Designing an e-marketplace prototype for wood-based product industry in Malaysia: A concept that fits reality

Rapid growth and expansion of information and communication technology (ICT) have set the pace for an electronic revolution leading to adoption of e-marketplace within the small and medium enterprises (SMEs). The advent of Internet offer many business firms new opportunities and benefits. Thus ICT promises to even further bolster the SMEs’ position as the engine of growth for the Malaysia economy. However, there are various challenges and issues in setting up an e-marketplace in developing countries which appear to impede the growth of e-marketplace. We discuss the realities of electronic marketplaces for developing countries and illustrate the concept by designing an e-marketplace prototype to facilitate trade in wood-based products of Malaysia. Social and technical issues are highlighted and future directions are recommended.