Developing a Web 2.0 Business Portal to Benefit SMEs, Industry, Local Government, and Consumers

This article presents a research study into the development of a Web 2.0 B2B and B2C horizontal portal from the perspective of Actor-Network Theory, and the benefits for its participants particularly Small and Medium Enterprises. Whilst International service providers such as eBay, Linkedin and Google have revolutionised transactions for both businesses and consumers, this paper focuses on Australian Internet users and the online experience of Consumers and Small and Medium Enterprises, and includes an overview of user levels of computerisation, technology in Australian households and businesses, and e-commerce of Small and Medium Businesses. The research presented here highlights a major factor in proposing the referenced business model combining Web 2.0 tools with traditional online search with the critical factors underpinning its need and success – a subsequent working example is presented. To support this, the article briefly examines user expectations and experiences when engaging in e-commerce and the rise of Web 2.0 and social commerce, in creating a virtual workforce where SMEs are able to compete more effectively against their larger counterparts.