Tribhuvan University Public Youth Campus Dhobichaur, Kathmandu A Case Study Report On Daraz Submitted By: Diksha Kaphle Shrisha Adhikari Sandeep Gaire Submitted To Faculty of Management (E-Commerce) Public Youth Campus Tribhuvan University, Kathmandu Supervised By Er. Sanjay Kumar Sah In the partial fulfillment of the requirement for the degree of Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) Kathmandu February, 2024 Abstract In just over a decade, Daraz has revolutionized Nepal's e-commerce landscape, emerging as a pivotal force in the region's digital economy. Founded in 2012 with a vision to provide a comprehensive selection of products to a global customer base, Daraz has become the go-to destination for consumers, sellers and enterprises alike. Offering an extensive array of products spanning electronics, fashion, home essentials, and beauty items, Daraz has established itself as a one-stop shopping destination. Its business models encompass Business-to-Customer (B2C), Business-to-Business (B2B), and Customer-to-Customer (C2C) interactions, facilitating seamless transactions and fostering a vibrant marketplace. Daraz prioritizes customer satisfaction through user-friendly interfaces, secure payment gateways and efficient delivery services, supported by transparent customer reviews and ratings .Addressing challenges such as logistical complexities and building trust, Daraz has forged partnerships with reliable courier services and ensured product authenticity and responsive customer service. The report starts out by explaining the organization's management structure and emphasizing important players who are leading the business to success. After that, it discusses important issues that Thulo.com faces in its ever-changing operational environment, such as competitiveness, logistical limitations, and cyber security worries. A comprehensive SWOT analysis reveals the opportunities, threats, and internal and external strengths and weaknesses of the organization. Daraz’s technological innovation, robust brand presence, and varied product variety are its key differentiators. The competition and logistical difficulties, however, are significant drawbacks. Threats include fierce rivalry and unclear regulations, while opportunities for growth include joint ventures and expansion into unexplored regions. Moreover, Daraz contributes significantly to Nepal's digital economy by empowering local businesses, creating employment opportunities, and fostering entrepreneurship through its seller programs. Daraz's journey exemplifies how strategic planning, customer-centric approaches, and adaptability can propel an e-commerce platform to unprecedented heights, signaling a promising future for digital commerce in Nepal and beyond. ACKNOWLEDGEMENT This study has been prepared for the partial fulfillment of Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA). I am very grateful to the Department of Management, Public Youth Campus for giving me the key and opportunity to accomplish this Case Study. I would like to take this opportunity to express my profound gratitude to supervisor Er. Sanjay Kumar Sah, faculty of E-Commerce for his support and guidance that helped this case study at every stage and getting things done by sharing his valuable ideas and knowledge. His wide knowledge and logical way of thinking have created a great value to us. Therefore, we would like to convey our special thanks to him for his valuable guidance. I would also like to thank Mr. Balram Thapa, Campus Chief, Mr. Rameshwar Acharya, Program Director, PYC’s lecturers as well as others who have been directly or indirectly providing their encouragement & helping me with their valuable comments throughout this case study. I am extremely grateful towards Daraz for giving me permission to visit their office and for their overwhelming support and cooperation throughout the process which made it possible for me to conduct the study. Student Name (Reg. No.) BBA 6th Semester Diksha Kaphle(28711/20) Shrisha Adhikari Date: APPROVAL SHEET This is to certify that the report entitled ‘Daraz’ is an academic work completed by the ‘Diksha Kaphle, Shrisha Adhikari’& Sandeep Gaire is a case study carried out by fulfilling the nature and standard required for the partial fulfilment of the requirement for the Degree of Bachelors of Business Administration (BBA) at Public Youth Campus, affiliated to Tribhuvan University under the guidance and supervision of course instructor and college management. ………………………………. Er. Sanjay Kumar Sah Acharya Supervisor Date: ………………………………. Rameshwar Program Director TABLE OF CONTENTS UNIT-1 INTRODUCTION...................................................................................................... 1 1.1 Objective of the Study.......................................................................................................... 2 1.2 Research Methodology......................................................................................................... 2 1.3 Limitation of the study......................................................................................................... 3 UNIT-2 ORGANIZATIONAL STUDY.................................................................................. 4 2.1 Introduction to the organization........................................................................................... 4 2.2 Business Structure................................................................................................................ 5 2.3 Services Offered................................................................................................................... 6 2.4 Working of Daraz ................................................................................................................ 6 2.4.1 The Buying Process............................................................................................ 7 2.4.2 The Selling Process............................................................................................ 8 2.5 Business Model.................................................................................................................... 8 2.5.1 B2B Business Model.......................................................................................... 8 2.5.2 B2C Business Model.......................................................................................... 9 2.6 Organizational Challenges..................................................................................................10 2.7 Market Analysis..................................................................................................................11 2.7.1 Strengths........................................................................................................... 11 2.7.2 Weakness...........................................................................................................11 2.7.3 Opportunities.................................................................................................... 12 2.7.4 Threats.............................................................................................................. 12 UNIT-3 NETWORK INFRASTRUCTURE AND EDI.......................................................13 3.1 Introduction....................................................................................................................... 13 3.2 Types of Network used in Daraz........................................................................................ 13 3.3 Software Agents................................................................................................................ 14 3.4 EDI and Daraz ................................................................................................................. 15 UNIT-4 ELECTRONIC PAYMENT SYSTEM IN DARAZ.............................................. 