Determinants influencing Consumer Perceptions of Web Site Trust and Outcomes

Unlike the traditional bricks-and-mortar marketplace, the online environment includes several distinct factors that influence Web site trust. As consumers become more savvy about the Internet, the author contends they will insist on doing business with web companies they trust. This study examines 1) how Web site trust is affected by the following web purchase-related factors: security, privacy, brand name, word-of-mouth, good online experience, and quality of information, and 2) how it influences outcomes. Unlike Urban and colleagues' study (2000), the author argues that not all e-trust building programs guarantee success in building Web site trust. In addition to the mechanism depending on a program, building e-brand trust requires a systematic relationship between a consumer and a particular web site. The findings show that Web site trust does not build one or two components but are established by the interrelationships of complex components. By carefully investigating these variables in formulating marketing strategies, marketers can cultivate brand loyalty and gain a formidable competitive edge.