MA E-Business Autumn 2004

Individual Assignment

Select one of the following questions for your individual assignment. This assignment should be your own work and is worth 50% of the total marks.

Length of assignment: 1,750words

Due Date: Wednesday 5 ^th January 2004 3pm

 

1. The terms e-business and e-commerce are seen by some as two distinct concepts and by others as one and the same. Identify the differences between these two terms by placing them in a theoretical framework. Are there differences in different countries or is this terminology unique to the UK?

This question involves conducting a survey to evaluate the meaning of the different terms. The survey should include a review of the literature, and also an analysis of the terms as they are used in different organisations including the public and private sectors. You may also include a survey of people’s perception of the term if you wish. Your answer must demonstrate reading of academic literature, and critical analysis of this reading to synthesise your argument. You should also include real life examples to support your answer. 

2. “The Internet has been a technological revolution that has transformed whole industries”

Critically evaluate the above statement. Do you believe this statement to be true? Referring to academic literature and drawing on examples, synthesise an argument in support of your beliefs. What are the implications of this statement for business and management?

3.      E-government is a concept that has revolutionised bureaucracy and the way governments operate in the 21 ^st century.

Critically evaluate the above statement. You may use one country which has adopted e-government; OR you can use an example of one country that has not adopted e-government and evaluate whether it should or not; OR you can make a comparative study of two countries.

In you answer you might include an explanation of the concept of e-government, evaluate how effective e-government has been (or not)  and the implications of e-government on the future. You must draw on academic literature to synthesise your arguments.

NOTE

The main purpose of this assignment is for you to demonstrate an understanding of the concepts of e-business and to be able to question and analyse concepts that have been introduced. Do not focus merely on the descriptive but give a detailed analysis bringing in academic references and frameworks, please make sure you reference all your work appropriately (check your manual).  There is a word limit of 1,750 words, you must therefore demonstrate your writing skills in being able to include information that is relevant and to the point. You must be succinct and only include information that will further and develop your argument and evidence wider reading. You may use appendices in this assignment.

Marking Guidelines:

As well as the University of Bradford School of Management mark sheet the following learning outcomes indicate the performance expected in the marks. (These criteria are based on suggestions made by Prof. Zahir Irani)

Learning Outcome 1 – Pass (around 50%)

Provide a clear introduction to the topic that gives an overview of the content. This will be followed by a narrow literature search using mainly the course text and very few other reference sources. Some attempt to describe and analyse key issues with an attempt to explain/criticise/summarise the content in the conclusion section.

Learning Outcome 2 – (51 – 59%)

Demonstrate a coherent response to the requirements of the essay. Students will be expected to clearly express their ideas in writing; draw recognisable and relevant conclusions from the literature and appropriately organised and articulate responses. There is a coherent response to the requirements of the task. 

Learning Outcome 3 (60 – 69%)

The achievement of a sound level of understanding of the essay title, which is based on a competent grasp of relevant topics, methodology and content; the display of skills and originality in interpreting the literature; organisation of material (opinions, literature etc) to a high level of competence. Some skills and originality in application of ideas or in synthesis of material. 

Learning Outcome 4 (70%+)

An authoritative and critical grasp of concepts, methodology and content of e-business models, indications of originality in application of ideas, synthesis of material; personal insights into the subject matter and confidence of understanding. Some skills and originality in application of ideas or in synthesis of material.

Criteria being assessed	Percentage of Marks Allocated
Introduction & conclusion	5%
Structure & Presentation	5%
Referencing	5%
Evidence of Reading	10%
Clarity of written expression & standard of written language	20%
Evidence of Understanding	10%
Degree of insight, Analysis &Evaluation	15%
Use of appropriate concepts, theories & modelsContent/Theory/ Models/ Frameworks	15%
Evidence of Critical thought	15%
	100.00%