The research I have conducted during phase 1 and 2 of my PAT looks at how the online sales industry has changed the way we buy and sell products compared to the traditional in-person shopping. To better understand this, I explored the main differences between physical and online sales, how companies make use of technology to improve efficiency and incorporate safety measures to protect customers' private information when shopping online. I also looked into how businesses use social media algorithms to target specific audiences and how technological advancements, like ERP systems and warehouse robots, help in making the online shopping experience faster and more accurate.
Through my research and the questionnaire results, I have found that online sales rely heavily on technology for things like real-time tracking, inventory management, and having secure online transactions. Safety systems such as encryption, two-factor authentication, and the use of biometrics have made the online shopping process safer for both buyers and sellers. In South Africa, there are many limiting factors that make it difficult for users to buy things online, but businesses are coming up with creative and innovative ideas to fix this problem. Some of these solutions include zero-rated websites and loyalty programs to reward users with free data or cashback options.
Overall, this study shows that the growth of online sales depends on three major factors: secure systems that build trust with users, smart use of technology to manage all logistic aspects, and innovative marketing strategies that meet the needs of South African users.