Free Solved Question Paper of BCS-062 : E-COMMERCE (December 2022)

1. (a) Purchasing of groceries is one of the basic shopping requirements. Explain the procedure for online grocery shopping with reference to any grocery portal. Mention its advantages and disadvantages. (10 marks)

Answer :

Online Grocery Shopping Procedure (Reference: BigBasket/Grofers/Amazon Fresh):

Step-by-Step Procedure:

1. Registration/Login:
   • Create an account or login to existing account
   • Provide delivery address and contact details
   • Verify mobile number and email
2. Product Browsing:
   • Browse categories (vegetables, fruits, dairy, etc.)
   • Use search functionality for specific items
   • Apply filters (brand, price, discount, rating)
   • Check product details, prices, and reviews
3. Shopping Cart Management:
   • Add desired items to cart with quantity
   • Review cart contents and modify if needed
   • Apply discount coupons or promotional codes
   • Check delivery charges and minimum order requirements
4. Checkout Process:
   • Select delivery time slot
   • Choose payment method (COD, UPI, Card, Wallet)
   • Review final order summary
   • Place the order and receive confirmation
5. Order Tracking and Delivery:
   • Track order status in real-time
   • Receive delivery updates via SMS/email
   • Accept delivery and verify items
   • Rate and review products/service

Advantages of Online Grocery Shopping:

• Convenience: Shop from anywhere, anytime without visiting physical stores
• Time-saving: No need to travel, park, or wait in queues
• Wide Selection: Access to extensive product range and brands
• Price Comparison: Easy to compare prices across different brands
• Deals and Discounts: Exclusive online offers and bulk purchase discounts
• Home Delivery: Products delivered to doorstep at convenient time
• Order History: Easy reordering of frequently purchased items
• No Impulse Buying: Better control over purchasing decisions

Disadvantages of Online Grocery Shopping:

• Quality Concerns: Cannot physically inspect fruits, vegetables, or perishables
• Delivery Charges: Additional cost for delivery, especially for small orders
• Delivery Delays: Possible delays due to high demand or weather conditions
• Limited Time Slots: Restricted delivery windows may not suit all schedules
• Technology Dependency: Requires internet connection and digital literacy
• Substitution Issues: Items may be substituted without prior consent
• Packaging Waste: Excessive packaging leading to environmental concerns
• Personal Touch: Lack of personal interaction and immediate assistance

1. (b) Describe the characteristics of B2B, B2C, C2B and C2C models of e-Commerce. Give an example for each. (10 marks)

Answer :

1. Business-to-Business (B2B) Model:

Characteristics:

• Transactions between two or more businesses
• Higher transaction volumes and values
• Complex procurement processes
• Long-term business relationships
• Bulk ordering and wholesale pricing
• Credit-based payment systems
• Specialized products and services
• Professional negotiation processes

Example: Alibaba.com - Global wholesale marketplace where manufacturers sell to retailers and businesses.

2. Business-to-Consumer (B2C) Model:

Characteristics:

• Direct selling from business to end consumers
• User-friendly interfaces and shopping experience
• Marketing and advertising focused on consumers
• Individual purchase transactions
• Wide variety of payment options
• Customer service and support systems
• Home delivery and return policies
• Brand building and customer loyalty programs

Example: Amazon.in - Online retail platform selling products directly to consumers.

3. Consumer-to-Business (C2B) Model:

Characteristics:

• Individuals offer products/services to businesses
• Reverse auction mechanisms
• Freelancing and service-based transactions
• Skill-based marketplace
• Project-based work assignments
• Rating and review systems for service providers
• Competitive pricing through bidding
• Flexible work arrangements

Example: Upwork.com - Platform where freelancers offer services to businesses and entrepreneurs.

4. Consumer-to-Consumer (C2C) Model:

Characteristics:

• Transactions between individual consumers
• Platform acts as intermediary
• Peer-to-peer trading mechanisms
• Trust and reputation systems
• Commission-based revenue model
• User-generated content and listings
• Second-hand and unique product markets
• Community-driven marketplace

Example: OLX.in - Online marketplace where individuals buy and sell products to each other.

2. (a) With the help of a block diagram, explain the E-commerce workflow. (5 marks)

Answer :

E-commerce Workflow: The e-commerce workflow represents the complete process flow from customer interaction to order fulfillment.

Workflow Explanation:

1. Customer Interaction: Customer visits the e-commerce platform
2. Product Discovery: Browse categories, search products, view details
3. Selection Process: Add desired items to shopping cart
4. User Authentication: Login or register new account
5. Checkout: Review cart, enter shipping details
6. Payment Processing: Secure payment through gateway
7. Order Management: Inventory check and order confirmation
8. Fulfillment: Packaging, shipping, and delivery
9. Post-purchase: Customer feedback and support

2. (b) List and explain any five emerging trends in M-commerce. (5 marks)

Answer :

Five Emerging Trends in M-commerce:

1. Progressive Web Apps (PWAs):

• App-like experience through web browsers
• Faster loading times and offline functionality
• No need for app store downloads
• Push notifications and home screen installation
• Cost-effective alternative to native apps

