Resumen
The article focuses on the different ways in which web-based shopping is perceived by men and women of the U.S. Women have yet to welcome web-based shopping as readily as men as of August 1, 2002. Understanding differences in perception of men and women will help vendors address this vital pool of consumers. Despite the dot-corn collapse, online retail sales continue to grow. According to the U.S. Department of Commerce, online retail sales increased over 19% from 2000 to 2001. The New York Times argued the Internet gender gap is disappearing. However, empirical evidence indicates that although men and women are equally likely to use the Internet for business and personal purposes, men are more likely than women to purchase products or services from the web. If the business community is equipped with an understanding of what motivates, encourages and discourages the female consumer from purchasing online, steps may be taken to meet these expectations and reach this growing segment of web users.