A Michigan Jobs & Career Portal service. 

E-COMMERCE (Electronic Commerce) MANAGERS plan and execute a company's overall agenda for selling products/services directly to on-line customers or for conducting business to business transactions on an Internet's web site. E-Commerce Managers also provide leadership for the web site development staff and coordination between the company's internal departments and web development staff.

A Glossary of Terms is contained in a section that follows and should be referred to for clarity.

NATURE OF THE OCCUPATION

E-Commerce Managers may:

Establish entrepreneurial goals for the company's electronic commerce considering what type of web site would increase sales and reduce distribution and other costs, and reduce time and labor involved in the supply chain from the manufacturer to the customer

Confer and negotiate with managers from various internal departments such as marketing, billing, product development, information systems and purchasing to develop and promote the smooth transition to Internet commerce

Determine type of electronic money transaction(s) that the web site will use, such as credit card, debit card or PC-based digital cash, applying knowledge of encryption and Internet protocols, amount and kind of transactions expected

Select service providers who might provide tracking and reporting of web site transaction processing, and secure electronic catalogs of items to be sold, tax calculation or mail delivery services based on knowledge of established criteria for software vendor selection

Attend software provider (vendor) seminars

Determine arrangement of catalogs of product information to be viewed on the various "links" on the web site, based on core knowledge of business interaction, billing procedures, and marketing concerns

Determine security methods such as digital signatures or encryption, firewalls, or virtual private networks that might be used to protect business to business or business to customer transactions

Purchase encryption software or software services from consulting firms, using knowledge of licensing software, standards for electronic data interchange, and business goals

Lead and coordinate projects with internal staff, customers, and selected business partners to implement systems for electronic purchasing, order fulfillment and information support

Manage the web site and the company's computer systems to update records, specifications and operating procedures, as well as supervise web developers, systems analysts, and other employees

Prepare reports on the economic transactions of the web site for top management, accounting for expenditures and income producing transactions

Define and implement electronic business strategies that reduce costs and increase on-line sales of the business, applying skills in project management, process re-engineering and knowledge of customer information database, service order systems, and automated service and purchasing systems.

The tools and equipment used may include:

GLOSSARY OF TERMS

Bandwidth: Measured in "bits" of data per second, this is the amount of data that can be carried by a communications link, such as a telephone link. Higher bandwidth allows faster transmission of data, just as a 4 lane expressway carries more traffic than a 2 lane road.

Bot: A shopping robot (computer program) that searches the Internet's web sites for the best prices on a specific product/service for the consumer.

Certification authorities and digital certificates (see digital signatures definition below).

Digital cash : Also referred to as electronic cash, electronic money or digital money. Digital cash is a system of purchasing cash credits, storing the credits in your computer, and then spending them when making electronic purchases over the Internet.

Digital Signature: Essential for business to business transactions, this technology uses mathematical formulas (algorithms) to create complementary pairs of numbers, called encryption keys. One of the two keys may be published in a directory (public key), while the other might lie hidden in scrambled form on a user's computer. To make sure that the computer user knows that the digital signature hasn't been altered, there are organizations called certification authorities that can certify the identity of a person. Similar to the concept of a notary, they provide seals of approval called digital certificates. Digital certificates are usually issued in different classes, each class being associated with a different level of security.

DNS or Domain Name System: The Internet's database system for linking Internet host names (used by people) with Internet Protocol Addresses (used by computers).

EDI: This is short for Electronic Data Interchange. EDI is the transfer of business information from one company to another. These may be sent directly from one company to another, or via the use of a Value Added Network.

EFT : This is an acronym for electronic funds transfer. It is used to transfer money between different accounts or banks.

Encryption: Encryption refers to changing information so that it cannot be read for security or privacy reasons. Decryption is the process of changing cipher text into readable text.

Extranet : That part of a business's internal computer network which is available to customers or business partners.