16 4.1 Introduction........................................................................................................................ 16 4.2 Security System in Daraz................................................................................................... 16 4.3 Payment Problems in Daraz............................................................................................... 17 UNIT-5 NETWORK SECURITY SYSTEM........................................................................18 5.1 Introduction........................................................................................................................ 18 5.2 Security System in Daraz................................................................................................... 18 5.3 Security Threats..................................................................................................................19 5.4 Security Measures ............................................................................................................. 20 5.5 Types of security System Used in Daraz............................................................................21 UNIT-6 ONLINE MARKETING AND E-ENVIRONMENT IN DARAZ....................... 22 6.1 Introduction........................................................................................................................ 22 6.2 Importance of online Marketing in Nepal.......................................................................... 23 6.3 Online Marketing Tools used in Daraz...............................................................................24 6.4 E-Environment................................................................................................................... 25 6.5 SLEPT Analysis................................................................................................................. 26 UNIT-5 CONCLUSION AND SUGGESTION....................................................................28 7.1 Conclusion..........................................................................................................................28 7.2 Suggestions and recommendations.................................................................................... 29 REFERENCES.......................................................................................................................30 CHAPTER-1 Introduction Background introduction of Daraz This report draws upon secondary research conducted via internet searches, consulting library resources, and reviewing pertinent literature. Daraz has emerged as a leading online retail platform in Nepal, experiencing rapid growth across South Asia and Southeast Asia. Founded in 2012 by Muneeb Maayr (Founder) and Farees Shah (Co-Founder) under Rocket Internet, Daraz initially focused on online fashion e-commerce in Pakistan. Daraz Group now operates e-commerce platforms and logistics services in Bangladesh, Myanmar, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka, with Bjarke Mikkelsen serving as the current CEO. In May 2018, Daraz Group was . acquired by the Chinese e-commerce giant Alibaba Group from Rocket Internet Daraz, a powerhouse in the e-commerce realm, has reshaped thelandscapeof online shopping for Nepali consumers since its inception in 2012 by Jack Ma, the visionary founder. Originating in Hangzhou, China, the platform initially aimed to empower small Chinese exporters and entrepreneurs by providing themwithaglobal sales platform. Through strategic partnerships and milestones like the Alibaba-Yahoo collaboration in 2005 and the debut of Alibaba.com in 2007, Daraz solidified its position. Global expansion ensued with ventures like AliExpress in 2010 and itsIPO in 2014, establishing offices worldwide. Central to its success is a customer-centric approach, ensuring authenticity, easy returns, and responsive service, amplified by a robust mobile app experience. Furthermore, Daraz's impact extends beyond commerce, contributing to Nepal's digital economy and fostering entrepreneurship. In essence, Daraz's journey exemplifies how a blend of strategic vision, adaptability, and customer focus can propel an e-commerce giant to remarkable success. 1 1.1 Objective of the study The primary objectives of this study are: ❖ Investigate the influence of Daraz's e-commerce platform on the participation of Nepalese SMEs in international trade. ❖ Assess the impact of Daraz's technological advancements such as mobileapp development and logistics optimization, on e-commerce dynamics and consumer behavior within the Nepalese market. ❖ Analyze Daraz's role in shaping domestic and regional trade patterns, and Explore its implications for Nepal's business landscape, economic growth and market integration with neighboring countries. ❖ Examine the business model of Daraz Group as a subsidiary of Alibaba, focusing on its operational strategies, revenue streams and partnerships within the Nepalese market. 1.2 Research Methodology Our report is based on research. Therefore, we have made stringent efforts to collect data from various sources to ensure that our report encompasses a wide range of information, facts, and figures. We have gathered data from both primary and secondary sources, although we have relied more on secondary sources. Under the secondary method, we collected information by visiting the websites www.daraz.com.np and www.google.com, which provided a wealth of informative resources that proved to be vital. Similarly, under primary sources, we obtained information from Daraz personnel via telephone interviews and contacted users of Daraz to understand their perceptions towards online shopping. 2 1.3 Limitation of the study This report is a partial requirement of the practical exam in E-commerce for the BBA sixth semester conducted by Tribhuvan University. The report has been prepared and submitted within a prescribed limited time. Although we did our best to conduct a comprehensive study of this topic, there are still some limitations, which include: ● Since the report is based on secondary data, the findings are derived from the collected information. ● Personnel contacted via telephone were hesitant to provide us with a substantial amount of information, thus the primary data collected may not be 100% relevant. ● This report adheres to the prescribed format by Tribhuvan University for the practical exam report of the Bachelor's degree. ● The internet and publications lacked sufficient information on the subject of e-commerce activities in Nepal. ● The study has been conducted under limited time constraints. Thus detailed analytical study could not be conducted. 3 CHAPTER 2: Organizational Study 2.1 Introduction to the organization Daraz has established itself as a renowned and successful company, facilitating hundreds of transactions daily. The company embarked on its journey nearly 9 years ago with the goal of transitioning the offline market to an online platform and offering unbeatable deals. Daraz has consistently provided goods at competitive prices by minimizing retailer margins through direct engagement with wholesalers and traders. The company operates within the realms of both B2B (Business to Business) and B2C (Business to Consumer) transactions, establishing itself as a pioneer in the industry. Daraz empowers customers to choose the best products at the most affordable and reasonable prices. With features such as detailed product information, photos, customer questions, and reviews, customers can confidently make informed purchasing decisions online. Daraz also facilitates easy exchanges for items like clothing, allowing customers to request size changes at no additional cost. On average, Daraz attracts over 15,000 visitors daily, translating into more than 600 transactions per day. The strong web presence of Daraz has significantly shaped its different marketing strategy . Fig No.1: Daraz website Internet forums serve as platforms where individuals share their feedback about Daraz. The active presence of Daraz in these forums and on social media platforms is highly encouraging. Maintaining a Facebook page and building a following on Twitter are effective ways for the company to promote its new arrivals and special offers. Daraz has expanded its product offerings across multiple categories, demonstrating the company's desire to promote and connect with a global audience. 