The best e-commerce strategy builds on the special characteristics of the Internet. The World Wide Web has expanded the reach of anyone connected to it; enabling anytime, anywhere, always transactions in the e-economy.

The successful e-business becomes the "goto" Web site for customers, needing a certain product or service. Companies must master every stage of business success: vision, system, promotion and logistics.

Companies that 'enable' customer goal achievement conquer their competition. Consumers trust those who have proven their worth.

Great firms learn from mistakes - like the "dot.com" bubble. Technology is a tool, it isn't the business. The Web is a means, tool or arena where transactions take place. It cannot replace a failed business plan.

Successful e-businesses build on successful traditional business models. They grow through "creative collaboration". Many "dot.com" failures lacked firm roots that withstood attacks.

Web surfers want to bypass bureaucracy. Logistics are necessary for success, so wise firms "hide the bureaucracy".

Businesses can reach more potential customers via the Internet. Yet, most of these consumers have divided loyalties and short attention spans.

The best e-commerce strategy builds itself gradually. It creates a "great customer experience every time". "Maintain the best, restructure the rest."

Good companies know their customers personally. They sell what people want. They support customer needs. The best firms will gain Search Engine Optimization (SEO) due to popularity.

The successful manage their businesses, anticipating problems before they occur. They innovate - unleashing creative energy - to retain customer interest. They develop and maintain an "edge" over their competition.