For those who have embraced e-commerce, it has enabled them to compete over larger geographic areas. It has created the opportunity for the creation of new businesses and, in some cases, has allowed small business to better compete with larger firms. Although the majority of small businesses do have access to the Internet and some are even participating in e-commerce, many others have been slow to put the tools in place. Most do not know how to effectively use the electronic arena to sell their goods and services via e-commerce. The vast majority of small businesses use the Internet to find information or simply post a website.
Small businesses are in a weaker position to embrace new technologies.
They often lack the skills, experience and resources to effectively compete. The cost of upgrades, site maintenance and equipment are all challenging to the small business owner. However, as important as those issues are, the real challenge is in educating small business owners regarding the huge structural shifts we will experience in the economy. We must sound the alarm to small business owners regarding these changes and provide assistance to help them adjust to this rapidly changing environment. Although we cannot change the market forces, we can help businesses realign their marketing strategy, become successful procurement bidders or exit if necessary.