The internet allows many ways of improving business performance
The major areas are :
Web sites - to advertise your products or services 24 hours a day 365 days per year.
ezines - electronic newsletters (usually free) to provide information to opt-in subscribers.
email - CRM (Customer Relationship Management) programmes. Keeping in touch with customers with personalised email sent in bulk at low cost, offering additional information or special offers.
Affiliate Programmes - Allows commission to be earned by referring customers to owners web site.
Creating sales for off line business - Offer products or services by special offer coupons etc to be redeemed at existing store.
Invite potential customers to order by telephone quoting a special code.
Accept 3rd party payment - Use 3rd parties to verify and confirm payment (low initial investment for higher commission). Lower risk option
Allow others to promote your goods on their sites - another low cost option. This can also be commission based.
Marketplace hosted solutions - Marketplaces were you can construct your site using their specialist software - usually set around a specific industry or supply chain.
Full E-commerce web site - high initial cost - should consider lower cost options first
The power of the internet is that it is truly global. You can find contact and interact with a wider number of potential suppliers.
Auctions and reverse auctions allow you to post requirements and invite tenders.
Joint venture partners are easier to find, also searching for new products and services, distribution channels and outsourcing opportunities.