the instruments.

3.5 Data Collecting Procedures

Hoggart (2002) defines data collection procedures as the steps or activities that describe the
general way data was gathered. Since the sample size was quite significant, the researcher
was helped by the research assistant in collecting data. The researcher did not take much time
to explain to the research assistant how the formal survey questionnaire was going to be
administered since the research assistant had know-how of administering the instruments.
The researcher asked the research assistant to interview the respondents so as to test the
ability to administer the questionnaire. This was done after pilot survey. The research
assistant began data collection whilst the researcher kept a closer look at the way the
interviews were going. Having been assured of the research assistant’s ability to administer
the formal survey questionnaire, data collection proceeded.
The researcher also used interview guides to collect data. The researcher used electronic
emails and telecommunication to make some appointments with the target group of people.
The data collected included the demographic data such as gender, age, marital status and
levels education. Time was taken to go through the entire formal survey questionnaire and
areas that needed verification were noted.

3.6 Data analysis

The researcher processed all data. Both qualitative and quantitative data were incorporated in
the analysis. For quantitative data, the researcher used the Microsoft excel software package.
The output from this software was used to compute tables, bar graphs and pie charts.
Qualitative data was used to analyse the data in relation to the set objectives. Qualitative data
was based on meanings expressed through words, for example responses through open ended
questions. Meanings through words resulted in the collection of non-standardised data, which
required classification, and was analysed through the use of conceptualisation. The researcher
also used frequency count and content quote techniques for qualitative data analysis.
3.7 Summary
This chapter addresses all the issues that form the backbone of the research process. All the
research was carried with the references to the issues that are outlined in this chapter. The
next chapter is data presentation and analysis. This is mainly to provide meaning to the
findings so as to provide answers to the research questions. Both qualitative and quantitative
means of analysis are employed by means of tables, pie charts, graphs and content analysis.
CHAPTER 4: RESULTS
4.0 Introduction

This chapter focuses on the presenting of information acquired subjectively and

quantitatively from Harare's ten SMEs. As a result, the data will be presented in topics
depending on the study objectives. This chapter analyzes and interprets the data
quantitatively and qualitatively. The presentation is divided into two parts. Quantitative
studies are presented first, followed by qualitative research. The analyses were carried out in
order to achieve the objectives outlined in the introduction chapter. This section presents the
study's findings in relation to the research questions.

a) What are the positive and negatives outcomes of the internet in the business
environment?
b) What are the limitations of the internet in business environment in Harare?
c) Which are the internet applications which can be used in building solid business in
Harare?
d) What are the factors that can lead to the good use of internet in the business
environment?

The presentation and analysis employed both qualitative and quantitative approaches to
understand and derive meaning from the data because it was gathered using a variety of
procedures. The quantitative outputs were produced using Microsoft Excel, while the
qualitative data content analysis included data reduction, refining, as well as summarizing
and analyzing the coded information. The study questions served as the foundation for the
presentation's summary of the findings. This chapter describes the information acquired
during the study.

4.1 Demographics of respondents

The researcher selected a total of 10 companies for the study, one from each organization.
The participants were chosen by the researcher using simple random sampling in each
organization. 4.1.1 Gender Distribution of Respondents

Total number of male and female who participated in the study

From the pie chart below, it can be noted that there are more male than female participants.
The pie chart (figure 4. 2) below shows that majority of the participants in the study were
males (90%) whereas females constituted 10%.

Figure 4.2 shows the gender Distribution of Respondents

Total number of Male and Female respondents

who participated in the study

Female
10%

Female
Male

Male
90%
4.1.2 Education level of the Participant
It is important to note that more participants had a Bachelors’ degree with 6 participants
(60%) while the least was one participant who had diploma (1%) as shown in the table 4.1
below.

Table 4.1 Shows the education level of the participant and the percentages

Level of Education Frequency Percentage

Diploma 1 10%
Bachelors 6 60%
Masters 3 30%
Total 10 100%

4.1.3 Levels chosen for the research

From Figure 4.2 we can note that more participants came from the management level than the
lower level. This can be supported by the fact that in startups and small medium companies in
Harare are still growing and developing and the management level is the one well vexed with
technology. From this research 4 participants were lower-level employees with a percentage
of 40 while the management level had 6 participants with an overall percentage of 60% of the
total participants.

Figure 4.2 Types of level chosen for the study.

 Types of level chosen for this study

Management Level 60%

Management Level
Lower level

Lower level 40%

4.2 Qualitative results

4.2.1 The positive and negatives outcomes of the internet in the business environment

Positive Outcomes
According to the participants the following are the positive outcomes of the internet in the
business environment.
Access to a Wider Market

Businesses in Harare may now more quickly and easily access a larger market thanks to the
internet. This has made it possible for new businesses to reach the pinnacles of success more
quickly.

More Automation

Many company processes can now be automated thanks to the internet. There are many
instances of automation, from responding to customer inquiries to being guided through a
purchase on an e-commerce site. Automation is made feasible by applications and programs
powered by artificial intelligence and the internet, which lowers operating expenses and
keeps everything under control.

