Other possible problems, including psychological and physical health-related effects of sedentary, computer-anchored work environments, have not been fully examined. Early experience suggests that as this type of work (and social) activity expands, businesses and government will have to consider broad-based means to offset health hazards with new policies and treatments.

On the whole, e-commerce may offer the potential for shifting the balance of opportunity, wealth, and social and political inclusion. As much as these trends can be beneficial to the majority of rural community, they are also likely to bring unanticipated effects on cultural and social norms. Indigenous traditions that have so far survived the intrusion of modernity may be less resilient in the face of global networks and instantaneous communication. These types of impact are just as significant as changes in bottom-line incomes, and can really only be "measured" by the persons whose lives are being changed by forces largely beyond their control.

Development of Market Access & Business Opportunities

E-commerce is in its infancy, and as such requires special attention and perhaps even temporary policy measures to ensure that it is nurtured and allowed to develop its full potential. The exploitation of its potential to transform a developing economy can be measured in terms of factors such as the development of SMMEs and participation in the global economy.

Supporting SMMEs

Electronic commerce opportunities are valuable for giant corporations and small entrepreneurs alike. In the latter case, however, the technologies and market options available through e-commerce may foster a true revolution in the way business structures and relationships are organized. The prospect of establishing new small, medium, and micro enterprises (SMMEs) is greatly enhanced by the efficiencies available through information and communications technologies.

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* Contributed by: -
Sambit Kumar Mishra & Ashok Kumar Chandra,
Ph.D. Scholars,
Institute of Management,
Pt. Ravishankar Shukla University, Raipur.