What does C-Commerce mean?
The C in C-Commerce is the abbreviation of “collaborative”, comes from English and means cooperation.
C-Commerce describes the cooperation between different companies to achieve a common goal. In order to make it possible for this group to work together, it needs a common interface. As a rule, Enterprise Relationship software (ERP) simplifies the interaction of the individual companies. As a rule, Enterprise Relationship (ERP) software simplifies the interaction between individual companies. With the help of such software, each member of the community can find out when they have what to do. There are different software solutions depending on the industry, size and complexity.
What prerequisites must be met for C-Commerce to function efficiently?
The process must be well organized for the cooperation of different trading companies to be successful. It must be clarified which work processes are to be carried out by whom and how. It must also be discussed what happens if a link in the chain cannot or has not fulfilled its obligations. Comprehensive communication is therefore important in advance, but also in daily cooperation. In addition, it must be explained how sensitive data is to be handled. The topic of data security is a point that must be treated with particular sensitivity. These are just a few of the requirements that can guarantee a trouble-free process. Depending on complexity, sector, etc., further requirements may be added.
How can such a cooperation in C-Commerce look like?
An example of how such a process in C-Commerce can take place is described below using an ordering process at Amazon. A customer places an order with Amazon and also pays directly here. Amazon then informs the retailer of the purchase.
We assume that the retailer has not stored his goods at Amazon, but makes them available in an external warehouse. The process from the Amazon customer’s shopping basket to the delivery of the product to the customer should be completed as quickly as possible. This is why an automated process is required.
The retailer is informed via Amazon Seller Central that an order has been received. This forwards the information to its ERP software. The warehouse receives the information to select and pack the goods. At the same time, the logistics company receives notification when the parcel is ready for collection. The ordered product is now sent directly to the buyer.
Since customer communication takes place via Amazon, the online shop must also be notified as soon as the delivery is on its way. In the best case, the customer is also given the opportunity to track his shipment.