Improved Advertising
Due of the internet's wide reach, businesses are having a field day running advertisements
and promoting their products. Running advertisements that are in line with the objectives of
the relevant firm has made it simple to use various media to get the desired effects.
Businesses today have a vast arsenal at their disposal, ranging from movies and high-quality
graphics to popular memes and GIFs.

Remote Working

The ability to hire and manage employees remotely is a further effect of the internet on
corporate operations. Because they are no longer required to offer a central place for them to
operate from, businesses may benefit from having a full-time or part-time crew at a fraction
of the expense. This helps businesses maintain minimal overhead expenses, allowing them to
provide fantastic services while keeping a sizable portion of their income. Since they won't
need to be close to your headquarters in order to create results, it will also be simpler to tap
outstanding talent from a larger pool.

Improved Team Collaboration

The internet has enabled productive and successful team collaboration. As nothing needs to
be delayed because of having teams in separate places, this has helped to increase the quality
of outcomes that may be produced from any given team. This is particularly true for
companies with several operational bases and staff members in each location. Whenever a
situation arises that calls for collaboration, it is feasible to accomplish so quickly and
effectively by simply connecting online.

Communication Skills

When the Internet gave rise to new communication methods, the way in which a business
could connect with its colleagues, customers, and workers drastically altered. Instant chat and
email have transformed corporate communication

Negative outcomes
Reduced client loyalty, increased price competition, and enhanced online pricing
transparency are some of the detrimental outcomes.
Obsolescence
Numerous employment have also been lost as a result of automation on the Internet. There is
less need for a huge work force as firms use the Internet to streamline and simplify their
processes. Sometimes it is thought unnecessary to involve a human when an automated web
system can organize data or respond to client inquiries.
New competitors

The Internet also introduces fresh rivals to several industries of business. Everybody has the
option to sell their goods or services online through a wide range of marketplaces, bringing
literally millions of new businesses to the global economy. These new internet merchants
provide a challenge for established firms that must keep clients or risk going out of business.
Additionally, geographic limitations are eliminated via the Internet. Products may now be
obtained from anywhere, so going local is no longer the sole option. Instead of being
constrained by a local or regional market, smaller firms may expand their consumer bases to
everyone with Internet access by simply building a website.

Security

Security and confidentiality issues become crucial considerations for any internet business.
Millions of dollars are spent annually on security measures to guarantee the security of
transactions and the comfort of customers making purchases online. Beyond routine business
transactions, serious security concerns like hackers, viruses, and e-terrorism make it more
expensive to maintain security online than it is elsewhere. Customers begin to doubt the
security of conducting business online as a result of security breaches, such as the widely
reported loss of credit card information on many occasions. This can affect company by
educing trust levels.\

4.2.2 The limitations of the internet in business environment in Harare

The participants shared the following information on the limitations of the internet in
business environment.

Lack of Personal Touch: The personal touch is missing from e-business. The product is not
touchable or haptic. Therefore, it is challenging for customers to evaluate a product's quality.
Additionally, there is a lack of the personal touch. The salesman comes into contact with us
in the conventional model. This gives it some credence and compassion. Additionally, it
increases client trust. Such features are constantly lost in an e-Business paradigm.

Delivery Time: It takes time for the merchandise to be delivered. In a typical firm, you
receive the product right away after purchasing it. But with internet commerce, that is not the
case. This delay frequently turns away clients. E-commerce companies are making very short
delivery promises in an effort to address these problems.

Security Concerns: Many people commit fraud through internet commerce. Additionally,
hackers can more easily obtain your financial information. It has some integrity and security
problems. Potential clients become distrustful as a result of this.

4.2.3 The internet applications which can be used in building solid business in Harare

Email

Email is formally known as electronic mail. If email is to be regarded simply, it refers to a

communication delivered electronically. Today, individuals utilize email to deliver messages
to people, as opposed to the time-consuming practice of sending notes through the mailman
in the past. You may send emails in a matter of seconds to anybody using email, and you can
also receive emails from anyone. To send or receive emails, all you need is an internet
connection. Text messages, software files, spreadsheets, photographs, videos, and other
items may all be sent to anybody using email. The majority of email users are business
people.

Google Meet

Another online video chat tool is Google Meet, which was introduced on March 9 by the
Googler corporation. You may have online meetings, take online courses, pay kid tuition
online, or just communicate to anyone in a regular way using Google Meet. However, online
meetings and online instruction are the main uses of Google Meet. Google Meet has a ton of
tools that are quite helpful for doing online meetings.

Skype

Skype Technologies is the company behind the telecommunications program Skype. A VoIP-
based program is Skype. Voice-over-Internet Protocol is known as VoIP. Skype allows you
to make phone conversations, send messages, send files, and more. A widely used
videoconferencing tool is Skype.

Zoom

The Zoom Video Communications firm introduced Zoom on October 12, 2011, a proprietary
video telephony Internet application. You can chat to anybody normally using Zoom,
organize online meetings, take online lessons, pay children's tuition online, and more. Zoom
is mostly utilized though for online learning and webinars. Zoom provides both free and
premium plans, so you may use it for free with certain restrictions. For example, the free plan
only allows for 100 users at a time.

