Home-based e-business - an option for the self-employed ?
 

1.3. Aim of the study

The purpose of this study is to examine the difficulties e-business start-ups face, identify the criteria for setting up a home based e-business. It also investigates strategies for running a successful e-business in Hong Kong and assesses the options available for a self-employed person to set-up a viable home-based e-business in Hong Kong .

1.4. Research Methodology

In this paper, comparison studies are made on the different home e-business opportunities available, and the existing e-commerce supporting services between Hong Kong and overseas, in order to explore the opportunities and hurdles of e-commerce in Hong Kong environment. For the purpose of this study, a home-based e-business is defined as business that is performed at home and is conducted through the Internet. Much of the research in this study was carried out in the course setting up a true home-based e-business by the author. In fact, since the end of the study, the business has now grown to four full-time and two part-time staff, it is no longer a home business.

1.5. Structure of the dissertation

There will be a literature review on e-business in chapter two. In chapter three, different opportunities available for home-based e-businesses will then be explored. In chapter four, the essential components which goes into a successful e-business will then be examined and discussed with regard to the different types of e-business opportunities. In the final chapter, the different types of e-business opportunities are compared with particular regards to the situation in Hong Kong and conclusions are reached on whether and what type of home-based e-businesses are suitable for Hong Kong resident