[Introduction] Electronic commerce is the whole process of realizing electronization, digitization, networking and commerce by using computer, network and telecommunication technology. As an increasingly important development field in the information age, our modern life has become quite attached to e-commerce. So, which schools offer e-commerce-related majors? What are the professional skills taught in this major, and what are the employment prospects and salaries? How do netizens and UtoCanada view this major? Let's take a look!
Introduction to the Canadian E-commerce major
E-commerce is the direct product of the rapid development of the Internet and network technology. The Internet itself is known for openness, globalization, low cost, and high efficiency; thus, these characteristics have become the inherent qualities of e-commerce. E-commerce has greatly surpassed its value as a new form of trade. It not only changes the production, operation, and management activities of an enterprise itself, but also affects the economic operation and structure of the entire society. The "electronic" technology platform based on the Internet provides an incomparably wide development space for traditional business activities, and its outstanding superiority is simply unmatched by traditional media methods.
Pursuing a career in e-commerce means using advanced technology and software, as well as the most up-to-date business processes and strategies, to deliver quality products and services. With the substantial role of the Internet in business and the continual emergence of new technologies, professionals who are trained to implement e-business strategies are in high demand. E-commerce programs at Ontario colleges provide students with the business foundation necessary for success in this competitive industry.
So, what skills do students in this major need?
- Good oral and written communication skills
- Strong problem-solving skills
- Creativity and analytical thinking skills
- Passion and interest
- Eager to learn and face challenges
- Strong time management skills
What knowledge and skills do students learn in Canadian e-commerce majors?
In Canada, e-commerce courses combine basic business courses with e-commerce and technical professional courses. Students will learn to develop and apply new technologies and processes to minimize costs and maximize profits. E-commerce courses may include (but are not limited to):
- Computer networks
- Web application development
- Operation planning
- Database development
- E-marketing
Programs typically include business courses in basic accounting, economics, purchasing, human resources and customer service to teach students how to effectively manage a business and its many departments. Many programs also have work placements or co-op terms, giving students real-world experience and the chance to create business contacts.
Employment prospects of Canadian e-commerce graduates
E-commerce has brought opportunities to many industries such as government and public services, food, finance, and pharmaceuticals. Graduates will be qualified for many positions, including (but not limited to):
- Business Analyst
- Quality Supervisor
- Web Developer
- Resource, Distribution or Project Manager
The e-commerce industry has high expectations for comprehensive skillsets. For example, technical talents should have knowledge of programming, network technology, web design, art and design, security, system planning, etc. They are also required to have a good understanding of business processes, customer psychology, and customer service. Technical talents require computer proficiency, but considering that the final design of the system is to solve the management and business services of the enterprise, and it is necessary to analyze the needs of the enterprise’s target market. This type of talent should also be apprehensive of the enterprise’s processes, management needs and consumption. Students will have a certain understanding of psychology, and this will become a quality of e-commerce talents.
Business talents are still developing in traditional business activities. The difference is that they are users and service providers of virtual online markets. On the one hand, they are required to have expertise in management and marketing, and have knowledge of the new economic laws of virtual online markets. On the other hand, they must also gain knowledge of the basic operations of the network and e-commerce platform.
Comprehensive management expertise is hard to gain directly from schools, but can result from experience in the real-world environment.
With business and project management experience gained in e-commerce projects, graduates can qualify for entry-level management positions, which earn approximately $45,000 per year. This is higher than many other entry-level positions.
》Job description of an e-commerce development manager
According to the PayScale description,，
An e-commerce development manager is responsible for managing expectations and developing business solutions for the organization. They are responsible for formulating effective business plans to generate more revenue, develop brand loyalty, and increase customer satisfaction.
Their main responsibilities include brainstorming with other business developers to determine new opportunities, review requirements, and approve timelines. Also, they need to collaborate with other departments to monitor the progress of development. Generally speaking, these people have strong leadership skills to motivate employees, and they propose innovative solutions to development problems. Their main responsibilities include managing customer accounts and executing sales targets. These development managers work in an office environment, write reports, review business processes, and communicate with employees. They are proficient in office applications such as modifying spreadsheets and word processing to create proposals. They research and evaluate products while identifying competitors. They use statistical data to achieve company goals within a given time frame.
This job requires a bachelor's degree in business management, e-commerce management, or related fields. Work experience related to business development and management skills may be useful. Business acumen and leadership are a plus.
Specifically, the responsibilities of an e-commerce development managerinclude:
- Accomplish turnover targets.
- Maintain a good working relationship with previous clients, and improve customer retention and new sales through recommendations and references.
- Identify and develop new and existing referral sources.
- Actively seek potential customers by focusing on the sales strategies.
》E-commerce graduate salary: the decisive factors & annual income
According to PayScale statisticsin Canada, the average annual salary of an e-commerce development manager is $67,404 CAD, with the low-end salary at $44,000 and the high end at $102,000.
The best schools for e-commerce related majors in Canada
Many colleges in Canada offer one to three years of e-commerce related certificate and college diploma/honours programs. The curriculum is certified by the official industry association and taught by professors and instructors with senior experience in the industry. The colleges have a cooperative relationship with related companies and institutions so that students have the opportunity to participate in field trips and internships.
Fanshawe College
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Summary: UtoCanada's views on the e-commerce profession
In Canada, students can benefit from the range of courses taught by highly qualified industry experts, gain valuable experience from internship opportunities, and prepare for future career plans. If you are interested in learning about the latest technologies and business strategies and want to apply your skills to the e-commerce industry, then this major is for you.
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