2. Voice Commerce (V-commerce):

• Shopping through voice assistants (Alexa, Google Assistant)
• Voice search for product discovery
• Hands-free shopping experience
• Integration with smart home devices
• Natural language processing for better interaction

3. Augmented Reality (AR) Shopping:

• Virtual try-on experiences for clothing and accessories
• Furniture placement visualization in homes
• Product demonstration through AR
• Enhanced product visualization
• Reduced return rates through better preview

4. Mobile Wallets and Digital Payments:

• UPI-based instant payments
• Contactless NFC payments
• Cryptocurrency integration
• Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) options
• Biometric authentication for security

5. Social Commerce Integration:

• Shopping directly through social media platforms
• Influencer-driven product recommendations
• Live streaming shopping events
• User-generated content for product discovery
• Seamless checkout within social apps

3. (a) Write a short note on transplanted real world business models. (5 marks)

Answer :

Transplanted Real World Business Models:

Transplanted real world business models refer to traditional offline business models that have been adapted and implemented in the digital/online environment. These models take existing proven business concepts from the physical world and recreate them in the virtual space with necessary modifications to suit the digital medium.

Characteristics:

• Familiar Concepts: Based on well-established offline business practices
• Digital Adaptation: Modified to leverage internet technologies
• Proven Viability: Built on tested business fundamentals
• Customer Recognition: Easy for customers to understand and adopt

Examples of Transplanted Models:

• Online Retail Stores: Traditional retail shops converted to e-commerce websites (Amazon, Flipkart)
• Digital Banking: Traditional banking services offered online (Net banking, mobile banking)
• Online Auctions: Traditional auction houses replicated digitally (eBay)
• Virtual Classrooms: Traditional education delivered through online platforms
• Digital Libraries: Physical libraries converted to online repositories
• Online Newspapers: Print media transformed to digital format

Advantages:

• Lower implementation risk due to proven business models
• Customer familiarity and acceptance
• Established operational procedures
• Cost reduction through digitalization
• Extended reach and accessibility

Challenges:

• May require significant modification for digital medium
• Competition from purely digital-native models
• Technology adaptation requirements
• Change management in traditional organizations

3. (b) What is e-paper ? List the advantages and disadvantages of e-papers. (5 marks)

Answer :

E-paper (Electronic Paper):

E-paper, also known as electronic paper or e-ink, is a display technology designed to mimic the appearance of ordinary ink on paper. Unlike conventional flat panel displays that emit light, electronic paper displays reflect light like paper, making them more comfortable to read and providing a paper-like reading experience.

Technology Overview:

• Uses electrophoretic technology with microcapsules
• Contains positively charged white particles and negatively charged black particles
• Electric field manipulation controls particle movement
• Bistable display - retains image without power

Advantages of E-papers:

• Eye Comfort: No backlight, reduces eye strain and fatigue
• Excellent Readability: High contrast and clarity in direct sunlight
• Ultra-low Power Consumption: Power required only when changing content
• Paper-like Experience: Natural reading feel similar to printed material
• Wide Viewing Angle: Readable from almost any angle
• Lightweight and Thin: Portable and easy to handle
• Long Battery Life: Can last weeks or months on single charge
• Environmentally Friendly: Reduces paper consumption
• Storage Capacity: Can store thousands of books/documents
• Durability: Resistant to damage compared to LCD screens

Disadvantages of E-papers:

• Slow Refresh Rate: Page turning and scrolling can be sluggish
• Limited Color Support: Most e-papers are monochrome (black and white)
• No Backlighting: Requires external light source for reading in dark
• Video Limitations: Cannot display videos or animations smoothly
• Higher Cost: More expensive than traditional paper books initially
• Technology Dependence: Requires device and technical knowledge
• Limited Interactivity: Touch response may be slower than other displays
• Fragility: Electronic components can be damaged
• Format Limitations: May not support all document formats
• Screen Ghosting: Previous images may leave faint traces

4. (a) How can e-commerce portals make shopping secure ? (5 marks)

Answer :

Security Measures for E-commerce Portals:

1. Secure Payment Processing:

• SSL/TLS Encryption: Encrypt data transmission between browser and server
• PCI DSS Compliance: Adhere to Payment Card Industry Data Security Standards
• Secure Payment Gateways: Use trusted third-party payment processors
• Tokenization: Replace sensitive payment data with non-sensitive tokens
• Multi-factor Authentication: Additional verification layers for payments

2. Data Protection:

• Data Encryption: Encrypt stored customer data using strong algorithms
• Secure Databases: Implement database security and access controls
• Regular Backups: Maintain secure backup systems
• Data Minimization: Collect only necessary customer information
• Privacy Policies: Clear data usage and protection policies

3. User Authentication:

• Strong Password Policies: Enforce complex password requirements
• Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): SMS/Email OTP verification
• Biometric Authentication: Fingerprint, face recognition
• Session Management: Secure session handling and timeouts
• Account Lockout: Protect against brute force attacks

4. Website Security:

• Web Application Firewall (WAF): Filter malicious traffic
• Regular Security Audits: Vulnerability assessments and penetration testing
• Secure Coding Practices: Prevent SQL injection, XSS attacks
• HTTPS Implementation: Secure HTTP protocol for all pages
• Content Security Policy: Prevent cross-site scripting

5. Fraud Prevention:

• Machine Learning Algorithms: Detect unusual purchasing patterns
• Real-time Monitoring: Monitor transactions for suspicious activity
• Device Fingerprinting: Track device characteristics
• Geolocation Verification: Verify user location
• Risk Scoring: Assess transaction risk levels

4. (b) Explain M-commerce application flow. (5 marks)

Answer :

M-commerce Application Flow:

M-commerce (Mobile Commerce) application flow describes the complete user journey and technical process flow in mobile commerce applications, from app launch to transaction completion.

