Computer Standards & Interfaces 27 (2005) 371 – 381 www.elsevier.com/locate/csi
An implementation model for WEGS in WLAN applications: a Taiwanese case Hsin-Pin Fua,*, Tien-Hsiang Changb, Lon-Fon Shiehc, Wen-Hsiung Wub a
Department of Marketing and Distribution Management, National Kaohsiung First University of Science and Technology, 2, Juoyue Rd., Nantz District, Kaohsiung 811, Taiwan, ROC b Department of Information Management, National Kaohsiung University of Applied Science, Kaohsiung, Taiwan, ROC c Industrial Development Bureau, Ministry of Economic Affairs, Taipei, Taiwan, ROC Available online 4 November 2004
Abstract The advances in wireless communication technologies in recent years have caused enterprises to pay more attention to the development of mobile commerce (m-commerce). Studies have indicated that many enterprises have failed in the implementation of information systems (ISs). A meaningful model is needed as a reference for the implementation of wireless systems (WS). This paper therefore proposes such a model on the basis of the relevant literature and a practical case study. The paper begins with a case study of a wireless exhibition guide system (WEGS) based on a wireless local area network (WLAN). The implementation is investigated on the basis of the key success factors in m-commerce as identified in the literature, and by comparing the differences between an information system and a wireless system. Finally, a reference model for implementing a wireless system is proposed to help enterprises reduce the risks associated with m-commerce. D 2004 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved. Keywords: WWAN; WLAN; WEGS; Implementation model; M-commerce
1. Introduction Advances in wireless communication technologies, together with the popularization of wireless or portable electronic communication devices, have quickly changed work and leisure alike. Ovum Research [1] has reported that the number of
* Corresponding author. Tel.: +886 7 6011000x4221; fax: +886 7 6011043. E-mail address:
[email protected] (H.-P. Fu). 0920-5489/$ - see front matter D 2004 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved. doi:10.1016/j.csi.2004.10.005
mobile-commerce (m-commerce) subscribers worldwide has increased significantly over the past 2 years. The same research has suggested that wireless technology and Internet applications will be in the mainstream of development in communication technology in both business and entertainment. Many enterprises have therefore begun to investigate possible applications of m-commerce in enhancing operational efficiency and corporate competitiveness. Since 2002, the Industrial Development Bureau (IDB) of the Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA)
372
H.-P. Fu et al. / Computer Standards & Interfaces 27 (2005) 371–381
of the Republic of China (ROC) has been increasing budgets to accelerate wireless-environment construction in Taiwan. In early 2002, the National Museum of Marine Biology and Aquarium (NMMBA) began to plan its wireless exhibition guide system (WEGS) based on its wireless local area network (WLAN). In September 2002, the IDB organized a committee to review this project. Eventually, funding of NT$6 million was received for system implementation, which was completed in December 2002. A total of 54 man-months was invested in the project [2]. The project was the first WLAN-based WEGS in Taiwan, and its implementation model and the experience of implementation are therefore worthy of study. After a consideration of this project and a literature review, the present paper proposes an implementation model for such a wireless system (WS). The case study, literature review, and model should be of assistance to enterprises in reducing the risks associated with m-commerce.
2. Related work Mueller-Veerese [3] defined m-commerce as commercial transactions out of wireless devices. Gunasekaran and Ngai [4] defined it as any direct or indirect transactions involving monetary value can be called m-commerce as long as they are completed on wireless telecommunication networks. Tarasewich et al. [5] defined m-commerce as all commercial transactions or potent commercial transaction activities occurred by linking up to the interfaces of communication networks with wireless (or mobile) devices. The above definitions imply that m-commerce encompasses the following characteristics: ubiquity, personalization, flexibility, convenience, dissemination, and localization [6,7]. Vaidyanathan [8] identified the following potential functions of mcommerce: (a) industrial applications: (i) pricing and quoting; (ii) order entry; (iii) delivery and inventory status; and (iv) problem alerts; and (b) individual applications: (i) news; (ii) flight status; (iii) weather; (iv) stock quotes; (v) corporate e-mail; and (vi) corporate directories. Lee et al. [9] proposed an auction–agent system using a collaborative mobile
agent and a brokering mechanism called MoCAAS that reduces the network load. However, little about the application of wireless systems has been discussed in the literature.