4 2.2 Business Structure Daraz.com.np is a leading online platform in Nepal that exclusively offers branded products, with no local items available. The website has experienced rapid growth and is recognized as the number one online marketplace in the country. Daraz.com operates differently from typical organizations, with eight distinct departments. 1. Sales: This department is responsible for sourcing quality products from buyers, ensuring excellent service, and on boarding sellers onto the Daraz platform. They also coordinate product photography and negotiate commission rates with sellers to provide competitive fixed prices on the website 2. Customer Service: Customer Service at Daraz.com.np is distinctive, involving order validation, processing, receiving inbound calls, and addressing customer complaints. The primary goal of customer service is to ensure customer satisfaction to encourage repeat purchase. 3. Public Relation: The Public Relations department at Daraz manages relationships with various stakeholders, organizes events, and handles the organization's reputation, including crisis management. 4. Quality control: The Quality Control department is responsible for product listing, providing details and approving listings, uploading and editing product pictures, and ensuring product quality before they are uploaded to the website. 5. Seller management: The Seller Management department at Daraz oversees seller accounts, assists with advertising, manages orders, and supports sellers in becoming top performers. They work to stimulate seller sales through promotions and address any quality or delivery-related complaint. 6. HR: The Human Resources department handles recruitment, selection, compensation, promotions, interviews, leave management, turnover rates, and overall performance record 7. Finance: The Finance department is responsible for financial planning, investments, expense management, and future forecasting. 8. Administrator: The Administrator department interacts with country managers, oversees overall planning, monitors workforce dynamics, and implements operational changes across various sectors within the organization. 5 2.3 Services offered Daraz is an instant solution for purchasing varieties of items of goods under a same website. Different sellers offer verities of items of products on Daraz website. Buyer can easily find and know about the products from Daraz’s webpage and order them easily. The product lines of Daraz are shown below: Men’s Fashion Women’s Fahsion Kids Clothing Footwear Accessories Bags and Wallets Men's Grooming Clothing Footwear Bags and Wallets Jewellery Beauty Care Accessories Women's Grooming Toys Accessories Babycare Footwear Toys Pet supplies Health and beauty Electronics and home supplies Dog Food Dog accessories Cat Food . Cat Accessories Beauty Tools . Hair Care . Fragrances . Makeup . Mens Care . Skin Care . Food . Supplements . Home living Mobile Tablets Audio Videos Computer Home Appliances Printer Security System . Activities . Gifts . Home Appliances . Accessories . Decors . Musical instruments . Furniture . Home decors . Frames . Sports . Kitchens . Adventures tools . Gardening Table 1: Items Available in daraz 6 Automobiles Riders Accessories Gloves Helmet Auto parts Gears 2.4 Working of Daraz Daraz provides a very flexible and user-friendly registration process for both sellers and buyers on their website. Below, we describe the registration process for both buyer and seller. 2.4.1 The Buying Process Daraz offers a flexible and user-friendly registration process for both sellers and buyers on their website. To purchase items on Daraz, a buyer must first create an account by providing basic information such as name, address, birthdate, and phone number. After registering, the buyer can select desired items and place an order by clicking "Buy Now”. Upon placing an order, Daraz sends a text message or email containing a validation code to confirm the purchase. If the buyer validates the order, the seller is notified and responsible for contacting the buyer to confirm the order details, address any queries, and arrange delivery. If validation is unsuccessful, a Daraz customer service agent contacts the buyer to validate the order. Typically, the entire process, from order placement to delivery, takes about 2-5 working days, depending on various factors. Most sellers on Daraz offer cash on delivery as a payment option for buyers. This streamlined process ensures a convenient and efficient shopping experience for customers using Daraz's website. Here's the listed process showing how a customer can buy through Daraz’s website: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. Select the Category Click on the desired Category View all the product under that category Click on the prefered product. Register for a personal account. Fig No.2: Products Checkout in Daraz 7 2.4.2 The Selling Process To sell through Daraz, a seller must have an account. Once an order is placed by a buyer, the details appear in the seller's account along with buyer information and selected product details. The seller's responsibilities include contacting the buyer to confirm the order, addressing any buyer queries, and delivering the product. Daraz charges the seller a percentage commission based on the final sale amount. One advantage for sellers is that they retain possession of their products until sold, avoiding the burden of unsold inventory. Additionally, sellers benefit from free marketing through Daraz's platform, which helps promote their products to a wider audience. 2.5 Business Model Daraz involves two business models. They are B2B and B2C. 2.5.1 B2B Business Model B2B e-commerce is defined as e-commerce between companies, dealing with relationships among businesses. Daraz engages in buying and selling goods to business organizations. Business organization products can be sold through daraz.com, which sells its products to intermediate buyers, who then sell to the final consumer. Fig No.3: B2B Model 8 2.5.2 B2C Business Model Business-to-Consumer (B2C) e-commerce involves transactions where businesses sell goods and services directly to consumers over the internet. This model, exemplified by Daraz, allows consumers to order products online, with Daraz handling delivery. However, B2C e-commerce is susceptible to security threats because consumers provide sensitive information like credit card details and personal data on business websites. The B2C model's reliance on online transactions raises concerns about the security and effective use of consumer information by businesses. These security and privacy issues contribute to the model's limited acceptance among consumers. Fig No.4: B2C Business Model 9 2.6 Organizational Challenges The following are the challenges for daraz: 1. Traffic and User Acquisition: ● Low website traffic: This could be due to poor SEO, lack of online marketing presence or an unappealing website design. ● High bounce rate: Users might be leaving the site quickly due to confusing navigation, slow loading times, or irrelevant content. ● Competition: Intense competition from established players like Jee vee, Sasto Deal, Hamro Bazar etc. can be a major hurdle in attracting new users. ● Mobile app optimization: The mobile app, the primary access point for many users, might have issues with performance, usability, and features compared to competitors. 