It’s the 21^st century. If you want your small business to survive and have a chance at making it to the next century you are going to have to embrace technology. We have had countless posts about how computers can boost transaction, accounting, and inventory efficiency. Mobile payment optimization can help speed customers through the purchasing process enhancing the overall experience for them while inside your store and increase the likelihood of return business. And the internet is revolutionizing the way we meet and interact with current and potential customers allowing for a more cost effective approach then ever thought possible. Unfortunately, despite all the benefits many small businesses have yet to embrace technology. Some don’t even have a simple company website. WNYC expands, “According to the report, small businesses with 20 employees or less make up over 90 percent of the city’s businesses, yet fewer than 20 percent of them are effectively capitalizing on technology. For example, few retail and service stores owned by lower and moderate-income New Yorkers, have websites or do any online marketing, the report notes.

Small businesses like these are “10 or 15 years behind,” said David Meade, executive director of the Southwest Brooklyn Industrial Development Corporation, in the report. “[Lack of technology] doesn’t necessarily impact the client base they have already built up. But it impacts their ability to develop new clientele, and to get their world out there more,” he said. Funded by Citi Community Development, the report’s findings are based on surveys with over 230 small businesses and interviews with more than 36 small business experts, including consultants and lenders…”