3. Methodology Research has indicated that many enterprises fail in their implementation of information systems (ISs) [10,11]. According to Harbour [12], seven steps are required to implement business process re-engineering (BPR), whereas Davenport and Short [13] have proposed five steps for BPR. Hammer [14] has proposed a four-step inter-enterprise process integration to achieve efficiency among different firms. These various models can help enterprises to implement an information system (IS) successfully. However, there is little in the literature about wireless system implementation. Fortunately, wireless systems are related to mcommerce in general, and many studies have investigated key factors for success in the promotion of m-commerce. These factors are readily adaptable to the implementation of wireless systems. Therefore, this paper begins with a case study on a WLAN-based WEGS. A model for WS implementation is then developed through analysis of the key factors for success, a discussion of an m-commerce framework (drawing on a literature review), and differential analysis of the characteristics of WS and IS.
4. Case study 4.1. Background The National Museum of Marine Biology and Aquarium (NMBAA) is a popular tourist attraction near the Kenting National Park in southern Taiwan. The two major exhibition sites bwaters of TaiwanQ and bCoral Kingdom PavilionQ—display more than 21,000 species of marine organisms in an aquarium that utilizes state-of-the-art life-sustaining technology. However, with more than 2.5 million visitors per year, the exhibition space of the aquarium is inadequate. Access to the aquarium is restricted, and the facility is unable to cater for the many people
H.-P. Fu et al. / Computer Standards & Interfaces 27 (2005) 371–381
who wish to visit. As a result, tour guides were reluctant to bring visitors to the exhibition site, and it was so noisy that visitors could hardly hear museum guides. It was therefore very difficult to run onsite tours successfully [2]. A WLAN helped to reduce obstacles and costs of network set up, and allowed employees to collect, access, and update the museum database to enhance work efficiency. However, the NMMBA decided to construct a WEGS to facilitate visitors in their browsing of exhibit information and to enhance service quality in the museum. 4.2. Objective The aim of the project was to promote the NMMBA facility and provide education and service tools to visitors by integrating wireless, multimedia, and database technologies. Specifically, the project hoped to achieve the following targets: !
to provide a personalized wireless service to the public and to promote the development of wireless
!
373
services by combining physical and mobile exhibition environments; and to promote WEGS to become a new exhibition tool and to increase awareness by promoting the museum with wireless technology.
4.3. Needs analysis Before beginning the project, a survey of 1108 visitors was conducted to evaluate their expectations of the WEGS. The survey revealed a high demand for an exhibition guide service from the museum— especially via personal digital assistants (PDAs). Most respondents wanted a tour map and exhibition guide provided in an entertaining style. To entice visitors to rent the exhibition devices, especially among those not accustomed to using the system, the survey revealed that visitors wanted discount coupons to be provided for museum souvenir purchases and other promotional discounts of nearby tourist attractions. Most visitors indicated that they would rent WEGS devices at a reasonable price.
Fig. 1. Framework of WEGS.
374
H.-P. Fu et al. / Computer Standards & Interfaces 27 (2005) 371–381
4.4. To-be model analysis According to the trend in multimedia applications, users are motivated to use a system if they are provided with a well-designed interface and an easyto-use networking environment that can send service information to consumers quickly. Therefore, based on the survey findings, the WEGS framework for the NMMBA facility was designed as shown in Fig. 1. Based on the tour-map database, the system showed the location of various attractions, and provided information about them. From the landmarks on the tour map, users could also search for further information in related literature and films. They could also seek out other marine organisms exhibited in the museum. Users were required to enter basic personal data before using the system (or were asked to complete a survey when they rented the PDAs). The customer relationship management (CRM) database system recorded the data—thus providing information for the museum to analyze visitors’ responses to the exhibition. The WEGS could also provide information about customers’ utilization of the facility e-store, ecoupon, souvenirs, and books. Based on the above information, the system flowchart is shown in Fig. 2. The following six databases were planned to meet the requirements of the service framework: (i) exhibition contents database; (ii) multimedia database; (iii) tour-map database; (iv) CRM database; (v) e-store database; and (vi) promotional activity database (m-coupon).
