Free e-commerce CD-ROMs for the public
30 - 03 - 2000

Members of the public can obtain a free CD-ROM with information and interactive demonstrations on e-commerce produced in Chinese, at government offices from April 1 (Saturday).

The CD-ROMs are produced by the Information Technology Services Department to enhance the public's knowledge of e-commerce and to encourage their application of e-commerce in daily lives.

As the CD-ROM is designed with a self-learning mode, members of the public can familiarise themselves with basic computer operation and interface application before learning the application of e-commerce by viewing the CD-ROM at any time and place convenient to them.

E-commerce generally refers to commercial activities conducted through electronic means such as the Internet, interactive televisions and public information kiosks.

Compared with the traditional mode of trade, e-commerce delivers quicker and more convenient services, requires lower operating cost and is not subjected to time and geographical constraints.

The e-commerce CD-ROM comprises two parts - the video compact disc (VCD) section and the interactive section.

The VCD section contains basic information on e-commerce including electronic tools, the Internet world, Electronic Service Delivery scheme, on-line shops, basic steps to get on-line and security measures for on-line trade.

The interactive section demonstrates the application of business-to-consumer and business-to-business types of e-commerce such as on-line services provided by real estate agents, banks and supermarkets, and on-line tendering systems.

The e-commerce CD-ROMs will be available at the following government offices from April 1:

• Post Offices;
• Community Halls, Community Centres and District Offices of the Home Affairs Department;
• public libraries;
• employment service centres of the Labour Department;
• Government Supplies Department; and
• Information Technology Services Department.

The CD-ROMs will be distributed while stock lasts.

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