n that was found in on an information-based Web site. Such information may be particularly useful when implementing strategic formulation, however should not be treated as sacred. Because of the limited nature in which this research is presented, it is hard to gauge its validity as a neutral and independent source. Organisation must be aware of such information's credibility, and clear of its context and meaning. Without doing so, an organisation risks initiating a strategy that is based on inaccurate information. In keeping in mind the limitations of various consumer analysis information, it should be understood that there is still a place for its use in strategic formulation and planning. Having an awareness of the varying user trends aids in strategy formulation in a number of ways. By understanding how the users of information tools such as the Web act, for example, it is possible to forecast or predict future behaviour and base strategies accordingly. Therefore user trends are an integral environmental issues that FIG 1. INTERNET USER PROFILE must be identified, in order to achieve successful marketing success. Consumer analysis Possibly the major factor in understanding the effects of E-commerce towards marketing within an organisation is the awareness of who in fact has access to such resources. By having an understanding of users of the Internet and E-commerce resources, the marketing strategy can be further advanced, and tailored in a favourable direction to the organisation. Various factors make-up the analysis of the consumer when addressing both E-commerce and the more tradition means of commerce. Ideals such as demographics and cultural influences must be identified when assessing the characteristic of any market. It is important that the users of Internet technology are identified, and the relevant consumer attributes understood. In terms of E-commerce, this aspect of the environment provides a basis for how an organisatio...
