Business Uses of Internet

More than 1.8 billion people worldwide use the Internet in some way, shape or form, according to a December, 2009 study on internetworldstats.com. A significant portion of users are business owners who have learned the power of connecting with customers and colleagues electronically. Over time, a business owner’s consistent use of the Internet can help propel his company to the next level.

Research Competition

Some businesses use the Internet to research competitors. For instance, Hoovers.com allows searches for detailed information on businesses across the country. An Internet search on a competing company results in articles and news stories about the competition that may help a business owner prepare for changes in the industry.

Buy and Sell

One of the basic uses of the Internet for businesses is to sell products and services. Businesses create E-commerce websites to sell anything from cell phone contracts to books and CDs. Online selling eliminates the need for the business to maintain a brick-and-mortar store and in some cases they don’t have to hold an inventory. A business can also use the Internet to buy items and services online, such as bulk-buying office supplies or printed materials.

Gauge Customer Interest

Business owners use the Internet to monitor customer purchasing trends and interests. To discover what everyday people think about a particular product or service, business owners can visit online social networking sites and message boards. Taking in this feedback helps business owners make their products better. For example, car accessory businesses can visit car forums to find out what car enthusiasts want. A business owner can also use the Internet to connect and communicate with his customers through these same websites.

Advertising

Businesses also use the Internet to find new customers through online advertising. Offering text and banner ads on websites as well as informational pieces, the Internet allows advertisers to reach potential customers quickly and efficiently. Pay-per click advertisements are distributed on Internet search engines and websites, allowing business owners to reach potential customers using search terms related to their business. As the business pays only for each ad click, costs are lower. The affordability and reach of some Internet advertising puts even the smallest business owner in a position to compete with larger businesses.

Provide a Superior Customer Experience

Digital technologies enable businesses to attract, retain and engage their customers in a more effective manner and for lower costs. You can use your website and social media pages to connect with prospects and market your products to those who are most likely to buy. With pay-per-click advertising, you can reach the right people at the right time and adapt your campaigns to the needs of your target audience. Marketing automation allows you to track the customer journey and reach potential clients across multiple channels.

Customer relationship management software enables users to keep accurate records of their customers’ needs, transactions and buying behavior. With this data, you can personalize the customer experience and provide better service. According to Accenture, 91 percent of people are more likely to purchase from brands that remember their preferences and provide relevant offers.

Reach a Global Audience

The rise of e-commerce, social networking and other digital technologies allows companies to reach a global audience. Geographical boundaries are no longer an issue. Small businesses can now advertise and sell their products to customers worldwide. A well-designed social media campaign can go viral within hours, generating leads and revenue.

It’s estimated that over 1.9 billion people will make an online purchase in 2019. Regardless of your budget, you can put your business in front of millions of potential customers to raise brand awareness and generate revenue. Furthermore, you can leverage the power of email and video marketing, blogging, search engine optimization and other technologies to turn prospects into buyers. Without the internet, none of these things would be possible.

Other Business Advantages

There are many other advantages of using the internet in business. Web-based technologies can improve teamwork, free up employees’ time and increase your productivity. Depending on your needs, you may use collaboration tools, project management tools, website builders, video conferencing and much more.

The internet has changed the business world forever, becoming an indispensable part of our lives. Companies that want to remain competitive and grow can no longer ignore its impact.