How growing SMBs can maximise connectivity without breaking the bank

Digital systems have become an essential part of our lives, influencing almost everything we do. Whether it's the smart TV in our living room, connected home appliances, or self-checkout lanes at our supermarkets, digital technology has quietly, yet significantly woven itself into our daily routines.

The same transformation is happening for small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs). They are increasingly relying on digital tools for various operations, such as tracking inventory, managing customer relationships, and processing payments. In today’s fast-paced market, many small businesses would find it challenging to compete and grow without these digital systems.

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The connectivity to enable SMBs

What often goes unmentioned is the crucial role the network  plays in keeping these systems running smoothly and reliably. 

Below is a short list of activities that require connectivity:

• Collaboration: Sending emails, making video calls on Zoom or Teams, and collaborating through messaging apps like Slack and Google Chat.
• Digital marketing: Posting on social media, engaging with customers, live streaming, and setting up online marketing campaigns to boost sales.
• File transfers: Uploading videos, downloading app or security updates, and sharing large digital assets with clients or team members. 
• Business applications: Using online services like Google Apps or Microsoft 356, accessing hosted customer relationship management (CRM) services, and utilising cloud storage solutions to keep business operations seamless and efficient.

Reliable network infrastructure is the backbone of countless digital interactions, making it crucial for businesses to invest in robust connectivity solutions. But how can small business owners make sure they have the right setup, especially when budgets are tight?

Watch: Singapore Dreamin' - The heartwarming makeover series that's giving local small- and medium-sized businesses the tech upgrades of a lifetime.

Flexible, low-cost networking with 5G

One common budget solution is to count on mobile broadband for connectivity needs. While this option was often a last resort, today’s 5G networks are capable of handling the demands of small businesses. With speeds up to 10 times faster than 4G, 5G networks provide an always available and cost-effective alternative to traditional wired connections.  

The benefits of 5G include high bandwidth with lower latency to improve workflow efficiency and the ability to better support video calls and cloud applications.

• Higher bandwidth: Enables quick downloads and uploads, improving workflows and productivity.
• Lower latency: Reduces lag in video calls, cloud applications, and business-critical processes, ensuring smoother interactions and faster response times. 
• Enhanced reliability: 5G offers better reliability with fewer dropped connections, ensuring consistent access to business applications and services. 
• Security: Enhanced encryption for sensitive data and critical business operations. 

5G for your business

5G mobile networks offer flexibility in deployment for various scenarios. A solopreneur could possibly run his entire business on-the-go from a smartphone–the ultimate untethered workplace–by tapping into attractive price points, large data bundles and even roaming benefits from competitive 5G plans. For example, Singtel offers a Business SIM-Only plan with 250GB of data for just S$36 monthly, or Business phone plans with up to unlimited data, worldwide roaming and multiple lines for S$288 monthly. 

Small offices and micro businesses can also choose to tether a 5G phone or rely on a dedicated 5G router to provide high-speed internet connection for all their devices. This allows SMBs to meet increased connectivity demands without the need for expensive network or technical upgrades, adapting quickly to changing demands and expanding their operations more seamlessly.

However, while it may be tempting to just sign up for off-the-shelf 5G plans boasting low cost and high data caps, heavier users and SMBs need more than basic connectivity to run a business. Business 5G solutions often come with greater reliability compared to standard consumer offerings, and may offer priority bandwidth allocation, volume discounts, and business-specific tools such as performance monitoring and dedicated 24/7 assistance for faster issue resolution. Singtel’s Business Circle for example, offers free intra-company mobile calls, helping you save even more while keeping your employees connected.

Cost-effective security solutions

As SMBs expand, they may reach a point where more sophisticated network infrastructure is needed. However, they might not necessarily have the resources to hire dedicated experts to deploy and manage these networks, including ensuring their security against cyber threats. However, a full-time hire isn't necessary thanks to a variety of managed services available that SMBs can sign up for.

• Singtel Network-as-a-Service (NaaS) offers a unified dashboard, enabling businesses to manage their network from a single platform, complete with real-time analytics and self-service tools.
• Singtel Broadband Security provides a cloud-based unified threat management service integrated with Singtel Broadband, offering protection against the latest malware threats through anti-virus and web content filtering.

Business broadband to go the distance

As the office grows, an SMB might consider upgrading to a dedicated business broadband connection to ensure consistent, high-speed internet access across all departments. When selecting the right broadband provider, businesses will do well to ensure that providers can deliver the reliability, technical support, and symmetric speed they need.

Finally, mid-sized offices might struggle with good WiFi coverage. This typically starts with optimal placement of WiFi access points (AP) at a central location in the office, away from obstacles that might block or degrade the strength of its signal. To help SMBs with their WiFi needs, Singtel offers Broadband Plus plans that come with WiFi 6 mesh APs to ensure strong and reliable coverage throughout the entire workspace. This eliminates dead zones and keeps employees connected at all times. We also have guides to help you improve your SOHO Wi-Fi setup and choose business-grade solutions.

In today's digital-first business landscape, being connected isn't optional. However, investing in essential connectivity and solutions can be done without breaking the bank.

(In partnership with Singtel)

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