Firewall: A type of security measure used to allow only specific kinds of messages from the Internet to get into company networks. It protects a company's system from hackers.

Host: A computer connected to a network that can send or receive requests for network services.

Intranet: A Local Area Network (LAN) that functions to assist employees with internal business procedures. It may or may not be connected to the Internet.

Legacy Systems : Older computer systems that must be integrated with newer software/hardware.

Middleware: Also called application-integration software, this software combines the functions of a business, regardless of their locations.

Platform: A platform consists of an operating system and a microprocessor (microchip) in the computer. E-Commerce Managers typically choose between the three operating systems of Unix, Macintosh and Windows NT for their Web Server platforms. Web server platforms can be different than network operating systems. E-Commerce Managers must pick the best overall system with their corporation's needs in mind.

Protocols: Protocols are sets of rules that enable computers to "talk" to each other, especially when information is exchanged between networked systems. HTTP is the Internet's protocol. FTP (File Transfer Protocol) is a set of rules, or the program itself, for transferring files between two computers on the Internet. TCP/IP (Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol) is the description of any network using two of the most common Internet protocols. PPP is Point-to-Point Protocol. It defines the connection of one host to another over a telephone line and connection to network resources. POP and SMTP are electronic mail protocols. OTP or Open Trading Protocol is a common language for software electronic "wallets."

Router: A host that is connected to at least two networks and forwards from one network to another.

Security Protocols such as Secure Sockets Layer (SSL), Secure Electronics Transaction (SET) and Secure Hypertext Transfer Protocol (S-HTTP): These are features in popular browser software that can recognize digital signatures (see definition above) or are protocols used to protect the security of private data on the Internet. This approach is called SSL or secure sockets layer. It is commonly used on the Internet. SET or Secure Electronics Transaction is a system to improve defects in SSL which was proposed by major credit card companies. Each customer required an electronic "wallet" on his own computer with an encrypted credit card number. Since the credit card number is never passed to the merchant server, the server could never provide stored credit card numbers to hackers. S-HTTP adds security directly to the software application. All of these protocols can operate at different levels and can be used together.

Server: A computer connected to a network that offers services to other connected systems on the network.

Smart card: A smart card is a plastic card with an embedded microchip that can be loaded with data, used for electronic cash payments, telephone calling, and other applications.

VAN: A Value Added Network is a network that receives, stores and routes electronic messages.

There are two kinds of E-Commerce. One is the business to customer such as Amazon.com or Ebay.com. The second is business to business and is much more significant in volume and monetary value. Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) occurs when business trading partners exchange information. EDI is the most significant E-Commerce now, with millions of transactions behind the scenes everyday. It is the use of E-Commerce for corporate to corporate systems integration for business transactions.

OCCUPATIONAL SPECIALTIES

The responsibilities of the E-Commerce Manager may vary depending on the size of the firm. E-Commerce Managers who work for large firms may be in charge of a large information technology department and may interact with higher level executives. They may also work with legacy systems, as well as new E-Commerce methods. E-Commerce Managers working for smaller firms typically have responsibility for another company department, such as network management. They may be responsible for all the computer activities of a smaller corporation. Often a senior management title such as Vice President is used. Those who handle E-Commerce activities may not be called E-Commerce Managers.

169.167-030 DATA PROCESSING MANAGER

186.167-086 FINANCE MANAGER

163.167-018 SALES MANAGER

169.167-082 COMPUTER OPERATIONS MANAGER

Some other titles include MIS/IS (Manager of Information Systems or Information Systems) Manager; Network Manager; and EDI (Electronic Data Interchange) Manager.

