Digitalisation has brought a massive impact on our lives and today, we have accustomed ourselves to a more technological way of living. The most prominent impact we can see is on shopping. Shops and stores are now shifting online, even our mamak has a delivery system set.
Interestingly, this change has created an extensive range of online-based businesses growing daily. Even so, most shops have opted for at least one or two online-based systems for their operations.
Why is online shopping famous now?
The obvious reason is due to the changes in purchasing practice we have faced. A new ecosystem has emerged where we must rely on online shopping sites and cashless-based transactions more often nowadays. Subsequently, these online retailers rely on consumers to maximise their profit.
According to The Atlantic, another reason why it's everyone’s favourite is that we get a dopamine hit when we purchase something. Which then makes buying and receiving items from online shopping double the hit. Some also view buying items online acts as a self-reward – a surprise gift at your doorstep.
The perks of online shopping
Living in Malaysia there is always a sale and every month shopping sites will take advantage of dates like 8/8, 9/9, 10/10 and the list goes on. Not only that, but consumers are also often blessed with discounts, cashback, and promo codes. Above that, banks also provide frequent discounts such as Lazada credit card promos and Shopee credit card promos for customers when shopping at the mentioned marketplace. Not only does this benefit us, but it also benefits the company, the bank and everyone involved. A win-win situation indeed.
The convenience of online shopping serves as a plus as well. It requires less time, and the store is available to you 24/7. Also, it cuts down the hassle of searching from store to store as well as lining up for payments. You can now sort out everything with just a few clicks, all in the comfort of your home.
How Do Reviews Help?
As mentioned above, we can agree that digitalisation has brought us a variety of choices in the shopping world. However, it has also caused some “shops” to take advantage. Hence, a tip to manage this for buyers is to use reviews as guidelines.
Reading reviews both from the shop itself and from a recent buyer can be a great help. This way, you have the power to compare prices, delivery times and product functionality that suits your liking.
Always look for an honest review. Ultimately it will lead you towards a better shopping experience and satisfaction.
Consequences of Online Shopping
Granted, online shopping makes it easy for individuals to shop. Considering its success, it has created new shopping sites, thus creating new job opportunities. With the power of online shopping, some companies can even manage their business via just the internet.
Bigger manufacturers also benefit from this by assembling products and delivering them directly from the warehouse. As a result, companies can lessen their liability while simultaneously increasing profits. The rise of it all makes everyone's life easier and progresses in smoother day-to-day operations.
What’s Not to Like About Online Shopping
When we shop online, there are many factors we should be aware of. Due to the rise of new e-commerce sites, there is no one-size-fits-all. For instance, apps and payment systems can differ from site to site. As such, we must adapt to the steps required from these stores.
Personal data is also at stake. After all, we purchase items mostly using bank cards while revealing our names and addresses. This data is kept by the company and in the worst-case scenario, a single security breach can jeopardise our privacy and lives.
Online shopping might not always be for people of all ages. It may come across naturally to someone in their twenties and thirties, but older generations might probably need some time to get used to it. What’s more, some items things like produce and groceries are best selected while it's fresh. Taking chances with online delivery often does not guarantee the best conditions.
Reality Checks Your Cheque
Yes, online shopping is undoubtedly fun and exciting. However, to be a smart consumer, we should always be wary of product waste and expirations. Always look for deals and discounts when shopping and remember to list all your needs and wants before purchasing. A great revelation is online shopping. But for most things we do, be considerate and be objective about it.
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