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on Information and Communication Technologies |
| By: | Marco Cioppi (University of Urbino (Italy)); Andrea Buratti (University of Urbino (Italy)) |
| Abstract: | In this paper we discuss the strategic importance of communication and Intranet for theItalian Small and Medium Enterprise (SMEs). We analyse the case of Fornari SpA, an Italian medium size clothing and shoes manufacturer that uses internet as a communication tool. The aim of this study is to understand the potential of internet in a specific case and to understand whether internet is a strategic tool or only an operative tool. The firm currently uses two applications of internet: extranet and intranet. The analysis underlines the importance of marketing competences and training that are absolutely necessary to make the most effectiveand efficient use of the internet potential. |
| Keywords: | SME, ICT, Internet Marketing. |
| JEL: | M30 M31 |
| Date: | 2009 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:urb:wpaper:09_07&r=ict |
| By: | Ian Galloway |
| Abstract: | Peer-to-peer (P2P) networks directly connect computer users online. Popular P2P platforms include eBay and Craigslist, for example, which have transformed the market for used consumer goods in recent years. Increasingly popular, however, are P2P lending sites that facilitate debt transactions by directly connecting borrowers and lenders on the Internet. In the summer of 2008, the Center for Community Development Investments assembled a working group of community development leaders, investors, and Prosper Marketplace, the largest P2P lending platform in the world, to discuss the potential community development implications of the innovation. This working paper documents this discussion and explores P2P lending in greater detail. Part I offers background on P2P and the state of the P2P lending industry; Part II outlines the potential community development finance implications of P2P; and Part III discusses the working group and next steps necessary to successfully marry P2P technology and community development finance. |
| Keywords: | Loans ; Internet |
| Date: | 2009 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:fip:fedfcw:2009-06&r=ict |
| By: | André De Palma (ENS Cachan - Ecole Normale Supérieure de Cachan - Ecole Normale Supérieure de Cachan, Department of Economics, Ecole Polytechnique - CNRS : UMR7176 - Polytechnique - X, IUF - Institut Universitaire de France); Robin Lindsey (University of Alberta - University of Alberta) |
| Abstract: | This paper reviews the methods and technologies for congestion pricing of roads. Congestion tolls can be implemented at scales ranging from individual lanes on single links to national road networks. Tolls can be differentiated by time of day, road type and vehicle characteristics, and even set in real time according to current traffic conditions. Conventional toll booths have largely given way to electronic toll collection technologies. The main technology categories are roadside-only systems employing digital photography, tag and beacon systems that use short-range microwave technology, and in vehicle-only systems based on either satellite or cellular network communications. The best technology choice depends on the application. The rate at which congestion pricing is implemented, and its ultimate scope, will depend on what technology is used and on what other functions and services it can perform. Since congestion pricing calls for the greatest overall degree of toll differentiation, congestion pricing is likely to drive the technology choice. |
| Keywords: | Road pricing; Congestion pricing; Electronic Toll Collection technology |
| Date: | 2009–09–09 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:hal:wpaper:hal-00414526_v1&r=ict |