Can E-Commerce Measure Globalization?

Abstract:

Globalisation has recently become one of the terms most frequently used in politics, sociology, culture, and especially in economy. In international discourses both official and non-official in the context of the ‘interdependence’ of economies and nations. The word ‘globalisation’ has evolved over time, but it has assumed more prominence since the end of the cold war and rapid liberation of emerging economies. Globalisation itself is not a new phenomenon, as numerous processes of aspiration towards the cooperation and rapprochement of countries and continents have been recorded in history. The technological basis of the modern globalisation includes the latest accomplishments of the third technological revolution: telecommunication systems, the scientific revolution, new forms of transport, the Internet and E-Commerce, because all of these technical-technological factors have facilitated unhindered communication of knowledge, people, information and capital among the countries worldwide. The question to be asked is how can a country measure its involvement in globalisation. One way is by using E-Commerce drivers and barriers.
There are many issues that could count as drivers and barriers to E-Commerce, Globalisation and economic development at the same time. These issues are cost, payment systems, legislation and regulation, infrastructure, culture and religion, government, employment, competition, traditional business, economic activities, knowledge of E-Commerce, time and Information. By examining the E-Commerce drivers and barriers of a country which will depend upon the level of technological involvement with E-Commerce and its effect on a particular economy could result in Globalisation readiness in the country. Once these issues play a greater driver roles then barrier role, then one could state that a country is less-technologically advanced or a technologically advanced. The reason for the classification is that if a country is managing to adopt E-Commerce and affecting economic activities which will result in Globalisation adoption, the government will have dealt with all infrastructure issues, payments system issues, regulation, etc. e.g. if a country has adopted E-Commerce and managed to reduce costs more then the cost of establishing E-Commerce then the economy would be more developed than previously. For digital classification the level of engagement could be measured by the level of Internet involvement in the economy could measure the level of engagement. This measurement could be used to indicate the extent of globalisation in a country’s economy. Globalisation is a result of removing barriers and restrictions to international trade and adopting free economic policy, which are the same drivers for E-Commerce.