In addition to learning about this occupation, you may find it helpful to explore the following CEscripts:

WORKING CONDITIONS AND REQUIREMENTS

E-Commerce Managers work in pleasant offices which are well-lighted and ventilated. Some of the work is done at a computer screen using a keyboard. The hours are long and managers typically do not receive overtime pay. Some may work at home or travel as a consultant to out-of-town locations. This is a high stress job because it demands technological know-how and business savvy. One of the pressures of the job is keeping up with changing business models: in the industry software, service providers and new encryption technologies. E-Commerce Managers frequently attend seminars to keep up with changing technology as well as enroll their staff in continuing education courses to keep current. Often the seminars are provided by their business trading partners.

Not all E-Commerce Managers are "techie" types. In fact, many companies are growing their own strategic management types, often from the purchasing, ordering or marketing departments. The ability to convert business strategy to technology applications is of critical importance. The business must be understood including its strategic objectives and the system users.

A company is a continuum of information. Consumers create information on the company web site through orders. Those orders need to be converted into action generating information for the production department, purchasing department, suppliers and other vendors. Rolling information over and out to trading partners behind the scenes is as important in terms of response as the impression created by the web site. This is where the company ensures that the customer comes back for more and it is the delivery of what the customer wants.

E-Commerce Managers must be able to present strategic issues clearly to upper management, and to explain the advantages or disadvantages of technological purchases, hiring of service providers, and redesign of corporate departments to take advantage of E-Commerce. They also must provide effective leadership to their web development staff which may include programmers, systems analysts, web developers, or LAN administrators. About half of all E-Commerce Managers are expected to manage the company's web site themselves.

E-Commerce Managers must have core knowledge of the business to be able to present relevant information on the web site. Creative entrepreneurial thinking and not being afraid to take risks are essential to successful E-Commerce Managers, because this industry has so many paradigm shifts in the way business is done on the Net. No one could have predicted the advent of on-line auctions, or "bots" (computer programs that search the Internet for the lowest priced items. That is why E-Commerce Managers must be very adaptable to change and must think "out of the box" or think differently than using business models from years past. E-Commerce Managers are at the forefront of retailing innovation and technological change.

E-Commerce Managers may join professional organizations such as the Association for Computing Machinery. Members typically pay annual dues.

If you are interested in becoming an E-Commerce Manager:

You should prefer:

• Activities which require creative imagination and a high degree of risk

• Activities of a scientific and technical nature

• Activities which require self-motivation

• Activities relating to processes, machines, and methods

You should be able to:

• Plan, direct and control an entire activity and the activities of others

• Think logically in a clear and organized manner

• Perform a variety of duties which may change frequently

• Work within precise limits or standards of accuracy

• Use step by step procedures to analyze and solve problems

• Understand and use high level mathematics

• Communicate effectively in speech and in writing

• Rate information effectively using personal judgment or standards

EDUCATION AND PREPARATION OPPORTUNITIES

NOTE: A Bachelor's degree (four years of study beyond high school) or a Master's Degree (five to six years) or a Professional Degree or Doctorate (seven to ten years) may qualify a person for this occupation.

The following high school course opportunities are helpful in preparing for occupations in the CEscript:

***SCHOOL SUBJECTS***

0600 BUSINESS , 0700 CAREERS , 0900 COMMUNICATIONS , 1000 COMPUTERS , 1100 ECONOMICS , 1200 ELECTRONICS , 2200 MATH , 3300 TECHNOLOGY

***VOCATIONAL EDUCATION PROGRAMS***

There are no Vocational Education Programs related to this CEscript.

***POSTSECONDARY PROGRAMS***

040 DATA PROCESSING

215 COMPUTER INFORMATION SYSTEMS

Programs in Computer Information Systems provide opportunities to gain the knowledge and skills necessary for employment in information systems and management positions. Information systems involve the entire spectrum of organizational activities, technology, and people. Information systems support an organization's operations, management, and decision-making functions. Individuals who teach at the secondary school level must have a Michigan Teaching Certificate.

Courses vary from school to school but may include:

  Search for a College and/or Instructional Program

***APPRENTICESHIP OPPORTUNITIES***

There are no apprenticeship programs related to this CEscript.

