As a large vendor, we have determined that the small and/or start-up business market is very important to our corporation. In fact, we specifically cater to this market by creating and delivering customized broadband, voice and video communications solutions to help increase their productivity. The broadband revolution hits all businesses, even the new or smaller ones who once needed only calling services. We view their business success as our success and we will help them achieve their goals through a continuous consultative solutions dialogue that over time builds and sustains a relationship based upon reliability, trust and respect.
This dynamic has changed due to the fact that the small and/or start-up business market communications needs are increasing exponentially and spend is growing at an annual rate of 9 percent year over year as these businesses use modern communications tools in new ways. Recognizing this, we have created a strategic plan to grow with our customers by specifically providing "whole office" product solutions.
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Mike McLaughlin, Director, National Business Marketing, Strategy and Performance Management,
Verizon.
Small businesses have always been important to Microsoft. They continue to be the linchpin in fueling local economies with their innovative ideas and increasingly are turning to technology for a strategic advantage to thrive in today’s competitive economy.
Cost and time-conscious small businesses with limited IT staff that are inundated with tech jargon and hype have become increasingly distrustful. It’s critical to understand how small businesses view technology and look to it to solve their core pain points. Microsoft has spent a lot of time listening to specific customer pain points and the top four are:
• How can I do more with less?
• How do I keep my existing customers while attracting new ones?
• How do I enable my employees to be more efficient and productive?
• How do I manage my budget/finances?
IT vendors are hungry for a piece of this pie with many recognizing the $32 Billion market opportunity (According to AMI). However the challenges remain that this is a fragmented, vast (40 million worldwide) and extremely diverse market and quite frankly there has been no winning formula to reach this segment.
Microsoft’s investments in building targeted small business solutions to help them grow their business are successfully reaching the small business market. Microsoft understands its unique customers’ needs and consistently delivers affordable and applicable tools including online small business websites and resources to provide customers with technology that paves a way for their success. Microsoft works with partners and customers to ensure technology can be easily implemented, addressing customer pain points, and delivering on ease of use for customers.
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Doug Leland, General Manager, Small Business For Worldwide Small, Midsize Solutions and Partner Group,
Microsoft.com.
