Just because a small business is located in a rural area, it doesn’t mean it can’t reach customers and resources from all over the world. Today’s technology — from high-speed internet over fiber to cloud-based solutions — offers the opportunity for the owners of these businesses to enjoy the best of both worlds. They can live and work in the small communities of their choice and still have access to the “big city” communications services required to work efficiently and remain competitive.

SCORE, a source of free and confidential small business advice for entrepreneurs and small businesses, suggests employing these strategies:

• Use technology to connect with new markets, collaborators, and customers. Cloud-based communication tools such as VoIP, Hosted PBX, online portals, and social networks help small businesses build stronger relationships and more satisfied customers. They also support the rise of the virtual workforce, allowing employees to work from home (or anywhere with an internet connection).
• Capitalize on technology’s scalability and flexibility. A small business that experiences a surge of orders, for example, can use pay-as-you-go cloud services to quickly scale to handle the traffic and prevent the website from crashing. Cloud services can also be easily downscaled when IT requirements change. The use of on-premise software and hardware is becoming less popular due to the availability of cloud-based solutions such as Microsoft Office 365. These solutions offer greater scalability, security, efficiency, and flexibility than their on-premise counterparts.
• Store data in the cloud. The cloud is a safer, more secure place to store business data than on-premise servers. It also keeps small business owners and their computer networks from getting bogged down with files.

The massive growth of mobile payment is another important technology factor for small businesses to consider. Accepting mobile payments can allow for faster, smoother, and more convenient customer transactions. Plus, with fewer people carrying cash or checks these days, starting to offer mobile payments can help small businesses reach a wider audience and increase sales. All that’s needed is a smartphone, a mobile point-of-sale (mPOS) app and card reader, and a wireless internet connection.

Madison Communications is well equipped to provide the broadband technology that small businesses in our rural service areas require. To discuss the specific needs of your small business, call 1-800-422-4848.