Internet connectivity is a must not just for large enterprises but also for small businesses. After all, it’s the small- and medium-sized enterprises that largely require the “push” from technological solutions so that they could become more successful and profitable.
Wi-Fi deployment for small businesses is the answer to demands for more efficient, streamlined and automated tasks and processes—everything from POS (point of sale) transactions and inventory control, to marketing, promotions, customer relationship management, and even security and surveillance.
If you are a small business owner, there are a number of things to consider regarding which Wi-Fi connectivity solution is best for your Internet needs. There are many Internet service providers and hardware vendors in the market today, but the most ideal one should be your partner in assessing your requirements and addressing them in the most efficient and effective manner.
There is not one solution that fits all business needs, especially involving SMEs. Nevertheless, here are three “Ws” that are easy to keep in mind when choosing Wi-Fi Internet solutions for your small business:
Why?
It is important to determine for what purposes Internet will be used in your business. Are you going to primarily use it for internal or office operations, or will it be extensively shared with customers and other external users? Administrative tasks may require a different level of bandwidth, depending on the kinds of software that your business uses and the amount of data that you handle. Businesses looking for Wi-Fi solutions for consumer use, on the other hand, should look into options that provide reliable, fast, and readily accessible connection in order to ensure a satisfying experience. Usually, SMEs would require a balance of both aspects.
Where?
The physical set-up of your business is also important to consider. Will Internet connectivity be contained mostly within one area of your business establishment, or will it be needed within an expansive environment, including remote points of considerable distances, such as entrance gates, security outposts, and the like? Also, under what conditions would these places be? Make sure to take into consideration external factors such as weather or climate, or the topography and physical aspects of the surroundings such as the trees and nearby structures. All these affect the quality Wi-Fi connectivity and Internet service.
When?
Our idea of small businesses or enterprises are usually commercial establishments with certain operating hours. However, with the growth of new forms of business models and new types of operational requirements, the need for Internet connectivity often no longer ends during the traditional close of business day.
These businesses can include F&B delivery services that take orders 24/7, consultants that provide outsourced backend services to remote clients, or security service providers that monitor surveillance and safety systems for their customers. Such businesses need reliable connectivity round the clock, so they must take immediacy and availability into account when choosing the right Wi-Fi solutions.
Connectivity Solutions for Small Businesses
Whether you run a small commercial establishment such as a coffee shop or a clothing store, or an office such as a law firm or a medical clinic, having the right Wi-Fi solutions for Internet connectivity is very important.
It is vital to choose the right provider who will be with you every step of the way—from assessment and planning of your connectivity needs, to day to day troubleshooting and eventual upgrades of your Wi-Fi system.