SMEs urged to take up broadband

Small firms could be losing out on opportunities to grow their business or improve efficiency by not embracing broadband, it has been suggested.

Web experts from the UK Online and the Institute of Directors have created a handbook to help convince small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) of the potential benefits of broadband.

The guide includes basic information about the best ways to tap into the power of the internet to build a business, as well as tips on how to set up a professional website.

"Being online nowadays is fundamental as the internet has placed almost unlimited information and choice in the hands of the consumer," said UK Online managing director Chris Steyning.

"Not having a website, even a basic site which describes your business and provides contact details, is a serious omission as the first thing most people do now is Google for what they want searching for websites to compare services and products before buying."

Mr Steyning's concern seems justified, as recent Eurostat figures show the UK trails the rest of Europe, with just 77 per cent of SMEs making use of broadband - compared to between 86 and 89 per cent for France, Spain, Sweden and Finland.

Businesses without broadband are also missing out on the cost saving and efficiency opportunities provided by VoIP services, which could be key to the success of a new or small firm.

Posted on: 2007-11-02, in: Broadband

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