its process allowed for fewer items to be put in the wrong locations in its distribution centers thereby shipping 35% more units with the same number of people, which cut fulfillment expenses by $22 million, or 17%, from 1999 to 20003. Amazon also utilizes its information systems to place advertising banners at their partners sites like Yahoo, Altavista, etc. When a potential customer searches for a topic, an advertising banner appears alongside the results of the search. When the potential customer clicks on the banner, the books related to the search appear at no additional cost to the customer. The advantage to Amazon is that they get the potential customer to their Web site, which is probably the most valuable tool as it is the customers first interface with the company. The following outlines Amazons Web site.The home page is arranged in a simple, easy-to-use fashion and presents a variety of products and information of topical or current-event interest. When a repeat customer visits this site, they are greeted by name as well as receive recommendations specifically tailored to their needs/wants. The primary feature of the Amazon.com Web site is its interactive, searchable catalog of millions of titles. Amazon provides a selection of search tools to find books and other products based on title, subject, author, keyword, publication date or ISBN as well as more complex and precise search tools.Amazon.coms Web page also offers numerous forms of reviews and content to aid customers in their search, enhance their shopping experience, and encourage purchases. These are in the form of book cover images, synopses, author interviews, and reviews by authors and other readers.Availability and delivery options also play an important role on the Web site. Many of the titles are available for shipment within 24 hours, with others available within 48 to 72 hours and customers may select from a variety of delivery options. In addition, once the ...