2. Product and Inventory: ● Inventory management issues: Out-of-stock products or inaccurate inventory levels can lead to frustrated customers and lost sales. ● Uncompetitive pricing:Customers might find better deals elsewhere, leading to Thulo.com losing market share. ● Limited product variety: Expanding into niche categories and catering to diverse customer preferences could be an area for improvement. ● Logistics and fulfillment challenges: Ensuring timely and reliable delivery, especially in remote areas, can be complex and costly. 3. Customer Experience ● Customer service responsiveness: Inefficient or slow customer service responses might lead to customer dissatisfaction. ● Negative customer reviews: These can damage brand reputation and discourage potential customers. ● Inefficient customer service: Long wait times or unhelpful responses can lead to customer dissatisfaction. 10 2.7 Market analysis Market analysis is necessary to know about the strengths, weakness, opportunities and threaths. SWOT analysis is a framework for identifying and analyzing an organizations strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats. Identifying core strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats leads to fact-based analysis, fresh perspectives, and new ideas. 2.7.1 Strengths ● Secure Payment Gateway: Daraz prioritizes the security of its customers' financial information. They utilize a secure payment gateway that encrypts sensitive data, ensuring safe and reliable transactions. ● Regular Promotions and Discounts: Daraz frequently runs promotions and offers discounts on various products and categories. This allows customers to save even more money on their purchases and makes online shopping even more attractive. ● Customer support: Daraz app prioritizes customer satisfaction and offers efficient customer support through various channels. Users can reach out via phone, email, or live chat for assistance with any queries or concerns. ● Competitive pricing: Daraz is known for its competitive pricing strategy, often offering lower prices compared to its competitors. This attracts budget-conscious shoppers and makes it an appealing platform for value seekers. 2.7.2 Weakness ● ● ● No Direct Customer Interaction: No direct customer-seller interaction due to this sometimes fraud data can be spotted on websites. Need of Internet access: If tours and activities in remote areas where you aren’t able to get on the Internet, online activities might not be for you. You’ll need reliable Internet access to check your products and services that are made online. Security and Privacy issues: E-commerce platforms always face data security and privacy risks. Daraz needs to ensure robust security measures and transparent data management practices to build user confidence. 11 2.7.3 Opportunities ● Increased Reach and Customer Base: Daraz app boasts a large and engaged user base in Nepal, offering businesses a wider reach and the potential to tap into new markets and customer segments ● Expanding beyond e-commerce: Exploring additional services like online grocery delivery, bill payments, and travel bookings to create a more comprehensive platform. ● Digital marketing: Daraz can utilize digital marketing strategies like targeted advertising and social media campaigns to reach a global audience and build brand awareness. ● Growth in communication capabilities and methods: The evolving landscape of communication presents a wealth of opportunities for Daraz to expand its reach and impact in Nepal. 2.7.4 Threats ● Technical issues: Website crashes, app glitches, or payment processing errors can lead to customer dissatisfaction and lost sales. Daraz needs to prioritize robust technology and invest in cyber security measures. ● Shifting consumer preferences: Customer expectations are constantly evolving. daraz needs to invest in technology and user experience to stay relevant and meet changing consumer demands. ● Increasing Competition: The Nepalese e-commerce market is still evolving, attracting new players with innovative ideas and potentially lower prices. Daraz needs to stay agile and adapt to changing market dynamics. ● Facing negative feedback and reviews: Any negative comment, review, feedback, or criticism about the company can go viral quickly, damaging your brand’s image. So, customer service team has to be quick in effectively handling customer issues. ● Change in Legal and regulatory trends: In the ever-changing world that we live in, one of the best things a company can do is keeping up with industry trends. Companies that will not change according to their environment will disappear. 12 CHAPTER 3: Network Infrastructure and EDI 3.1 Introduction E-commerce network infrastructure is the collection of tools, services, and facilities that allow e-commerce businesses to operate. This includes networking equipment, hardware, software, devices, and servers. It also includes the network of systems and processes that manage these resources. The network infrastructure of Daraz includes: ● Web Servers: Daraz uses a network of web servers to host its website and manage user interactions. These servers handle incoming web requests, serve product pages, process orders, and manage user accounts. ● Database Servers: Daraz maintains database servers to store and manage vast amounts of product data, customer information, order details, inventory status, and other critical data required for operations. ● Content Delivery Network CDN): to ensure fast and reliable delivery of web content and images to users across different regions, Daraz likely leverages a CDN. This helps in optimizing website performance and reducing latency. ● Security Infrastructures: Given the sensitivity of customer data and online transactions, Daraz invests in robust security measures. This includes firewalls, intrusion detection systems, encryption protocols, and regular security audits to safeguard against cyber threat. ● Payment Gateways: Daraz integrates with secure payment gateways to enable customers to make online payments using various methods, such as credit/debit cards, mobile wallets, and cash on delivery. 3.2 Types of Network used in Daraz ● Internet: Daraz operates primarily over the public internet, allowing customers to access its website and services from anywhere in the world. The internet serves as the backbone for communication between users, servers, and other systems within Daraz's network. ● Local area Networks: Within Daraz's offices and warehouses, LANs are used to connect computers, devices, and servers. LANs enable fast and secure communication among employees and facilitate data transfer within localized environments. ● Wide Area Networks: Daraz utilizes WANs to connect its various offices, warehouses, and data centers located in different geographical locations. WANs ensure that data and resources can be shared efficiently across distributed locations. ● Payment Networks: Daraz integrates with various payment networks and gateways to facilitate secure online transactions. These networks handle authorization, processing, and settlement of payments between customers, banks, and merchants. 13 3.3 Software Agents Daraz, as a leading e-commerce platform, may utilize various software agents (also known as bots, crawlers, or automated tools) to streamline operations, enhance user experience, and optimize business processes. Some types of software agents that could be used by Daraz include: 1. Chatbots: Daraz may employ chatbots for customer support and engagement. Chatbots can assist customers in navigating the website, answering common questions, and providing personalized recommendations based on user preferences and browsing history. 