Detailed Application Flow:

1. Application Initialization:

• App launch and splash screen
• Device compatibility check
• Network connectivity verification
• App version and security updates

2. User Authentication Layer:

• Login/registration options
• Social media integration
• Biometric authentication
• Guest user access

3. Product Discovery Flow:

• Category-wise browsing
• Search functionality with filters
• Personalized recommendations
• Product comparison features

4. Shopping Cart Management:

• Add/remove items
• Quantity modification
• Wishlist integration
• Price calculation and discounts

5. Mobile Payment Integration:

• Mobile wallet support
• UPI payment integration
• Credit/debit card processing
• One-click payment options

6. Order Management:

• Real-time order tracking
• Push notifications
• Delivery status updates
• Customer support integration

5. (a) How did shopping experience change with the advent of E-commerce ? Explain with an example. (5 marks)

Answer :

Transformation of Shopping Experience through E-commerce:

Traditional Shopping vs E-commerce Shopping:

Before E-commerce (Traditional Shopping):

• Physical store visits required
• Limited store hours (9 AM - 9 PM typically)
• Geographic limitations
• Limited product comparison
• Cash-only or card payments at store
• Immediate product possession
• Personal interaction with salespeople
• Physical product examination

After E-commerce (Digital Shopping):

• Shop from anywhere, anytime
• 24/7 availability
• Global marketplace access
• Easy price and feature comparison
• Multiple payment options
• Home delivery services
• AI-powered recommendations
• Virtual product trials

Example: Book Shopping Transformation

Traditional Book Shopping (Pre-E-commerce):

• Physical Bookstore Visit: Travel to local bookstore during business hours
• Limited Inventory: Store stocks only popular or space-permitting books
• Manual Search: Browse shelves or ask staff for book location
• No Reviews: Rely on book covers and brief descriptions
• Fixed Prices: No price comparison or discounts
• Cash Payment: Limited to cash or card payment at counter
• Immediate Possession: Take book home immediately

E-commerce Book Shopping (Amazon Example):

• Online Browsing: Search millions of books from home
• Vast Selection: Access to international and rare books
• Smart Search: Search by title, author, genre, or keywords
• Customer Reviews: Read detailed reviews and ratings
• Price Comparison: Compare prices across different sellers
• Multiple Formats: Choose between physical, e-book, or audiobook
• Personalized Recommendations: "Customers who bought this also bought"
• Digital Payment: Multiple payment options including EMI
• Home Delivery: Book delivered to doorstep
• Easy Returns: Return policy for unsatisfactory purchases

Key Changes in Shopping Experience:

• Convenience Revolution: Shop anytime, anywhere
• Choice Explosion: Access to global inventory
• Information Empowerment: Detailed product information and reviews
• Price Transparency: Easy comparison and better deals
• Personalization: Customized shopping experience
• Social Shopping: Share and seek recommendations online

5. (b) List any five cyber offences and related penalties under IT Act, 2000. (5 marks)

Answer :

Cyber Offences and Penalties under IT Act, 2000:

1. Unauthorized Access to Computer System (Section 66):

• Offence: Dishonestly or fraudulently accessing computer system/network
• Penalty: Imprisonment up to 3 years and/or fine up to ₹5 lakh
• Examples: Hacking into someone's computer, unauthorized network access

2. Data Theft and Computer Related Offences (Section 66B):

• Offence: Dishonestly receiving stolen computer resource or communication device
• Penalty: Imprisonment up to 3 years and/or fine up to ₹1 lakh
• Examples: Using stolen credit card data, receiving stolen digital content

3. Identity Theft (Section 66C):

• Offence: Fraudulently using password, digital signature, or unique identification of another person
• Penalty: Imprisonment up to 3 years and fine up to ₹1 lakh
• Examples: Using someone's login credentials, impersonating others online

4. Cheating by Personation Using Computer Resource (Section 66D):

• Offence: Cheating by impersonation using computer resource
• Penalty: Imprisonment up to 3 years and fine up to ₹1 lakh
• Examples: Creating fake profiles, phishing scams, online fraud

5. Publishing Obscene Information (Section 67):

• Offence: Publishing or transmitting obscene material in electronic form
• Penalty: First conviction - imprisonment up to 3 years and fine up to ₹5 lakh
• Second conviction: Imprisonment up to 5 years and fine up to ₹10 lakh
• Examples: Sharing pornographic content, cyberbullying with obscene material

Additional Notable Sections: