The Internet has changed and continues to change the manner in which people conduct business. The Internet has brought the world closer together by allowing people to connect and share not only information and ideas, but also products and services.
The term “e-commerce” is used to describe the sale of goods and services where the buyer places an order, or the price and terms of the sale are negotiated, over an Internet, mobile device, Extranet, Electronic Data Interchange network, email, or other comparable online system. Payment may or may not be made online.
Today, individuals and corporations use the Internet to provide and receive goods and services through various platforms, including e-commerce websites, cloud computing and software-as-a-service (“SaaS”). In 2013, 41.3 percent of global internet users had purchased products online. In 2017, this figure is expected to grow to 46.4 percent.
While e-commerce is often associated with retail, 57% of the manufacturing market is conducted through e-commerce platforms, whereas online retail accounts for approximately 5.8% of the total U.S. retail market. The online wholesale market constitutes 26.5% of the entire U.S. wholesale market, and online services account for 3.5% of the services market in the U.S. Clearly then, business-to-business (“B2B”) transactions make up the bulk of e-commerce.
Our attorneys have been working with businesses creating and operating e-commerce platforms since the creation of e-commerce. We are experienced in working with our clients’ development of e-commerce platforms, including SaaS, cloud computing, social media, Internet marketing and distribution and on-line education. We regularly assist our clients in drafting click-through agreements, disclaimers, privacy policies and service level agreements.
Whether you are a seasoned technology company or an entrepreneur considering bringing a new piece of software to market, sound legal advice is an integral part of your success. The lawyers of the Structure Law Group, LLP are skilled and experienced business lawyers who understand the unique needs of businesses that operate through e-commerce platforms. To schedule a consultation with one of our attorneys, please call our office today at (408) 441-7500. Prospective clients can also contact our office via email by submitting our online contact form.