We are delighted to be supporting the "Most Promising New Business" category again this year at the British Chambers of Commerce awards. BT shares a common goal in wanting to help small businesses grow and succeed, whether they are just starting out or have been in business for a while. Over the next few years, the small business sector is destined to become the real economic powerhouse of UK PLC. The DTI predicts that now is an ideal time to capitalise on the predicted expansion of the small business market both in terms of numbers and opportunities. While priorities for small businesses may vary over time, by company and by marketplace, the main issues facing SMEs have not changed. In fact, it is unlikely that they will ever change. That is why this particular award is so interesting, because it is specifically designed to recognise the efforts involved in starting a business. The winner of this award will have demonstrated that they have understood the importance of having developed a measurable plan, having done the appropriate research into the business opportunity and will then have translated that into financial performance and customer successes. Particularly important is the way in which the use of technology has been fundamental to the overall operation of the business. Before embarking on a new venture, it is vital that owners get the right advice and don’t delude themselves that they can do everything. With new technology now such an integral part of business life, being able to compete with larger and more established competitors need not hinder a start-up’s progress and its ability to attract customers. Looking, sounding and acting like a big company is more than achievable in today’s age of technology. As the cost of technology has come down, small businesses are now able to afford the same technology as their competitors and obtain the professionalism needed to attract a great range of customers from day one, ensuring their business runs effectively and, more importantly, profitably. Before investing in technology it is crucial to choose wisely before parting with any cash. Think about where the business might be in five years time and make sure the technology can be easily upgraded as the business grows or changes. Also, don’t scrimp on office essentials. If one of the main keys to success is building a professional outlook for the company, then the last thing the business needs is a potential customer not being able to contact anyone because the technology is second rate or lacks after-sales support. We have seen the availability of low cost broadband connectivity and the widespread adoption of open standards prompt the emergence of the digital networked econmomy. In fact, we helped design and build some of the basic infrastructure. The consequences of the digital networked economy are not just confined to large organisations. Every company, large and small, will have to face the reality of operating in a connected economy as customers expectations continue to rise and the competitive landscape is changing. To operate and compete in this new networked environment, SMEs will have to learn to use technology as an integral part of their business operations. It will have to become as natural a business tool to them as the phone or the photocopier. BT offers a range of business solutions and services to SMEs to help them meet their operational and strategic needs in the demanding environment of the digital networked economy. We work with over 1.5 million small firms across the UK to offer them a comprehensive range of traditional telephony through to more complex technology needs. So whether it's mobile working, broadband access or value-for-money calls, BT Business can help give you a competitive edge and ease the day-to-day pressure of running a business. For more information, please visit www.bt.com/business/bcc |
