New research conducted by MYOB, Australia’s largest business management solutions provider, has found a significant decline in proactive online business activity among small to medium businesses.
MYOB’s July 2012 Business Monitor survey of 1,004 SME operators found the proportion with a business website rose slightly in the past few months, from 36 per cent in March 2012 to 38 per cent. However, it also discovered online business activity, including online transactions; email marketing and social media was in decline.
MYOB CEO, Tim Reed says, “The decline in popularity of online business activities was completely unexpected, particularly that of online marketing and social media. Many of these tools, such as a basic Linkedin page, are free and can be used to raise the profile of a business and to communicate with customers.”
“What I’m really pleased to see is the rise in SMEs with a website. I encourage all business owners to consider creating their own if they haven’t already. Getting a website started is within every small business’s reach.”
According to Mr Reed, Australia’s internet audience reaches 16.2 million in May 2012. “Websites are a great way to attract new customers and to keep existing customers loyal, which can only have a positive effect on cashflow.”
For more information on MYOB research results visit myob.com.au