Overview > Strategies

The Internet Economy was once considered by European to be a U.S. phenomenon. No more, by the end of 2002 there will be more Internet users in Europe than in the United States; by mid-decade European Internet commerce will equal that of the United States. - IDC

• Distributed Model: Between the two extremes of the Central and Decentralized model, many firms have pursued a hybrid model, based on the concept of central control and local empowerment. When implemented appropriately, this model provides the leverage of the Centralized Model, while maintaining the responsiveness of the Decentralized Model.

Leading global e-businesses are increasingly turning to the hybrid or distributed model as the preferred means of leveraging core marketing investments and technical expertise worldwide, while maintaining relevance to customers in local markets. Balancing the benefits of Central Control with the advantages of Local Empowerment is critical to the success of the distributed model. This balance can be achieved with appropriate strategic planning, technology, and processes for ongoing development of the global Web operation.