This document discusses the importance of understanding internet usage and how marketers can strategically leverage the internet. It notes that consumers now spend about 33% of their time online for information, communication, entertainment, convenience and a sense of belonging. When used strategically and not just tactically, the internet can be used successfully in online retailing, financial services, education, travel, research, and collaboration. The document provides examples of how brands can create fan bases, do direct marketing and communication, strengthen their brand equity, do research, and build trust online. It advocates developing an internet segmentation strategy, defining internet objectives, and measuring results to make internet marketing part of an effective total communications plan.