The impact of e-commerce as a facilitating tool for business: the case of tour operators in Nairobi

Abstract

The impact of the new technology is far reaching and its invention has revolutionised the way companies conduct business and the tourism industry is no exception. This study was done with the objective of determining The Impact of E-commerce as a Tool for Business among the Tour Operators. With the increased number of holiday-makers wanting instant information on holiday destinations which are availed bye-commerce and internet. Primary data was collected by means of structured questionnaires. The questionnaires were given to managers who are entrusted with the operations of the tour firm. The response rate was 70% (28/40). The data was analysed using descriptive statistics. The study revealed that many Tour Operators have embraced e-commerce and they are applying it as a tool for business. From the response it showed that Tour Operators enjoy the benefits of e-commerce as a tool for business to a large extent. However there are factors that are influencing the operations of Tour Operators while transacting business through e-commerce. There are problems like lack of privacy. insecurity in payments and information abuse ad complexity of use. The researcher clearly shows from the results that benefits surpass the problems that are faced by Tour Operators.