Optus has set up an interactive and collaborative website that connects small- and medium-sized business owners and their employees to help them sort out common business issues.
The Yes Business site came about following customer feedback regarding a lack of access to information, ideas and tools to solve problems, the telco said in a statement.
A survey of a sample of Optus' SMB users showed that:
- Nearly two-thirds (61%) felt isolated in their roles;
- More than a third (35%) had paid more than they wanted for an expert to solve a problem rather than trying to find out how to resolve it themselves;
- A website designed for information and advice specifically for SMBs appealed to more than two-thirds (67%) of respondents; and
- More than a fifth (22%) felt there was not enough information available to help them run a successful business.
Optus head of Small and Medium Business Matthew Ball said: “Optus’ Yes Business platform allows SMBs to connect to a digital community where they can seek a range of advice, tips and solutions within the one place.
{loadposition sam08}“We know 46% of SMB owners seek advice from other small business owners, yet, there are still feelings of frustration and isolation. Yes Business aims to alleviate these feelings by connecting SMBs with a like-minded and knowledgeable digital community.”
The survey identified the following reasons why SMB owners felt isolated:
- Multiple things going wrong simultaneously (34%);
- Lack of inspiration or motivation (24%);
- Being unable to ask for help (12%); and
- Being unable to share successes with others (12%).
“We’re focused on continually improving our services to customers and it’s important to us that our customers can turn to us not only for communications advice and service, but for business," said Ball.
"Listening to our customer base, we know SMBs want an easy-to-access online community for support, know-how and expert advice."
The website will also have articles on aspects of SMB written by owners and academics.