2. Recommendation Engines: Software agents can analyze user behavior and purchase history to generate personalized product recommendations. Daraz might use recommendation engines to suggest relevant products to customers, improving cross-selling and upselling opportunities. 3. Fraud Detection Systems: To combat fraudulent activities such as payment fraud or account abuse, Daraz could deploy software agents that use machine learning algorithms to analyze transaction patterns and detect suspicious behavior in real-time. 4. Inventory Management System: Software agents can monitor inventory levels, track product availability, and automate reorder processes. Daraz might use inventory management agents to optimize stock levels and ensure timely fulfillment of customer orders. 5. Price Monitoring Tools: Daraz could employ software agents to monitor competitor pricing and market trends. These tools help adjust pricing strategies dynamically to remain competitive in the market 6. Customer Data Analytics: software agents can analyze large volumes of customer data to derive insights into customer preferences, shopping behavior, and trends. Daraz could leverage these analytics tools to improve marketing strategies and enhance customer experience 7. Logistics Optimization system: Daraz may use software agents to optimize shipping routes, manage warehouse operations, and coordinate logistics with third-party providers. These systems help improve delivery efficiency and reduce shipping costs 14 3.4 EDI and Daraz Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) is a standardized method of exchanging business documents electronically between trading partners. While specific details about Daraz's use of EDI are not publicly disclosed, we can discuss how EDI could potentially be relevant in the context of Daraz's e-commerce operations. 1. Suppliers Integration: Daraz may use EDI to integrate with its suppliers' systems for seamless order processing, inventory management, and shipment notifications. EDI enables automated communication of purchase orders, invoices, and shipment details, reducing manual effort and improving supply chain efficiency. 2. Order Fullfillment: EDI can facilitate real-time exchange of order information between Daraz and its suppliers or logistics partners. This streamlines the order fulfillment process, accelerates delivery timelines, and enhances visibility into order status for both Daraz and its customers. 3. Inventory Management: By leveraging EDI, Daraz can maintain accurate and up-to-date inventory records by automatically syncing inventory data with suppliers' systems. This helps prevent stockouts, optimize inventory levels, and ensure timely replenishment of popular items. 4. Logistics and shipping: EDI can be used to transmit shipping instructions, tracking details, and delivery confirmations between Daraz and its logistics partners. This enhances shipment visibility, improves coordination of transportation activities, and minimizes delays in order fulfillment. 5. Standardization: EDI promotes compliance with industry standards and regulations governing electronic transactions. By adhering to EDI protocols, Daraz can ensure data accuracy, security, and interoperability with diverse trading partners. Overall, EDI can play a significant role in optimizing supply chain processes, enhancing collaboration with suppliers and logistics providers, and ultimately improving the efficiency and reliability of e-commerce operations at Daraz. While the specific implementation details of EDI within Daraz's ecosystem may vary, leveraging EDI capabilities can contribute to competitive advantage and customer satisfaction in the dynamic e-commerce landscape. 15 CHAPTER 4: Electronic Payment System in Daraz 4.1 Introduction Daraz, a dynamic e-commerce platform in Nepal, embraces an advanced electronic payment system that facilitates swift and secure transactions. This system supports various payment methods, including credit cards, debit cards, and digital wallets like eSewa, simplifying the online purchasing process for customers. Daraz’s collaboration with Nepal Electronic Payment Systems (NEPS) further promotes the convenience of prepayments, enhancing the shopping experience on the platform. 4.2 Types of EPS Daraz, Nepal’s leading online marketplace, has integrated various types of Electronic Payment Systems (EPS) to provide customers with a seamless and secure shopping experience. Here are the primary EPS types used on Daraz: ● Bank Card Transactions: Daraz has partnered with Nepal Electronic Payment Systems (NEPS) to encourage the use of debit and credit cards on the platform. This partnership aims to convert customers from cash on delivery to prepayment, offering daily bank discount vouchers for card users. ● Digital Wallets: Daraz has collaborated with eSewa, Nepal’s leading digital wallet service provider, allowing customers to pay for their purchases through the eSewa wallet. This method is convenient for users who prefer digital wallet transactions and ensures a secure payment process. ● Cash on Delivery (COD): For customers who prefer to pay upon receiving their orders, Daraz offers the option of cash on delivery. This traditional method remains popular among users who are not accustomed to or comfortable with online payments. ● Credit Card Transactions: Customers can also opt to use their credit cards for online payments, providing a fast and secure way to complete transactions on Daraz. These diverse payment options cater to the varying preferences of Daraz’s customer base, ensuring that everyone can shop with ease and confidence. Daraz would likely prioritize features based on the needs of its customer base and regional payment preferences. The aim is to offer a seamless and secure payment experience to customers and sellers alike. 16 4.3 Payment Problems in Daraz Payment problems can be frustrating for both customers and sellers on Daraz or any e-commerce platform. Here are some common payment issues that users might encounter and potential reasons behind them. a) Payment Declined: This is a frequent issue where a payment is declined during checkout. Reasons could include insufficient funds, exceeded credit limit, incorrect card details, or security checks by the bank. b) Transaction Errors: Sometimes transactions fail due to technical glitches either on the Daraz platform or the payment gateway side. Network connectivity issues or server problems can also cause transaction failures. c) Delayed Payments: Sellers might face delays in receiving payments for completed orders. This could be due to payment processing issues, bank delays, or verification processes. d) Refund Delays: Customers often complain about delays in receiving refunds for canceled or returned orders. Refunds can take time to process depending on the payment method and banks involved. e) Unauthorized Transactions: Instances of unauthorized transactions or fraudulent activities can occur, causing security concerns for both customers and the platform. 17 CHAPTER 5: Network Security System 5.1 Introduction Daraz likely implements a robust network security system to safeguard its e-commerce platform against cyber threats and ensure the protection of sensitive user data. This system likely includes multiple layers of security measures such as firewalls, intrusion detection/prevention systems (IDS/IPS), data encryption, and secure socket layer (SSL) protocols to encrypt data transmitted over the network. Additionally, Daraz likely employs secure authentication mechanisms like multi-factor authentication (MFA) to verify user identities and prevent unauthorized access. Continuous monitoring of network traffic and behavior analytics helps detect anomalies and potential security breaches in real-time. Regular security audits, vulnerability assessments, and patch management practices are likely conducted to identify and mitigate security risks promptly. Overall, Daraz likely prioritizes a proactive and comprehensive approach to network security to maintain the trust of its users and protect against evolving cyber threat. 