Application of electronic signatures in business and their influence on electronic commerce implementation

Abstract

The internet has changed how participants around the world view telecommunications, buying, selling and transactions. Electronic Commerce (EC) and Electronic Signatures (ES) make it possible for enterprises to expand their business activities locally and globally. Quayle (2002) suggested that implementing ES leads to enhanced opportunities to increase competitiveness, to reach new partners, suppliers and markets, and to develop seller/buyer relationships. This paper will outline the nature of an electronic contract to explain that electronic signatures are built on digital signatures that are meant to guarantee authentication, integrity, privacy and nonrepudiation.