Chirpy Toys is a small company manufacturing soft toys. They have decided that it would be beneficial to the company to create a website, which would allow customers to order on-line.

(a) Explain how a customer who did not know the company's website address would gain access to the site.

(b) Describe how Chirpy Toys would benefit from the introduction of a website.

(c) Describe how the customers would benefit from the introduction of the website.

(d) Give three disadvantages of using the Internet to purchase goods.

(a) A customer can use a search engine like Google or Bing to search for "Chirpy Toys". The search results will likely display the company's website among the top results, allowing the customer to click on the link and access the site.

(b) Chirpy Toys would get the following benefits from the introduction of a website :

1. Increased Reach — A website would provide Chirpy Toys with a global online presence, allowing them to reach a wider audience beyond their physical location. Customers from different regions or even countries can discover and purchase their soft toys.
2. 24/7 Availability — Unlike a physical store, a website can operate round the clock. Customers can access and make purchases at any time convenient to them, even outside regular business hours. This increases sales opportunities and customer satisfaction.
3. Cost Efficiency — Setting up and maintaining a website is generally more cost-effective compared to establishing and operating a physical store. It reduces expenses related to rent, utilities, and staffing requirements.
4. Enhanced Customer Insights — Through the website Chirpy Toys can gather valuable customer data, analyze buying patterns, and obtain feedback through online surveys. This information can help them understand their customers better and make informed business decisions.

(c) The customers would get the following benefits from the introduction of the website:

1. Convenience — Customers can browse and purchase Chirpy Toys' products from the comfort of their own homes or anywhere with an internet connection. They can shop at their own pace, without the need to visit a physical store or adhere to specific opening hours.
2. Wide Product Selection — Chirpy Toys can showcase their entire product range on the website, including new releases and exclusive items. Customers can access a broader selection of soft toys compared to a physical store with limited shelf space.
3. Enhanced Product Information — The website can provide comprehensive product descriptions, images, videos and customer reviews, enabling customers to make well-informed purchasing decisions.
4. Economical — Customers will save time and money by not having to visit the shop in person and still being able to have a simplified shopping experience.

(d) Three disadvantages of using the Internet to purchase goods are as follows:

1. Lack of Physical Inspection — When purchasing goods online, customers do not have the opportunity to physically inspect or try out the product before making a purchase.
2. Potential for Fraud and Security Risks — Online shopping involves providing personal and financial information, which can be vulnerable to hackers if proper security measures are not in place.
3. Delayed or Inconvenient Delivery — It takes time for the good purchased using the Internet to get delivered to us. If the product is required urgently then we can't get it through Internet.