5.2 Security System in Daraz Daraz, as a prominent e-commerce platform, would prioritize a robust security system to safeguard its operations and protect user data. Here are key components that might be part of Daraz's security system. ● Secure Web Infrastucture: Daraz would likely use HTTPS protocol with SSL/TLS encryption to secure communication between users' browsers and its servers. This ensures that sensitive information such as login credentials and payment details are transmitted securely ● Secure Payment processing: Daraz would implement Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS) compliance for handling credit card information securely. This involves encryption of payment data, regular security testing, and strict access control measures. ● Data Encryption: All sensitive data stored in Daraz's databases, including customer information and transaction records, would be encrypted to protect against unauthorized access even if the data is compromised. ● Authentication and access Control : Multi-factor authentication (MFA) and strong password policies would be used to ensure that only authorized personnel can access sensitive systems and data. Role-based access control (RBAC) would limit permissions based on job roles. ● User Privacy: Daraz would comply with relevant data protection laws such as GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation) or local data privacy regulations to protect user privacy and ensure responsible handling of personal data. ● Secutiry Awareness and training: Regular training programs would educate employees about cybersecurity best practices and raise awareness about potential threats like phishing attacks. By integrating these security measures, Daraz aims to build trust among its users, maintain the integrity of its platform, and mitigate potential risks associated with operating in the e-commerce space. 18 5. 3 Security Threats Daraz, being a popular online marketplace, can face various security threats common to e-commerce platforms. Some potential security threats that Daraz might encounter include: ● Data Breaches: This is a significant threat where unauthorized parties gain access to customer information like names, addresses, payment details, and contact information. Such breaches can lead to identity theft and financial loss ● Phishing attacks: Users might receive fake emails or messages that appear to be from Daraz, prompting them to provide personal information or login credentials. This can lead to account compromise or financial fraud. ● Payment Fraud: Hackers might exploit vulnerabilities in Daraz's payment systems to steal credit card details or conduct unauthorized transactions. ● Fake Sellers: Malicious actors may create fake seller accounts on Daraz to scam customers by selling counterfeit or non-existent products. This can damage Daraz's reputation and cause financial losses to customers. ● DDoS Attacks: Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attacks can disrupt Daraz's services by overwhelming its servers with excessive traffic, making the platform unavailable to legitimate users. ● Supply Chain Vulnerabilities: Daraz's supply chain, including third-party vendors and logistics partners, can be targeted by attackers to gain access to sensitive data or compromise the integrity of products. ● Account Takeover: Attackers may use stolen credentials (obtained from data breaches or phishing attacks) to take over customer accounts on Daraz. This can result in unauthorized purchases or misuse of personal information. To mitigate these threats, Daraz should invest in robust cyber security measures such as regular security audits, encryption of sensitive data, employee training on security best practices, implementing multi-factor authentication, and continuous monitoring for suspicious activities. Additionally, fostering awareness among users about common security risks and how to identify them can help in preventing successful cyberattacks. 19 5.4 Security Measures To enhance security and prevent security threats on Daraz, the platform should implement a range of robust security measures. Here are several key measures that Daraz can implement: Secure Website Platforms a) Use HTTPS protocol to encrypt data transmitted between users and the Daraz platform. b) Implement Web Application Firewalls (WAFs) to filter and monitor incoming traffic for potential threats. Strong Authentication and access Control a) Enforce strong password policies for user accounts, including requirements for complex passwords and regular password update. b) Implement multi-factor authentication (MFA) to add an extra layer of security during login. Data Encryption a) Encrypt sensitive data both at rest (stored data) and in transit (data being transmitted over networks). b) Utilize strong encryption algorithms to protect payment information, user credentials, and other confidential data. Employee training and Awareness a) Educate employees about security best practices, including recognizing phishing attempts, the importance of secure password management, and handling sensitive customer data securely. b) Conduct regular security awareness training sessions to keep employees informed about emerging threats and preventive measures Fraud Detection and Monitoring a) Implement fraud detection systems to monitor transactions and user behavior for suspicious activities. b) Use machine learning algorithms to analyze patterns and detect anomalies that could indicate fraudulent activities. Secure Payment processing a) Partner with trusted payment gateways and implement Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS) compliance for handling credit card information securely. b) Use tokenization to replace sensitive payment data with non-sensitive equivalents to reduce the risk of payment fraud. By implementing these security measures, Daraz can strengthen its security posture and reduce the risk of security threats, thereby enhancing trust and confidence among its users and partners. Ongoing monitoring and continuous improvement of security practices are essential to adapt to evolving cyber threats. 20 5.5 Types of security System Used in Daraz Daraz, like many e-commerce platforms, likely employs a range of security systems and technologies to safeguard its operations and protect user data. While specific details about Daraz's security systems may not be publicly disclosed for security reasons, here are some common types of security systems that e-commerce platforms typically use, which Daraz may utilize as well. ● Firewalls: Daraz likely uses firewalls to monitor and control incoming and outgoing network traffic. Firewalls help prevent unauthorized access to Daraz's systems and protect against network-based attacks. ● Secure socket Layer (SSL): Daraz uses SSL protocols to encrypt data transmitted between users' browsers and Daraz's servers. This ensures that sensitive information, such as login credentials and payment details, remains secure during transmission. ● Web Application Firewalls: WAFs are designed to protect web applications, such as Daraz's website and mobile app, from various attacks, including SQL injection, cross-site scripting (XSS), and other common web-based threats. ● Data Encryption: Daraz likely encrypts sensitive data both at rest (stored data) and in transit (data being transmitted over networks). Encryption ensures that even if unauthorized parties gain access to data, they cannot read or use it without decryption keys. ● Tokenization: For payment processing, Daraz may utilize tokenization to replace sensitive payment information (e.g., credit card numbers) with non-sensitive tokens. This reduces the risk of payment fraud and minimizes the exposure of sensitive data. ● Secure Monitoring and Incident Response: Daraz continuously monitors its systems and networks for security threats and anomalies. In case of security incidents, Daraz likely has incident response procedures in place to investigate, contain, and mitigate the impact of such incidents promptly. It's important to note that effective security requires a combination of technology, policies, and practices. Daraz would also implement security awareness training for employees, conduct regular security assessments, and collaborate with cybersecurity experts to stay updated on emerging threats and best practices in the industry. 