There’s a new definition for information overload – it’s what happens when you look around for ecommerce advice.
Unfortunately, much of it is prepared outside our State and is aimed at selling you a product or service.
In developing its online Electronic Commerce Centre, WA’s Department of Commerce and Trade has resolutely taken an “independent” approach to providing information or advice that is relevant to WA’s business community.
Its easy-to-read Guides to Electronic Commerce, information on Internet buying and selling, and managing security and privacy issues can be found at www.ecc.online.wa.gov.au
The six ecommerce guides outline technology options beyond the Internet and offer help on setting up a website or investigating the online advantage. The possibilities of electronic bill paying, smart cards, call centres and other elements of ecommerce are laid out.
Printed copies of the guides are available by calling 9481 2525 (freecall from the country 1800 199 251), or email gatewaywa@commerce.wa.gov.au
Up-to-date information on privacy and security issues can be accessed at the Electronic Commerce Centre under the category, Standards and Best Practice
The WA Government is also taking steps to protect public sector computer systems from hackers and ensure privacy for businesses and citizens dealing with government. It recently adopted A Security Management Framework for Online Services jointly developed by Commerce and Trade and the Department of Contract and Management Services.
Written from a business perspective, the framework document outlines basic tools for security management which are equally useful to enterprises involved in ecommerce.
Copies of the document are available online from the Electronic Commerce Centre, as well as in printed form from the department.
* Richard Muirhead is CEO of the Department of Commerce and Trade