All sub-functions of the system had to comply with the simple object access protocol (SOAP) for accessing the webpage server. Exhibition guide data had to be converted into various device formats by the device gateway before uploading to the end user browser via the wireless network. 4.5. System planning The WEGS had to enable users to acquire information ubiquitously through wireless handheld devices. It was therefore necessary to plan the system in advance. This included planning of system efficiency, wireless-environment evaluation, user endpositioning, information and communication quality, and system security and redundancy. 4.5.1. System efficiency The system had a hierarchical architecture, with the back end being a database. A web service provider host and a web server were connected to the front-end user interface over a network system. Data were transferred throughout the entire network in eXtensible Markup Language (XML) format. Despite the major website service, some functions were provided by web service to distribute the workload effectively and to achieve cross-platform requirements. 4.5.2. Wireless-environment evaluation To ensure a suitable transfer speed (within the projected maximum distance) at every access point
Fig. 2. The data flowchart of WEGS.
H.-P. Fu et al. / Computer Standards & Interfaces 27 (2005) 371–381
(AP), transfer efficiency had been measured at every corner. An optimal layout analysis on building blockage and other wave coverage problems had to be conducted. 4.5.3. User end positioning The system provided a user-positioning function by detecting the user position in terms of the corresponding position of every access point in order to provide exhibition data at the user location. In addition, this helped users to select the correct data and create a user-friendly environment.
free of any limits. The system was developed and designed in Web service manner. Programs developed could be called out for use over the Internet. 4.6.1. Construction of WEGS Users can visit any site by following the instructions in the map. Detailed illustrations, with voice introduction of the contents of every site, were provided. Moreover, exhibition guide information included other tourist attractions in the Kenting area. Construction proceeded as follows. !
4.5.4. Information and communication quality To ensure the quality of information contents and communication, an equilibrium analysis was conducted on the maximum load of an access point, projected visitor volume, average data-transfer rate, minimum acceptable data-transfer rate, webpage content data size, audiovisual data size, and so forth.
!
!
! 4.5.5. System security and redundancy Closed LAN (use of reserved IPs) was used and a dynamic host configuration protocol (DHCP) server was applied to the network to prevent hacker intrusions to the system from any WAN, and to eliminate loopholes (Trojan). In addition to the bug tolerance mechanism, load balance and redundancy mechanisms were added to the host as required. A firewall was then installed between the WEGS and the internal network system of the museum to ensure the security of the NMMBA network system.
375
!
Data were established (text, graphic, and voice) for every exhibition in every site of the museum. Exhibition guides for the Kenting area were established, including data on transportation, attractions, accommodation, and restaurants. Road-map data—to the museum and attractions in the Hengchun and Kenting area—were provided. Complete categorization and detailed description data of marine organisms in Taiwan waters were established. A WEGS was constructed, including device-rental management, member management, member records, and analytical reports.
4.6.2. Visitor positioning system Because visitors visit the museum according to the exhibition guide, the system sent exhibition guides to the PDAs of visitors according to their location. Users can then easily browse these data from the PDAs. This development proceeded as follows.
4.6. System development
!
The Dot NET framework system above the Windows 2000 server was the major platform. It connected with the standard SQL database at the rear end over OLE DB or ADO.NET. RDS could be applied to prevent the limit on the number of links (as found in a conventional server–client structure). The development tools of the system included: Microsoft Studio. NET v1.0, UltraEdit, FrontPage 2002, Flash MX, PhotoShop v7.0, illustrator v9.0, GIF Animator v5.0, Photo Impact v7.0, and Visio 2000. By applying the dot NET technology, data transfer and linking could be completed in XML framework. The data platform was
! ! !
!
Corresponding geographical data of the access point (AP) and exhibition sites were established. Locations were integrated into exhibition data in the database. The exhibition guide data were established according to the floor plan of exhibition sites. Mobile Internet protocol (IP) function was integrated and the visitor-positioning mechanism was constructed—such that visitors could receive information about the exhibitions from where they were located (by selecting the items). An easy-to-use interface was developed for the visitor-positioning service and information was provided regarding the exhibition guide, relevant
376
H.-P. Fu et al. / Computer Standards & Interfaces 27 (2005) 371–381
resources, consumer information, and location data. 4.6.3. Sale and m-coupon areas The system provides information about tours in Kenting and other promotional activities, and visitors can print coupons with information from the NMMBA information service center. This development proceeded as follows. !
!
Cooperation was sought with stores in the Kenting area (such as hotels, household lodging establishments, restaurants, gift stores, and so forth), and their information was added. The NMMBA gift shop provided a mobile ordering service to visitors by utilizing current business resources and by offering discounts to visitors.