21 CHAPTER 6: Online Marketing and e-Environment in Daraz 6.1 Online Marketing Online marketing in Daraz Nepal involves utilizing various digital channels and strategies to promote products and drive sales on the Daraz platform. Here are key components and tactics of online marketing specifically tailored for Daraz in Nepal. Online marketing on Daraz in Nepal is a dynamic and essential strategy for sellers looking to reach a large audience and drive sales in the country's growing e-commerce market. Daraz provides a robust platform with various tools and features tailored for online marketing success. Sellers can leverage the Daraz Seller Center to manage product listings, optimize content, and analyze performance metrics. Promotional tools like sponsored products and homepage banners allow sellers to increase visibility and attract more customers. In Nepal, social media plays a significant role in online marketing, and Daraz integrates social media promotion with its platform. Sellers can benefit from Daraz's active presence on platforms like Facebook and Instagram to reach a broader audience and engage with potential customers. Additionally, email marketing campaigns and in-app notifications enable sellers to communicate directly with customers and promote exclusive deals or new product launches. Daraz Live, a live streaming feature, offers a unique opportunity for sellers to showcase products in real-time and interact with customers, enhancing engagement and driving sales. Furthermore, sellers can optimize their listings with relevant keywords and leverage customer reviews and ratings to build credibility and trust among Nepali consumers. Data analytics provided by Daraz empowers sellers to make informed marketing decisions based on performance insights and customer behavior trends. This data-driven approach allows sellers to continuously refine their marketing strategies and maximize their impact on the Daraz platform in Nepal's competitive e-commerce landscape. Overall, online marketing on Daraz in Nepal presents immense opportunities for sellers to grow their businesses and connect with a diverse and tech-savvy consumer base. Implementing a well-rounded online marketing strategy tailored to the Nepali market and Daraz's platform capabilities can significantly boost visibility, drive traffic, and increase sales for sellers on Daraz Nepal. 22 6.2 Importance of online Marketing in Nepal Online marketing, also known as digital marketing, plays a crucial role in the success and growth of businesses in today's digital age. Its importance stems from several key factors. Global Reach Online marketing allows businesses to reach a global audience beyond geographical boundaries. With the internet being accessible worldwide, businesses can market their products or services to potential customers anywhere in the world Target audience Online marketing enables precise targeting of specific demographics, interests, behaviors, and preferences. This targeted approach ensures that marketing efforts are directed towards individuals most likely to be interested in the offerings, leading to higher conversion rates Cost effectiveness Online marketing can be more cost-effective compared to traditional marketing channels like TV or print advertising. Digital marketing strategies such as social media marketing, email campaigns, and content marketing often require lower budgets but can yield significant results in terms of lead generation and sales. Measurable Results Digital marketing platforms provide analytics and reporting tools that allow businesses to monitor metrics like website traffic, conversion rates, click-through rates, and return on investment. Online marketing facilitates direct interaction and engagement with customers through social media platforms. This engagement helps build relationships, gather feedback, and address customer queries promptly, thereby fostering customer loyalty and satisfaction Enhance Engagement Table No.2 : Importance of Online Marketing In summary, online marketing is essential for businesses of all sizes and industries to thrive in a digital-driven marketplace. By leveraging digital channels effectively, businesses can expand their reach, engage with their target audience, build brand credibility, and achieve measurable results that contribute to long-term success. 23 6.3 Online Marketing Tools used in Daraz Daraz, being a leading e-commerce platform, utilizes various online marketing tools and strategies to promote products, engage customers, and drive sales. Here are some common online marketing tools and techniques that Daraz may use: ● Daraz Seller Centres: Sellers on Daraz Nepal can leverage the Daraz Seller Center, a platform that provides tools and resources for managing product listings, inventory, and promotions. Sellers can optimize product details, update prices, and monitor performance metrics. ● Products listing and Optimization: Creating compelling product listings with high-quality images, detailed descriptions, and accurate specifications is essential. Optimizing product titles and using relevant keywords improves visibility within Daraz's search results. ● Discounts and Deals: Offering promotions, discounts, and bundle deals can attract more customers. Daraz often hosts special events like "Mega Deals" and "Brand Mega Offers," which sellers can participate in to increase sales. ● Social Media Marketing: Offering promotions, discounts, and bundle deals can attract more customers. Daraz often hosts special events like "Mega Deals" and "Brand Mega Offers," which sellers can participate in to increase sales. ● Influencer Collaboration: Partnering with influencers and bloggers in Nepal who have a strong online presence can help promote products to their followers and drive sales on Daraz. ● Localized Marketing: Tailoring marketing campaigns to Nepali holidays, festivals (like Dashain and Tihar), and cultural events can resonate well with local consumers. These are just a few examples of online marketing tools and strategies that sellers can utilize within the Daraz ecosystem. The platform continues to innovate and introduce new features to empower sellers and enhance the overall shopping experience for customers. Sellers should leverage these tools strategically to maximize their visibility, engagement, and ultimately, their sales on Daraz. 