Online Transaction Processing

1. Data Entry:

• Customer chooses which products or services to purchase.
• The order is finalized and a subtotal is shown.
• Customer information (shipping and billing information, email address) is collected.
• The order is submitted.

2. Database Maintenance:

• The customer information and the data resulting from the order is added the company's database.

3. Document and Report Generation:

• A receipt or sales invoice is generated.

4. Inquiry Processing:

• An order/transaction number is given to the customer.

Online transaction processing plays a key role in e-commerce. When a customer selects products to purchase from a Web site and enters billing, shipping, and contact information, that data is captured and added to the company's database. The customer is presented with a receipt or sales invoice (including an order or transaction number). The system usually generates a confirmation email to the customer as well. Finally, the customer can use the transaction number to return to the Web site and check the status of the order.