As we all know, the internet is full of offensive comments and broad negative statements of all kinds. Right or wrong, this landmark decision will set a precedent for the future.  On the positive side, this decision will make people think twice about posting offensive posts and comments about someone, as they’re no longer protected by the anonymity of the internet. On the downside, let’s hope it does not cause an over reaction and bring about legislation that will make life on the internet difficult.

Today 9 out of 10 people start their buying decisions at a search engine.  Often small businesses don’t appreciate the full value of a web presence, citing the age old “All our business comes from referrals”.  Think about it – how many times have you been asked “What’s your website?”. Rightly or wrongly, a website gives you credibility.  It doesn’t matter what business you’re in.  Today, for most customers, no website means you’re not serious about your business.

Having said that, even if you have a website, you could be missing potential customers if you fail to have it created properly. A website should be optimised to enable search engines to find your information.  The latest ABS information also confirmed that although orders received over the internet was unchanged at 24%, income generated from internet orders rose by 20% to $81 billion. Wouldn’t you like to have some of that? There are many “gurus” today who can get you a Page #1 Ranking in google … Have you noticed that those same “gurus” do not actually promise you that your internet income will actually increase? It all boils down to the keywords that you have your Page #1 Ranking for … Just think about that for a moment.

This year, the Rudd Government in Australia has decided to lend its support to small businesses to get a piece of the online pie by allocating $10m over 2 years in its Federal Budget for a Small Business Online program. The program is aimed to help equip small businesses get online and engage in e-business. However, as with all government announcements in the Budget, we are still waiting for the details of the program … So watch this space for future announcements!