***MILITARY TRAINING PROGRAMS***

Please check the Military web site at http://www.myfuture.com.

COMPUTER SYSTEMS OFFICERS

The military uses computers in almost every aspect of its operations. Military computers are used to process payroll and personnel information, control the targeting and firing of weapons systems, account for money, and make it easier to communicate around the world. Computer systems officers direct the operations of computer centers and are involved in the planning and development of computer systems.

What They Do

Computer systems officers in the military perform some or all of the following duties:

• Prepare data processing plans and budgets

• Develop and monitor contracts for data processing equipment and services

• Translate military objectives and needs into computer systems requirements

• Design and maintain computer software and data bases

• Plan and oversee the installation of new equipment

• Direct teams of computer systems specialists and computer programmers

Helpful Attributes

Helpful attributes include:

• Interest in working with computers

• Interest in working with mathematical models and formulas

• Interest in technical work

Work Environment

Computer systems officers in the military work in offices or at computer sites on military bases or aboard ships.

Civilian Counterparts

Civilian computer systems officers work for a wide variety of employers, such as banks, hospitals, manufacturers, financial firms, government agencies and firms that design and test computer systems. They perform duties similar to those performed by military computer systems officers. They may also be called information systems directors, ADP or EDP managers, computer systems engineers, software engineers, or systems analysts.

Opportunities

The services have about 3,500 computer systems officers. On average, they need 150 new computer systems officers each year. After job training, computer systems officers are assigned to units where they work in teams of engineers, systems analysts, and computer programmers. With experience and demonstrated leadership, they may advance to senior management or command positions in the computer systems field.

Some universities offer courses in E-Commerce, but thus far only a few, such as the University of Denver, offer a program in E-Commerce. Most often E-Commerce courses are under the "umbrella" of a Master's degree in Information Systems or Business. In other words, you may not be allowed to take a specific course in E-Commerce, but may have to complete a whole graduate program for a Master's degree in Business or Information Systems.

Of those who have college degrees, one-third of the E-Commerce Managers have a degree unrelated to computer sciences or business. While the most frequent major is computer science, the remainder majored in accounting, finance or engineering. About 15% have a general business major or an MBA.

Some E-Commerce Managers have associate's degrees plus business/computer experience. Many have graduate degrees. The following universities and colleges offer E-Commerce courses:

New York University

School of Continuing and Professional Studies

70 Washington Square South

New York, N.Y. 10012-1019

1-212-998-7200

1-888-998-7204 (toll-free)

University of Texas at Austin Department of Management Science and Information Systems

Graduate School of Business

Austin, Texas 78712-1175

1-512-471-5921

University of Michigan-Business School(courses must be taken as part of MBA Program)

701 Tappan St.

Ann Arbor, MI 48109-1234

Admissions office:

1-734-764-1817

Southern Methodist University

Cox School of Business

Dallas, TX 75275

California State University

College of Business Administration

Center for High Technology Management

San Marcos, CA 92096-0001

1-760-750-4775

Denver University-Daniels School of Business

Department of Information Technology and Electronic Commerce

S. Race Street

Denver, CO

Contact: Don McCubbrey

1-303-871-2014

American University

Kogod College of Business Administration

Program in Mgt. Of Global Information Technology

(Graduate Program)

4400 Massachusetts Ave. N.W.

Washington, D.C. 20016-8001

1-202-885-3120

University of California at Berkeley

Haas School of Business (part of MBA program)

Berkeley, CA 94720

1-510-642-1405

Some colleges offering on-line certificate programs in e-commerce are the University of Maryland in cooperation with Rutgers, as well as Vanderbilt, Harvard, Duke, MIT and Stanford.

The Association for Electronic Commerce Professionals, Inc. certifies EDI Managers at several levels. Some associate certifications are for technical roles, others for those who have completed a bachelor's degree at a recognized, qualified school and completed 2-5 years experience.