4.6.4. Wireless network environment The network environment of the NMMBA covered both wired and wireless networks. Servers and routers were connected with WLAN. The WEGS was connected to the WLAN over APs, which were then the gateway between the wired and wireless networks. Fig. 3 shows the network and hardware framework of the system.
according to the actual needs and characteristics of the NMMBA and users (as observed during system development). The implementation procedure included service promotion, system education and training, system construction and installation, system testing, parallel online, and official online shown as follows. 4.7.1. System installation System installation will be executed in accordance with all construction and installation actions as shown in the project program and the reliability and integrity of all subsystems will be ensured. 4.7.2. System testing Testing items will include subsystem unit tests, integrated tests and subsystem integrated tests, adjustment and system modification to meet the actual needs. 4.7.3. Parallel online To complete the construction of all application systems, including user end setup, and to execute parallel online which means that the information system managers operate the new system at original operation process to see the difference of new operation system and original operation process so as to adjust the operator habit.
4.7. Implementation procedure After developing the application system, a complete implementation procedure was developed
4.7.4. Education and training Education and training on the system architecture will be given to MIS personnel and then marketing
Fig. 3. Network and hardware framework illustration of WEGS.
H.-P. Fu et al. / Computer Standards & Interfaces 27 (2005) 371–381
personnel to ensure that they can help visitors to operate the PDAs to browse the exhibition contents. 4.7.5. Official online In addition to the reliability of system operation, press conferences or relevant promotional activities will be organized after the system is officially online to allow visitors understand the educational meaning and other value-added services, such as local tour and discounts, of the PDAs exhibition guide service of NMMBA. 4.8. Operational model The project aimed to present the diversity of Taiwanese marine biology by combining ecology and aquarium exhibitions with wireless network technology and information technology (IT), in order to allow visitors to experience’ the ocean world and appreciate the beauty of marine biology and ecology. The WEGS therefore combined audio, video, pictures, and texts. To provide an attractive, interesting, and beneficial digital technology to the public, the WEGS included: ! ! ! !
!
rental of wireless exhibition guide devices; gift sales through wireless exhibition guide devices; e-coupon download; personal information convenience store services (CD-ROM burning and production of personalized products); and advertisements.
The system would be meaningful only if it attracted visitors after implementation. However, because most visitors were not accustomed to wireless broadband networking, it was necessary to educate visitors through promotional activities. The promotional strategy included the following elements. ! ! ! !
The promotions were targeted at young visitors, with a focus on new knowledge. The rental fee for the PDAs was set at NT$100 (about US$3.00). The PDA exhibition guide service and its benefits were promoted to the public. Travel and discount (accommodation and restaurants) information of nearby areas were published on the system to motivate visitors to rent the service.
377
! The system was promoted through the Ancient Marine Biology Exhibition held at the NMMBA at the beginning of the operation. The promotion was continued with graphic media or broadcasting. 4.9. Features and implications The establishment of a diversified and interactive WEGS helped to alleviate the monotonous and inadequate contents of the current exhibition guide, and the inadequacy of space. It provided a new tool that combined communication technology, education, information, museum exhibitions, and network resources. Some features of this project were summarized as follows. 4.9.1. Multidimensional exhibition guide service The exhibition guide was officially transformed into a multidimensional education activity. Instead of receiving exhibition facts passively, visitors could actively inquire about exhibition information. Visitors thus obtained a better appreciation of exhibition themes by being exposed to multi-media mobile exhibition guides. The multidimensional exhibition guide service provided another option for visitors who could not receive the service at a certain point and time— including visitors who did not want to rent the voice exhibition guide or buy the exhibition guide manual. 4.9.2. Multiple integration of education resource In addition to integrating conventional text and voice exhibition guides, the system could combine multiple education channels (such as databases, networks, pictures, animations, games, evaluation tests, and competitions), and users could choose the channels with which they were familiar. 4.9.3. Beginning of autonomous learning The use of PDAs allowed visitors to choose to learn things in which they were interested with almost no limits on time and space. 4.9.4. Promoting wireless communication to the public The WEGS attracted users who were familiar with, and interested in, using PDAs. These users were
378
H.-P. Fu et al. / Computer Standards & Interfaces 27 (2005) 371–381
thus given an opportunity to try new wireless technology. Moreover, WEGS is the wireless application service that integrates visual, audio, and data search functions to provide real-time text, graphic, and audio-visual information or data search services for visitors according to their location. As it thus provides concurrent and live exhibition guide service to visitors to meet their needs immediately, the implications of the project are: (1)
(2)
(3) (4)
(5) (6)
Instead of replacing the theme of the exhibitions, it presents the theme of the exhibitions in a more vivid and interesting way. Instead of spoon-feeding information to visitors, it allows them to choose what they are interested in. Instead of a location-based service, it provides services over the ubiquitous wireless network. It provides well-designed explanatory notes to allow visitors to have an easy-to-use and pleasant experience. It integrates features of e-education, such as selflearning, self-evaluation, data search, and links. It provides more value-added services when integrated with communication and network technologies in the future.
