subscription process

E-com

the means by which users of a Web site sign up to receive specific information, content, or services via that Web site. Someone may become a subscriber as a result of giving personal information such as an e-mail address, or of making a payment if the subscription service is directly revenue-generating.

     The early Internet promoted a culture that encouraged the free transfer of information, so subscription processes were relatively rare. However, it is becoming clear that, in general, Web sites must pay for themselves, either directly through subscription or advertising revenues, or indirectly by delivering valuable information that will further the organization’s objectives. As the Internet evolves, many more Web sites will become subscription based.

     Subscription processes are also used to limit access to certain information. An extranet, for example, may contain confidential material, and a subscription process will be required to make sure that the right people have access to the right information.