Big businesses offer high-tech services to help local companies expand
Implications - Global, tech-focused businesses create new tools and services that focus on increasing the reach of smaller, local businesses. In an act to appear non-threatening to small companies, these new business models are designed to help entrepreneurial initiatives grow and become more in-tune with the advantages of technology. Leveraging advanced technologies like blockchain on a small scale will yield mass results for new companies trying to make their overall strategies stronger and more successful.
Workshop Question - How can your brand leverage technology to increase your scope and reach?
Trend Themes
1. Localized Growth - Businesses are creating new tools and services to help increase the reach of smaller, local businesses through advanced technologies like blockchain.
2. Small Business-expanding Programs - Technology, such as Womply, is being used to help small businesses take full control of their local internet searches, increasing company visibility and business growth potential.
3. Affordable Blockchain Tools - Beta software like the IBM Blockchain Starter Plan is helping smaller scale businesses adapt to blockchain technology at a more affordable price and without the focus on cryptocurrency.
Industry Implications
1. Small Business Services - Businesses, like Office Depot's BizBox and Womply, are offering technology-based tools and services to help small businesses grow and succeed.
2. Point of Sale Systems - Advanced features in POS systems, such as the 'POSist' software, are streamlining businesses and helping to accelerate growth.
3. Office Renovations - Lebel & Bouliane is an example of design studios that are renovating offices to better suit business needs and push for innovation in company culture.
