Theoretical framework and hypotheses of the study

Abstract

B2B E-marketplaces offer tools and processes, such as business rules, technology, transaction support, that help companies conduct business with other entities more effectively. What separates this new marketplace from the old can be summed up in two words: efficiency and change (Cunningham 2001, p. 9). However, these new processes and tools must also comply with existing standards of doing business and the technology must support rather than impair those standards. The key to success is the appropriate fit between the given circumstances and the new methods of doing business. Not every B2B E-marketplace concept fits to every purchase situation. The purchase situation determines, which kind of relationship support is required. This has to be taken into account, when defining B2B E-marketplace concepts. Furthermore, the cornerstone of the appropriate fit is a successful project management of the introduction of the B2B E-marketplace concept.