4.10. Summary of case study This case was the first implementation of WS supported by the government in Taiwan. It was commended for its success at an eAsiaweek seminar held in Taipei in 2003 by the Asia Pacific Council for Trade Facilitation and eBusiness (AFACT). In summary, the implementation was a success for the following reasons. !
!
!
Meeting the customers’ needs: The museum investigated the expectations of customers before planning the project, and then designed the WEGS on this basis. Government support: By relying on a government committee to provide valuable recommendations on the WEGS implementation, the risk of failure was significantly reduced. Support from top management: Top management was determined to implement this project. Because
!
the implementation of WEGS concerned all departments of NMMBA, management took part in this project from the planning stage to the final implantation. Experienced team: The promotion team included NMMBA team (who had experience in implementing IT systems) and a wireless-communication technology team who also had experience in implementing wireless network environment. There was therefore an integration of wirelesscommunication technology, Internet and information technology, and the domain of the NMMBA.
From the case study, it is apparent that the implementation of WEGS involved: ! ! !
! !
identifying users; analyzing and understanding users’ needs; planning and designing a wireless service model that met the operational goals and customer needs; design and implementation of a suitable system; and development of a promotional strategy.
5. Proposed model for implementation of a wireless system On the basis of the above case study, and a review of m-commerce frameworks, an implementation model for a wireless system is proposed. 5.1. Review of m-commerce frameworks Jenley [15] proposed two key success factors for m-commerce: (i) a complete and reliable e-commerce framework; and (ii) an effective m-commerce measurement mechanism that identifies the benefits of mcommerce. Carlson and Walden [16] stated that the major issue of m-commerce is to find out a method to measure the values that are brought to users by these mobile application systems. According to Clarke [7], the key success factors are: (i) the enterprise ability to use the unique properties of mcommerce to create strengths by building on the competitiveness of e-commerce; and (ii) the provi-
H.-P. Fu et al. / Computer Standards & Interfaces 27 (2005) 371–381
sion of consumer-oriented services. Durlacher Research [17] considered that m-commerce is successful because: (i) it is easy to personalize services; (ii) it facilitates user positioning; and (iii) it provides local service and business features. In the view of Siau and Shen [18], the keys to success in mcommerce are as follows: (i) early development of customer trust-customers’ facility with the enterprise; enterprise reputation; quality of information provided; and third-party recognition and certification, and (ii) ongoing development of customer trustquality of website, competency of enterprise, enterprise structure, privacy strategy, security-control mechanism, group establishment, encouragement of interaction, and external audit mechanism. According to Keen and Mackintosh [19], a focus on customer value and consumer orientation is helpful in implementing m-commerce. Anckar and D’incau [20] stated that a focus on technology is a common problem with both m-commerce and ecommerce service providers because this indicates that they have overlooked the importance of customer orientation. Chambers [21] believed that the key to success in promoting m-commerce is the provision of the right tools to users. Such tools should provide convenience, confidentiality, organization ability, and security. According to Middlemiss [22], mobile devices or mobile application systems should be supported by a unit that offers solutions at all times. Such a unit should establish an efficient help desk (or call center) and support system. Regarding the framework of m-commerce, Siau et al. [6] stated that the major technologies of mcommerce included communication, information exchange, and location identification. The five major sections of the m-commerce framework proposed by Sairamesh et al. [23] included: (i) mobile devices; (ii) a WAP gateway; (iii) a transcoding proxy server; (iv) a mobile provider; and (v) an e-commerce server. The software operational framework of m-commerce includes enterprise software, mobile enterprise middleware, and handheld devices [24,25]. Lussanet [24] indicated that the mobile enterprise middleware should provide the following functions: (i) mobile capability; (ii) packaged application support; (iii) management capability; and (iv) security, scalability,
379