Messenger

Another web application created by the Meta firm is Messenger. Through messenger, you
may communicate with anyone via phone and video calls as well as send them text messages,
images, videos, audio files, and documents.

WhatsApp

The Meta business created the social messaging website program known as WhatsApp.
Millions of people use WhatsApp now, making it one of the most widely utilized messaging
services. An Individual may communicate with anybody via audio and video calls and text
messages with WhatsApp. An individual can also share photographs, documents, and your
current location with anyone using WhatsApp.

4.2.3 The factors that can lead to the good use of internet in the business environment

Rise of Telecommuting
Nowadays, a lot of companies let their workers use company-provided office supplies while
working from home. A firm may lower its overhead expenses by utilizing this method,
known as telecommuting, because it requires less office space and less energy to run on a
daily basis.

Making Use of Digital Advertising

When the Internet is taken into account, a company's potential to draw clients from all four
corners of the world can be increased. A company may have a presence on the web and
connect with millions of prospective clients thanks to websites, ad placement, and search
engine optimization, or SEO.

Collaborating with Other Businesses

Utilizing the Internet makes it easier to collaborate with businesses and experts. Webinars,
also known as internet seminars, enable working on projects with individuals across the globe
as simple as going into a website.

Using the internet for Research

Businesses utilize the Internet to look for new product ideas, product creation techniques, and
price data. A firm can investigate its rivals to learn what goods and services they provide. The
Internet may be used to investigate the population, its requirements, and what goods and
services will sell best in that region if a business is trying to expand into that area.

4.3 Chapter Summary

The findings and interpretations of the data gathered in this chapter were presented and
discussed with the goal of meeting the study's objectives. According to this study more
participants understood the impact of internet on the business environment. The conclusions
and recommendations presented in the next and final chapters of this study are shaped by
these findings.

CHAPTER 5 : RECOMMENDATIONS AND CONCLUSION

5.0 Conclusion
The Internet had a significant influence on our organizations even before the demand for
remote work began. Businesses had to run on their own twenty years ago or more. Opening a
business, drawing clients in, running ads in the newspaper, on the radio, and on television,
etc. All of that has altered in the modern era. The environment in which we operate has
drastically altered, despite the fact that the business's primary goal has not changed. So read
this if you're interested in finding out how the internet affects our company and how to make
the most of it. The business landscape has evolved, but so too has how we run our businesses
thanks to the internet. Every component has drastically changed from a decade ago.

Harare's workplaces are digitalized, and owing to the internet, workers can do their jobs from
the convenience of their homes. Every tool that organizations currently use and will use in the
future incorporates the Internet. The internet is the primary source of all present and future
ideas, technology, and business models since nothing would function without it. Businesses
and consumers may access platforms for communications, trade, education, and
entertainment through the Internet. With the aid of internet technology, company owners,
executives, and organizations are now investing in digital marketing, business automation,
remote recruiting, e-commerce, and online collaboration tools in an effort to speed up
innovation and excellence in day-to-day operations. Priorities, expectations, wants, and
fashion preferences of customers are evolving.

Customers are increasingly connected to educational platforms and material, which explains
why. The judgments and priorities of customers, consumers, businesses, and robots (artificial
intelligence applications) are also changing as a result of the availability and increased speed
of information, expertise, and views. Because of this, there are both beneficial and bad effects
of the internet on business. Participants claim that the internet makes doing business
internationally easier than it used to be. For established companies and new ventures with
direct consumer contacts, the Internet has brought possibilities and obstacles. Some
middlemen in the supply chain have developed, while others have been replaced. According
to new business models that have arisen, firms may now employ technology to gain a
competitive edge and increase their revenue (Gay et al., 2009).

5.1 Recommendations
 In order to be competitive, the SME’s in Harare needs to employ new technologies to
provide low-cost consumer behavior exploration, build strong ties with customers, and
 foster loyalty. Along with new product categories, there are also new rivals, markets,
research techniques, and other factors that encourage business owners to constantly be
inventive, competitive, and creative.
 The companies may develop or strengthen their competitive advantage over the Internet.
This advantage should be founded on actual facts, be distinct from what rivals are
offering, and be significant to potential consumers. Anyone can locate what they need on
the Internet since it is quick, effective, and packed with resources.
 A corporation gains prestige by having an internet presence, which also increases brand
recognition and potential clients' trust in the product or service being offered. A lack of an
online presence gives buyers the impression that they are doing business with a small,
underfunded firm, which makes them hesitant to buy the goods, according to this study.
 Any modern company, regardless of size, without an internet presence is either a local
company with limited potential for expansion, or a basic operation with limited
perspective in time and space. Information technology has evolved from being a
corporate extension to being the primary factor behind change.
 Companies in a variety of industries (banking, entertainment, telecommunications,
distribution) adapt their business practices to capitalize on the potential of the newest
technology. A new, electronic-based global economy has wide open technological
horizons. However, the quick dissemination of information is not the only foundation of
internet enterprises. There is also a foundation for continuous change, which by definition
calls for ongoing innovation and development. In order to compete, SME’s must innovate
more quickly than our rival who is making the same effort.

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