Despite the fact that U.S. small-business owners see the proverbial glass as “half-full” in terms of their future success, some experts believe these owners face a host of issues and challenges that could force them to adjust their business models.
Those issues and challenges include: emerging business technologies, new healthcare laws and regulations, revised tax codes, greater competition, staffing and cybersecurity. Here’s a more detailed analysis:
- Implementing new and emerging business technologies.Computers have revolutionized the corporate world, with new software, apps and data storage options springing up daily. For business owners, this means acquiring the skills to operate these new technologies. While community or technical colleges remain great and convenient places for this brand of education, many software manufacturers also provide training in conjunction with their customer support services.
Chief among emerging technologies is “Cloud” computing, which involves storing data on virtual servers hosted by third parties. Cloud computing is particularly small business-friendly because it allows access to a variety of office productivity tools (email, calendar, word processing, databases, invoicing, CRM, intranet, etc.) without an investment in expensive, standalone software licenses.
- Interpreting and adhering to changing healthcare laws and regulations. The Small Business Health Options Program (SHOP) can provide more details and information. A SHOP-registered agent or broker, or many private insurance companies offer the Small Business Health Options Program.
- Understanding and applying the tax code. Surely, it’s one of the most nebulous documents known to man: The U.S. tax code. Familiarizing yourself with the tax code’s current and future status helps you keep more of what you work so hard for – your money. To this end, the IRS provides a comprehensive Small Business and Self Employed Tax Center, which answers a multitude of questions concerning tax credits, legal deductions and filing late returns.
- Heading off the competition, at home and afar. Competition in business means not only the shopkeeper down the street, but also the shopkeeper in another corner of the world. With China a formidable economic force, many small companies in the U.S. are likely to feel the ripple effect of business decisions made by this Eastern powerhouse for years to come. Meanwhile, continue to look for ways at home to differentiate yourself from regional, local and global competitors, while continuing to define your brand.
- Identifying key resources for sustainment and growth. Capital and cash flow are two words emblazoned on every entrepreneur’s mind. But how do you ensure you have enough money coursing through your company in a healthy stream? Beyond traditional bank loans and credit lines, your small businesses may also qualify for alternative financing sources, including private and government grant programs, asset-based financing and venture capitalists.
- Hiring the right talent. One recent survey showed more than 60 percent of small-business owners rated finding skilled workers their top concern. While there is no simple solution to the problem, experts say entrepreneurs will more readily find competent staff by networking, seeking input from recruiters, writing a comprehensive job description and using clear targeted questions during the interview process. For industry-specific skills, community colleges and trade schools will likely remain among the prime places to launch a talent search.
- Maintaining cybersecurity. Though hackers have been a problem since the internet’s emergence, the breadth and sophistication of these attacks has grown exponentially over the last 10 years. IT experts continue to develop protective software to thwart this criminal activity, but it’s not an easy task. The SBA has developed a training tool to help small business-owners define cybersecurity; implement best practices; decide what data needs protection; identify potential threats; and create a risk management protocol.
For more information about small business services or the Arvest Business Engagement Center:
- Schedule an appointment for a business advisor to call you.
- Call (866) 314-0315
- Or contact your local Arvest banker