Apple's Website Upgrade Proposal

TABLE OF CONTENTS:

Cover Sheet 1

Table of contents 2

Introduction 3

Statement of the problem 5

Purpose of study 6

Literature review 6

Questions 8

Methodology 9

Limitations and delimitations 10

Significance of study 11

References 13

Appendix 14

1.0 Introduction

We came to know the Internet in 1969 and little did we know how much it would influence the world. What started as a defence and military tool, has become today one of the most powerful communication tools which also integrated and networked our world which has become so small. We use the Internet for all our needs on a daily basis, whether it is to check the weather online, buy stocks instantly, purchase our goods being a sweater or a car, request services such as a cleaning service, or purchase an all-inclusive trip to any destination worldwide. The Internet makes a difference for us. It has reformed all industries, changing the way business is conducted today.

Apple is one example of the success that many companies have achieved due to the exponential growth and revolution of the worldwide web. Information and communication technologies (ICT) has played a big role with Apple in coping with the world wide increasing demand for iMac computers, iPhones, iPods and other Apple electronics; linking and integrating all the major players and partners within the computer and smart-product supply chain and enhancing service delivery and inter-work processes.

In addition to that, Information Communication Technologies include a combination of hardware, software, telecommunications, NetWare, groupware, and human-ware, which enable the coordination and management of complex Internet, intranet and extranet information and data between Apple and the suppliers within the supply chain. This enhances the overall efficiency and provides the consumer with added quality and value they are seeking. ICTs cover the complete range of electronic tools, which facilitate the processing and flow, as well as the management of information and help provide progress for the operational and strategic management of organizations by enabling them manage their information, functions, and processes better, as well as to communicate interactively with their stakeholders to achieve their objectives and missions.

Ultimately, the industry moves at a fast pace and ICTs facilitate the management of customer information, allowing for cost effectiveness at Apple. In a world of globally fierce competition, companies are evolving towards the need of innovating, employing and aligning the most efficiently effective ICTs to achieve their marketing, financial and high quality customer service objectives - creating the value and instant satisfaction for the end-using consumer, which is of high importance. Apple is constantly growing on a global level and the virtual online demand for Apple products and/or services is increasing by the day. To deal with this industry's very rapid evolving dynamics, flexible Information Communication Technology infrastructures, facilitation, deployment, development, transformation, and synergy are crucial for Apple's success to meet the demand and rally the competition. Hence, Apple's online presence and website is vital for the business' success.

The objective behind this proposal is to address the main issue that Apple's website is not up to date and needs further enhancements to increase website visitor engagement, website hits, and sales. We will therefore evaluate the design, content, interactivity, and usability of the Apple.com website in order to give clear recommendations for improving the Apple website. I have personally selected Apple.com as I am an Apple consumer and know a great deal about the company and their products.

2.0 Statement of the Problem

It is important for this research to be conducted since a recent marketing audit within the company pointed out that the Apple website needed to be updated and enhanced to improve online sales, increase traffic, and the overall return on investment (ROI). Therefore, we will assess the content, design, interactivity, and usability of the website to draw findings, and to recommend suggested solutions for the enhancements and improvements. These four website components will be analyzed since they are extremely important for the success of Apple's website and e-commerce.

It is crucial for Apple to consider website design and the use of innovative technologies to attract customers and get them to interact and be more involved, and to give them an exceptional and unique experience when visiting Apple's website. In addition to that, the content has to be carefully selected, it has to be relevant and updated on a regular basis making sure that it is in line with customer's interests allowing them to read and get updates on what they seek and desire. The usability needs to be friendly, straightforward, and easy to use for a smooth surfing experience that will allow customers to easily browse through the website. Also, web interactivity needs to be capturing and engaging on different approaches to interact with them.

3.0 The Purpose of Study

The purpose of this study is to identify what needs to be altered and done to the Apple website to improve the current situation, attract more customers, increase sales for the company, and expand services that are displayed in a user-friendly format.

The objective behind this proposal is to address the main issue of Apple's website; the fact that it is not up to date and it lacks development. It also needs enhancements to increase website