Using the resource-based view (RBV) of the firm, this research examines how organizations integrate organizational resources with Web technology to implement Web functionalities to support the four stages of the Customer Service Life Cycle (CSLC). This research examines how combinations of Web functionalities impact the relative importance of the stages of the CSLC in determining customer satisfaction. The relative important of the stages of the CSLC varied depending on the product being considered for purchase (textbook, personal computer, and pair of jeans) and the gender of the online customer. Results of six regressions using policy capturing indicate that, overall, customers consider Web functionality support for the pre-purchase stages of the CSLC to be most important, with the requirements stage or acquisition stage consistently being first in importance. Post-purchase support showed increased importance with the purchase of a personal computer and textbook, and with male shoppers. Significant differences were limited with the retirement stage being significantly different from all the other stages in five post hoc tests, and from just the acquisition stage in the jeans test. By considering the products sold online and gender of the targeted online customer, organizations can invest their resources to build Web functionalities that incorporate values, culture, and processes to increase customer satisfaction with the Web site and influence firm performance.

­^¤åºK­n At the beginning of the 1990s, our government has invested aggressively into the field of Semiconductors and at the same time provided many opportunities and trainings for the professionals. This has enabled for the top professionals to excel in their respective field of work thus cultivating many outstanding manufacturers for the industry. Today, majority source of the automation equipments in the field of Semiconductors remains largely imported. These preferences lead to a higher cost ratio and cost effectiveness and has provided an uneven playing ground for our native corporations ready to take the overseas player head-on. Hereby, this report will focus on the nature of the product life cycle of the field to provide an insight to a suitable business and service model for our native corporations specializing in the mid and backend of Semiconductors to conform to the rigorous demand of the industry. The report also looks into individual corporations¡¦ competitiveness and their current roles in the supply chain for the industry. Their strategy and business model will be discussed and recommendations provided to improve their current practices to fulfill the evolving markets. The proposals and recommended business model can also be applied to other industries where the electro-optical industry and the next highly anticipated environmental friendly products industries could be adopt in the near future.