I read with interest recently the results from a study by Talk Talk that revealed Bristol businesses are not getting the most from their broadband.
The study found that 49 per cent believe government needs to prioritise its focus on enhancing the digital skillset of the region and contribute towards digital inclusion.
There was also a call on government, from 48 per cent, to help reduce the cost of super-fast fibre broadband for small businesses.
Other results showed that 38 per cent of Bristol small businesses are not getting value for money from their broadband provider; and 26 per cent of small businesses are looking to switch providers.
My first thought was that’s a lot for government to do. Whilst government support for digital infrastructure – albeit any infrastructure – is the hallmark of a modern economy, the solution could be closer to home.
Charles Bligh, MD of Talk Talk Business, hit the nail on the head when he said: “The research tells us loud and clear that Bristol businesses deserve better…. Our message to small businesses is clear: there is always a choice, demand more from your broadband provider.”
So what can businesses do?
- To begin with they should review their current supplier – are they doing everything they can?
- Does your supplier offer 24/7 support to your business?
- How much downtime do you have – think about how much this is costing your business?
- Start to treat telecoms and broadband provision as important as any other part of your business.
- Is your solution ‘holistic’ and bespoke to what your business needs?
But most importantly you get what you pay for. If businesses treat telecoms as a commodity and go for the cheapest option, they will end up paying in the long term.
Ultimately, Bristol businesses do deserve better and investing some time looking at their broadband and telecoms provision is part of the solution.