and standardization. Varshney et al. [26] discussed the importance of an m-commerce framework—including applications, user infrastructure, wireless middleware, and network infrastructure. The present authors have compared the differences between implementing WS and implementing IS. In general, most studies on IS implementation have been enterprise-focused. They focus on BPR and information integration with computers and Internet devices based on Internet protocols. Their concept of service quality depends on devices, cables, and bandwidth. IS is seen to enhance work efficiency and the level of customer service. In contrast, this paper focuses on WEGS in terms of customer convenience, and posits that this enhances the level of customer service. The present authors therefore emphasize design reliability, interesting (and up-to-date) information, and integration of software, hardware, and wireless communication technology with middleware that is based on the Internet and communication protocols. With this approach, service quality depends on information transportation speed with wireless and obstruction of metal and liquid. This model is therefore
Table 1 The difference of characteristics between wireless system and IS Item
IS
Wireless system
Standard
Internet protocol
Information access device Hardware integrated
Computer
Management issue Software integration
Business process reengineering System integration with interface
Used technology
Internet and software
Information access quality
Stable (cable) and bandwidth
Internet and communication protocol Mobile device and computer Hardware, software, internet and mobile device Interaction service process design System and device integration with middleware Internet, software, mobile device and communication Depends on device, bandwidth, density of access point (wireless), and barriers of metal and liquid
Computer and internet device
380
H.-P. Fu et al. / Computer Standards & Interfaces 27 (2005) 371–381
different from the IS implementation model (see Table 1).
Table 2 Comparison of characteristics in WWAN-based and WLAN-based environments
5.2. Implementation model
Item
WLAN
WWAN
Users Data transfer
Specific users Private APs
Expenditure
Rental fee (or free)
Security and certification Management Information contents
Important
General users Through public APs of 3rd part Capacity of download Very important
On the basis of the above discussion, a reference implementation model for WS is thus proposed in Fig. 4. The important features are as follows. Firstly, understand the users of WS. Secondly, find out if the features of WS meet the needs of the users (as expressed by those users) [6,7,15,17–19]. ! Thirdly, consider the mode of operation of the current IS (as-is model) and evaluate the feasibility of implementing WS [15,20]. ! Fourthly, design a to-be model from the viewpoint of strategy and management [12,13]. ! Fifthly, in the realm of the software technical framework, the system should provide rich and interesting information, data transfer should be stable, and a suitable technology should be used [6,24]. ! Sixthly, a powerful implementation team is needed, and key performance indicators (KPI) are required to measure the implementation performance [15,16]. ! Seventhly, after implementing the system, a WS operation model should be developed [22,24], and the organization of the enterprise can be adjusted, if necessary, to ensure the smooth operation of the model [6]. Improper operation is caused by management negligence [19]. ! !
!
Self-management Professional information
With third party General service
Eighthly, user trust and convenience should be established, and customer incentives should be considered from the viewpoint of users to promote the system [20,21].
5.3. Differences between a WLAN-based framework and a WWAN-based framework Depending on whether the model of WS is applied to a WLAN-based framework or a WWAN-based framework, different concepts need to be considered. Table 2 shows these different characteristics. The above comparison is not conclusive. It is merely an indication of the different features of a WLAN-based framework and a WWAN-based WS framework. In general, the implementation of a WWAN-based environment focuses on offering general information for general customers, and more attention is therefore paid to information security and certification. To attain service of high quality (and
Fig. 4. Implementation model of wireless system (WS).
H.-P. Fu et al. / Computer Standards & Interfaces 27 (2005) 371–381
higher financial goals), professional teams are needed to maintain system operations. It might even be necessary to define the operational model (or financial sharing) with a third party—such as a wireless phone service provider. In contrast, implementation within a WLAN-based environment aims to provide professional information for specific customers. The emphasis is therefore on rich and professional information, and handling the establishment of information contents. The location of access points and the system capacity during peak hours must be considered if good service quality is to be provided. There is less dependence on third-party service. It is therefore apparent that different considerations apply to the implementation of WS on a WWANbased framework as opposed to a WLAN-based environment.