Some firms also offer certifications. Microsoft, Novell and Cisco, Inc. have certification programs for IT or Information Technology Professionals. Employers are more likely to hire a manager who has certification.

OPPORTUNITIES FOR EXPERIENCE AND METHODS OF ENTRY

In small companies, the E-Commerce position is often filled by someone whose position has not changed but whose duties have expanded to include management of electronic commerce. In large and medium sized companies a person is typically brought in from outside the company or from another area in the company to fill the job. Internship programs and cooperative work/study programs may be available through colleges or universities.

School-to-Work opportunities include:

information apprenticeships

mentorships

job shadowing experiences

tour a company that has a E-Commerce Manager on staff

internships

volunteer work with Local E-Commerce Manager

community service work with an agency.

Experience may be gained by postsecondary cooperative education or internship programs offered by universities and corporate or government employers. Opportunities for experience are also available through training programs offered by E-Commerce vendors.

Both formal and informal methods should be used to locate job openings in this profession. Formal methods include direct application to employers, as well as locating ads in newspapers, Trade and professional journals and on line electronic computer services. Openings are also found through school placement offices, private employment agencies, civil service offices and Michigan Works! offices as well as more informal methods such as informational interviewing and membership in professional or student associations  Job seekers should access the Internet's on-line employment service sites and enter an electronic resume on sites such as:

Michigan Talent Bank

America's Job Bank

Classifieds Employment

Yahoo!hotjobs

MONSTER.COM

FlipDog.com

Spherion Jobs

Dice

Net-Temps 

VAULT

emoonlighter

ComputerJobs.com

valleyjobs.com

CareerEngine

USAJOBS - United States Office of Personnel Management

NationJob.com 

TrueCareers

CareerBuilder

MONSTERTRAK.COM

JobOptions

guru

CareerCity 

You should also enter an electronic resume on these on-line services.

EARNINGS AND ADVANCEMENT

Nationally, the annual salaries of E-Commerce Managers in 2003 were:

According to a 2003 survey of the Great Lakes States, including Michigan, E-Commerce Managers received an average annual salary of $74,700 plus a bonus of $12,400.  Other managerial classifications such a Web Content Managers, Producers, and Executives received salaries similar to the above national salaries. 

Most E-Commerce Managers receive fringe benefits such as paid vacations, holidays and sick leave; life health, accident and disability insurance; retirement and educational reimbursement plans; and stock purchase savings plans. Benefits are usually paid for, at least in part, by employers.

EMPLOYMENT AND OUTLOOK

The exact number of E-Commerce Managers in the United States is unknown. However, because of the rapid growth of the Internet and corporate networks, the number of these jobs may be increasing. The technological improvements coming with the phenomenal growth of the Internet are enabling buyers to quickly and easily compare products and prices, putting them in a better bargaining position.  Web auction houses like Ebay and new auction technologies have been developed. Large retailers and brand-name companies have developed on-line web sites for Internet shoppers. While the business to customer (B2C) side of E-Commerce receives a lot of press, in reality the business to business (B2B) side of E-Commerce accounts for many more transactions and sales. E-commerce Managers will be involved with new technologies such as RFID (radio-frequency identification) which is bar coding plus a wireless feedback system on products that can be tracked from the manufacturing plant to the store and also include information on returns. In addition, E-commerce Managers will determine expenditures on various types of software options for software systems for integration, financial accounting, and document-management. Technical knowledge of Enterprise Resource Planning Software (ERP) and the languages and protocols related to wireless web sites such as Extensible Markup Language (XML) or Wireless Application Protocols (WAP), RDIF, SAP, and Oracle systems will continue to be important for E-commerce Managers.

The employment of E-commerce Managers will be negatively affected by the trend towards outsourcing of information technology tasks to foreign countries. Outsourcing has become popular with large corporations and increasingly with mid-size and smaller companies. 

SOURCES OF ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Printed Occupational information is available upon written request from sources below: