Consider two medium record shops of equal size - one who participates in B2B - ‘Bettadiscs’, the other doesn’t - ‘Simplydiscs’.

Bettadiscs had some initial work to do in setting up the business to cater for B2B. A computer system and an internet connection were required together with a package that would enable them to track the stock movement within the store. Decisions had to be made as to who their supplier would be. Additionally, the staff had to be trained in the use of the system. Eventually the computer system was used to access the supplier’s database, browse the online catalogues and make purchases.

Simplydiscs went through a different startup process. A similar choice needed to be made as to which supplier to use and the outcome of this was a visit from a company rep. armed with a library of catalogues from which the choice of stock was to be made. There was some work to do in keeping manual paperwork which tracked the stock coming in and leaving the shop but after numerous telephone conversations and setting up of standing orders, goods were delivered and payment was made.

At the end of the day:-

* Bettadisc customers will have immediate responses to their enquiries because of the availability of the computer; there is less chance of a CD becoming out of stock, because the computer will automatically mark it for re-order.

* Simplydisc customers won’t get a quick response because a phone-call may have to be made which may or may not produce the desired result; items may become out-of-stock due to an oversight.

Where would you rather shop??