MADISON, Wis. -- Online holiday shopping is in full swing, according to the associate dean at the University of Wisconsin Business School.

Deborah Mitchell, associate dean of enterprise MBA programs, said this season's tight economic times are driving retailers to ramp up their online deals earlier. Other experts said it's a way to get consumers into the shopping mood, although the success of the season is still up in the air, WISC-TV reported.

"It's definitely a make-or-break season for some businesses that are out there. So, they will be the ones who are putting all their chips on the table, and there will be some amazing deals available because those folks will have to make their targets, or they wont be here next year," said Mitchell.

Experts said this year's "Black Friday" totals are anticipated to be low, but "Cyber Monday" sales are projected to skyrocket, WISC-TV reported.