6. Conclusions The present study has presented a case study of the integration of software (and hardware) wireless technology with multimedia database applications to implement a WEGS. The system has the potential to integrate with mobile phones, networks, notebook PCs, and other communication systems to offer services of better quality. Following the case-study presentation, the study investigated the success factors in mcommerce implementation, proposed a possible WS implementation model, and analyzed the differences between WS and IS. The study shows that different implementation models and strategies are needed— according to the needs and purposes of the system, and whether the system is a WWAN-based framework as opposed to a WLAN-based environment.
References [1] Ovum Research, Global outlook for the wireless market in 2003, Ovum Research Center, 2003, http://www.ovum.com/. [2] IDB, NMMBA Wireless Broadband Network Pilot Project Report, 2003. [3] F. Mueller-Veerse, Mobile Commerce Report, London: Durlacher Research, 2000. [4] A. Gunasekaran, E. Ngai, Special Issue on Mobile Commerce (M-commerce): Strategies, Technologies and Applications (MCSTA), Decision Support System (2003).
381
[5] P. Tarasewich, R.C. Nickerson, M. Warkentin, Issues in mobile E-commerce, Communications of the Association for Information System 8 (2002) 41 – 64. [6] K. Siau, E.P. Lim, Z. Shen, Mobile commerce: promises, challenges, and research agenda, Journal of Database Management 12 (3) (2001) 4 – 13. [7] Irvine Clarke III, Emerging value propositions for M-commerce, Journal of Business Strategies 18 (2) (2001) 133 – 148. [8] R. Vaidynathan, Wireless and mobility enterprise application deployments, EAI Journal (2002) 26 – 28. [9] K.Y. Lee, J. Yun, G.S. Jo, MoCAAS: auction agent system using a collaborative mobile agent in electronic commerce, Expert Systems with Applications 24 (2) (2003) 183 – 187. [10] D. Holland, S. Kumar, Getting past the obstacles to successful reengineering, Business Horizons (1995) 79 – 85. [11] A. Kemal, C. Alok, K. Sashidhar, Business process reengineering and organizational performance: an exploration of issues, International Journal of Information Management 18 (6) (1998) 381 – 392. [12] J.L. Harbour, The Process Re-engineering Workbook, Quality Resources, New York, 1994. [13] T.H. Davenport, J.E. Short, The new industrial engineering: information technology and business process redesign, Sloan Management Review 31 (4) (1990) 11 – 17. [14] M. Hammer, The superefficient company, Harvard Business Review 79 (8) (2001) 82 – 91. [15] J. Jenley, Building the case for mobile business, Global FO Agenda (2002) 46 – 47. [16] C. Carlson, P. Walden, The mobile commerce: a summary of quests for value-added products and services, Proceedings of the 15th Bled Electronic Commerce Conference, 2002, pp. 17 – 19. [17] Durlacher Research: Mobile Commerce Report, 2000, http:// www.durlacher.com/downloads/. [18] K. Siau, Z. Shen, Building customer trust in mobile commerce, Communications of the ACM 46 (4) (2003) 91 – 94. [19] P. Keen, R. Mackintosh, The Freedom Economy: Gaining the M-commerce Edge in the Era of the Wireless Internet, Osborne/McGraw-Hill Publication, Berkeley, CA, 2001. [20] B. Anckar, D. D’incau, Value creation in mobile commerce: findings from a consumer survey, Journal of Information Technology Theory and Application 4 (1) (2002) 43 – 64. [21] L. Chambers, Turning your car into a mobile office, Office Solutions Magazine (2002 July/August) 21 – 22. [22] J. Middlemiss, Help-desk support is key to wireless success, Wall Street and Technology (2002 Sept.) 43 – 46. [23] J. Sairamesh, I. Stanoi, C.S. Li, Wireless trading in B2B market: concepts, architecture, and experiences, Communications of the ACM (2001) 7 – 13. [24] Michelle de Lussanet, Mobile Enterprise Apps Need Middleware, The TechStrategy Report, Forrester Research Center, 2002 (December). [25] Forrester Research, Mobile Enterprise Apps Need Middleware, The TechStrategy Report, December, 2002, http:// www.forrester.com. [26] U. Varshney, Multicast support in mobile commerce applications, Computer 35 (2) (2002) 115 – 117.
