The e-commerce industry can echo Mark Twain's famous quote, "The reports of my death have been greatly exaggerated." As early as 2001 analysts have been predicting doom for Internet commerce saying, " . . . the dizzying growth . . . has come to an end."  The same message was reported in June 2007 and reached nearly hysterical dimensions in December 2007. And yet, in January 2008, the online holiday shopping had actually increased 19% for a record $29 billion in sales. True, this was not the 20% predicted before the slow start recording in early November 2007.

It is true that online sales growth is not continuing to grow as rapidly, but it is a natural result of not being able to sustain the initial overly-stimulated rates of its beginning. There are several reasons for this, not the least of which is that consumers are being more cautious with their purchases due to the economy. Retail stores have been working harder to make their stores and the products offered  more attractive and inviting. Customers are experiencing some Internet fatigue now that shopping online has become more common. As with any new business, there is a process of learning about what the practical limitations are and ways to stretch those limitations.

There are online businesses that have failed, and consumers are becoming less inclined to purchase in general. This means that you have to be smart about your business. You have to plan, research, analyze, and get expert help in areas with which you are unfamiliar. Make sure that your website looks professional and be vigilant about keeping it working smoothly. Incompetence is the kiss of death to any business, online or otherwise.