24 6.4 E- Environment The e-commerce environment within Daraz in Nepal is characterized by dynamic growth and increasing adoption of online shopping among consumers. Daraz, as a leading e-commerce platform in the country, has played a pivotal role in shaping this digital landscape. One key aspect of this environment is the rapid expansion of internet connectivity and mobile usage, which has significantly enhanced access to online shopping opportunities. As more people gain access to smartphones and the internet, Daraz has capitalized on this trend by providing a user-friendly mobile app and optimized website, catering to the preferences of digitally savvy consumers. The e-commerce environment in Nepal also reflects the entrepreneurial spirit of local businesses and artisans, who leverage Daraz as a platform to showcase and sell their products nationally. This has contributed to economic empowerment and growth within the SME sector. Additionally, Daraz's support for various payment methods, including cash on delivery and digital payments, has enhanced convenience and accessibility for consumers, especially in a market where traditional banking services may not be widely accessible. Here are key aspects of the e-commerce environment specific to Daraz in Nepal: ● Rapid Growth ● Internet access ● Mobile Commerce ● Diverse Product selection ● Logistics and delivery challenges ● Payment Options ● E-commerce awareness ● Regulatory environment Overall, the e-commerce environment within Daraz in Nepal is characterized by innovation, competition, and a growing acceptance of online shopping as a convenient and viable retail option. As the digital ecosystem continues to evolve and consumer preferences evolve, Daraz remains committed to driving further growth and delivering value to both businesses and consumers in Nepal's dynamic e-commerce landscape. 25 6.5 SLEPT Analysis Analyzing Daraz using a SLEPT (Social, Legal, Economic, Political, Technological) framework provides insights into various external factors that impact the e-commerce platform's operations and strategic decisions in Nepal. Let's break down each component of the SLEPT analysis for Daraz. 1. Social Factors Consumer behavior Changing consumer preferences and increasing acceptance of online shopping in Nepal drive demand for e-commerce platforms like Daraz Demographics The demographic profile of Nepal, including a young and tech-savvy population, influences Daraz's target audience and marketing strategies Cultural Trends Cultural attitudes and preferences shape product preferences and marketing approaches on Daraz 2. Legal factors Regulatory Environment Intellectual Property Compliance with local laws and regulations governing e-commerce, consumer protection, taxation, and data privacy impacts Daraz's operations Legal considerations related to intellectual property rights, trademarks, and copyright protection affect Daraz's partnerships with sellers and brand representation 3. Economic Factors Market Growth Nepal's growing economy and increasing disposable income contribute to the expansion of the e-commerce market, benefiting Daraz Inflation and Exchange Rates Economic stability, inflation rates, and currency fluctuations influence consumer spending behavior and pricing strategies on Daraz Unemployment rates Employment levels impact consumer confidence and purchasing power, which in turn affects e-commerce sales 4. Political factors Government Policies Tax International Trade Political stability, trade policies, and government initiatives to promote digital economy influence Daraz's business environment Changes in tax policies, tariffs, and import duties impact the cost structure for Daraz and its sellers Political relationships with neighboring countries can affect cross-border trade and logistics for Daraz 26 5. Technological factor Digital Infrastructure Advancements in internet connectivity, mobile technology, and digital payment systems enhance the accessibility and usability of Daraz's platform Technological innovations like AI, data analytics, and automation improve operational efficiency and customer experience on Daraz The need for robust cybersecurity measures to protect customer data and prevent fraud is critical in the technology-driven environment of e-commerce. Innovation and Automation Cybersecurity By analyzing these external factors through the SLEPT framework, Daraz can better understand the opportunities and challenges presented by its operating environment in Nepal. This analysis informs strategic decision-making, risk management, and adaptation to changing market dynamics, ultimately supporting Daraz's continued growth and success in the e-commerce sector. 27 CHAPTER 7: Conclusion and suggestions 7.1 Conclusion The study examines the growing significance of e-commerce platforms in facilitating commercial growth and effective product marketing, particularly focusing on Daraz as a prominent online marketplace in Nepal. Daraz.com stands out for its adoption of cutting-edge technologies and commitment to user-friendly website design, continually expanding its product offerings to align with consumer preferences, income levels, and accessibility. The platform caters to diverse consumer needs by offering a wide range of products, including electronic gadgets, home appliances, fashion apparel, accessories, books, and more. Daraz emphasizes consumer convenience through intuitive product selection tools, price comparison features, and efficient order placement and delivery services. Payment options are varied, accommodating different preferences with methods like cash on delivery and credit card payments. Operating as a marketplace without maintaining inventory, Daraz.com connects buyers directly with sellers, hosting products from numerous brands to provide a comprehensive shopping experience. Overall, Daraz.com's strategic approach and technological advancements have positioned it as a leading player in Nepal's e-commerce landscape, driving the popularity and accessibility of online shopping in the region. Therefore, Daraz emerges as one of the top shopping sites in Nepal due to its growing popularity and widespread adoption by consumers across the country. Through this project, we can assess the state of online shopping in Nepal by analyzing the position of Daraz within this context. Despite its significant following and popularity, Daraz still faces competition from established organizations in the e-commerce sector. 28 7.2 Suggestions and recommendations Daraz, as a leading online shopping platform in Nepal, could benefit from several strategic recommendations to enhance its operations and customer experience. Here are specific recommendations for Daraz.com to enhance its operations and customer experience ⮚ Expand operations beyond Kathmandu Valley: Daraz.com should broaden its operations to encompass other regions in Nepal, reducing its focus on Kathmandu Valley and extending its services nationwide to reach a broader customer base. ⮚ Enhance Home Delivery Coverage: Increase the coverage of home delivery services to a wider geographical area, ensuring that customers from various locations can access the convenience of doorstep delivery. ⮚ Improve Delivery Speed: Optimize delivery services to minimize transit times and enhance overall speed, aligning with customer expectations for prompt and efficient order fulfillment. ⮚ Standardization of website: Focus on standardizing the website interface based on group-in and e-commerce standards, ensuring a cohesive and user-friendly experience for all visitors ⮚ Addressing Cyber Security Vulnerabilities: Combat increasing cybersecurity threats such as hacking, sniffing, and Denial of Service (DoS) attacks by implementing robust security measures and regularly updating defenses to protect customer data and transactions. ⮚ Expansion of Banking Transactions: Extend banking transaction capabilities to include other banks, providing more payment options and convenience for customers. By implementing these recommendations, Daraz.com can strengthen its market presence, improve operational efficiency, and enhance customer satisfaction, ultimately driving growth and success in the competitive e-commerce landscape of Nepal. It can strengthen its market presence and drive sustainable growth while delivering exceptional value to its customers. 29 References Saud, A.S. & Bhusal, R. (Year).E-commerce: Kriti Book and Publisher Adhikari, S.N. (2075). Essential of E-commerce and E-Business. Kathmandu: Buddha Publication. https://www.daraz.com.np/ https://www.google.com/ 30