Using the business process you identified in Activity 2.2, determine how the process could be improved, and how information systems utilized within that business process would be impacted. Provide a brief explanation of where there could be improvements to enhance the competitive advantage of that organization. Then, create a revised workflow diagram of the improved process. Explain how the improved process will create a competitive advantage and begin to formulate a strategy for changing this business process. Provide a brief description of anything that will need to be taken into consideration if you were to implement this new business process.

Please note: This is the same type of workflow diagram as you created in Activity 2.2, but you will be revising it to show improvements in the process. These improvements may be due to the implementation of a new system, creating more efficiencies, enhancing customer experiences, or other competitive advantages that could be made with a new or upgraded existing information system.

Description of the Business Process:

The business process of ordering a product online involves various steps, from the customer browsing a website or mobile app to the final delivery of the product. Here is a general description of the process:

Customer Selection: The customer visits the online store and selects the desired product(s) by browsing the available options and adding them to the virtual shopping cart.

Shopping Cart Review: The customer reviews the items in the shopping cart, verifies the quantities, and makes any necessary modifications, such as removing or adding products.

Checkout Process: The customer proceeds to the checkout process, providing their billing and shipping information. They may also have the option to choose a preferred shipping method.

Payment: The customer selects a payment method, such as a credit card, debit card, or digital payment service, and provides the necessary payment details to complete the transaction securely.

Order Confirmation: After successful payment, the customer receives an order confirmation with their purchase details, including an order number and estimated delivery date.

Order Fulfillment: The order information is forwarded to the warehouse or fulfillment center, where the necessary steps are taken to process the order. This includes picking, packing, and preparing the product(s) for shipment.

Shipping and Tracking: The packaged order is handed to the shipping carrier for delivery. The customer may receive a tracking number that allows them to monitor the progress of their shipment.

Delivery and Receipt: The shipping carrier delivers the package to the customer's address. The customer receives the product(s) and confirms the successful delivery.

Functional Areas Impacted:

The process of ordering a product online impacts several functional areas within an organization:

Marketing and Sales: This process starts with the customer browsing and selecting products, making it crucial for marketing and sales efforts to attract and engage potential customers through effective product presentation, promotions, and user experience.

E-commerce and Website Management: The online store and its associated infrastructure, including the website or mobile app, shopping cart functionality, and payment processing, are impacted by this process. These elements must be managed and maintained to ensure a smooth ordering experience.

Customer Service: In case customers have questions or encounter issues during the ordering process, customer service representatives may need to assist them, providing guidance, addressing concerns, and ensuring a positive customer experience.

Supply Chain and Operations: Once an order is placed, the supply chain and operations team are responsible for managing inventory, order processing, fulfillment, and shipping logistics to ensure accurate and timely delivery of the ordered products.

Finance and Accounting: The finance and accounting department is involved in processing payments, verifying transactions, and managing financial records related to online orders.