Seventy-five per cent of small and mid-sized businesses are using network hardware, software and network solutions and 65 per cent have adopted advanced applications to remain competitive and attract customers, the fifth annual Cisco Net Impact Study reported.

"In 2002, they looked at technology as strictly cost—reduction," said Dave De Abreu, vice-president of commercial operations for Cisco Canada. "Today, they are looking at how they can maintain and increase their customer holdings and their business status within the customer environment."

For small business owners, things have changed a lot in 4 years!

"When we go and see a small business, whether it is a one-person shop or a 20-person, there is always basic technology," he said. "It's now become a norm in order to do business, otherwise you are really not going to be running a business."

The study conducted in June and July, consulted 200 Canadian organizations with fewer than 500 workers. To qualify for the study, businesses had to be using information and communications technology.

Part of the increased technological savvy means businesses are looking at more technologies, the study reported.

"So you are talking about businesses who are now looking at things like GPS, like wireless technology, like video capabilities to enhance their businesses. Anything and everything available in the marketplace, they are taking a look at it and asking the questions about how it can help their business."

But barriers still exist to investing in technology, including cost, time to implement and skills, the survey reported.

Adopting new small business technology can be both a intimidating and rewarding process, whether it's a new email application or an entirely new network environment the real focus should always be on the true return on investment. For help in planning and implementing new technology solutions for your business pick up the phone or email The Technology Coach today, we're here for your success!