For small businesses, does the reality of using social and new media in marketing live up to the promise? A qualitative study amongst business owners in the UK

Abstract The area of emerging technology and marketing has become an topic of increased debate as the potential to reach more consumers and provide real savings for small business is created. This study assesses the impact that emerging communication technology has had on the marketing efforts of small businesses in the UK. 1 Introduction1.1 Research TopicThis study assesses the impact that emerging communication technology has on the marketing efforts of small businesses in the UK. In order to properly evaluate each element, this study uses a survey given to several owners and operators in the UK coupled with a case study centred on the small business in the London area to provide evidence for industry and cultural assessment. These factors will be used to illustrate detailed components of operation and implementation for small businesses in the UK. With a focus for identifying distinct themes in the survey results, this research seeks to combine working experience with social expectation to provide an illustration of potential opportunity.1.2 Objectives1) Assess technological impact on small business 2) Evaluate how communication technology provides opportunities for growth.1.3 Research questions1) What are the challenges faced by small business in marketing? 2) Can improved consumer outreach improve revenue? 3) Does new technology offer a competitive edge for small business? 2 Review of Literature2.1 Small Business ChallengesMarketing is an essential element of small business strategy (Safko et al, 2009). With a clear need to remain in the consumer eye, marketing has the potential to make or break any small business (Qualman, 2009).2.1.1 Current MethodsCurrent methods of marketing include television, print and word of mouth (Qualman, 2008). Further, any advertising must be local or regional, facing increased cost (Safko et al, 2009).2.1.2. Emerging methodsInternet and communication technology provide social media, online content and increased consumer exposure for small businesses(Berthon et al, 2012; Fischer et al, 2011;Weinberg et al, 2011). Networking and comprehensive data bases encourage consumers to look deeply into a small business, providing ample opportunity for revenue growth.2.2 Small business Competitive Strategy and opportunities for growthUsing technology to reach consumers, aids outreach as well as provides a new and growing market for any business (Baird et al, 2011).2.3 Spending and Consumer OutreachModern methods of marketing require crucial funds that could otherwise to other areas of a small business strategy (Wienberg et al, 2011). This increased leeway provides opportunity for reinvestment in the infrastructure.2.4 Working TheoryUsing a thematic survey approach provides critical evidence to any working research (Perri et al, 2012). Combined with an assessment of the case study using Hofstede’s cultural dimensions, establishes the likelihood of adoption and implementation (Hofstede et al, 2010). 3 Methodology3.1 ApproachThis study is best approach with the Qualitative, Interpretivism process (Perri, 2012). Initial evidence will be provided using a survey given to between 100-150 respondents creating data that will be assessed using a thematic, coding approach (Perri, 2012). Case study is based on the small business sector in London, UK which provides government facts and official figure (Perri, 2012). The evidence is combined and evaluated using the thematic coding to identify themes in the material followed by a Hofstede analysis to provide useable examples of impact and improvement.3.2 Research StrategyQualitative research based on surveys and case study (Perri, 2012).3.3 Data Collection Instruments and MethodsSurvey and questionnaire coupled with a modern case study taken from online databases, official sites, journals and books. 4 Analysis4.1 Case Study of Small Business in London, UK 2010-20144.1.1 Thematic analysis of surveysIdentifying themes that relate to the positive or negative experience of technology use in marketing (Perri, 2012).4.1.2. Hofstede’s Cultural dimensions evaluation of case study and surveysProvides a working cultural understanding as to why or why not small business owners are embracing new technology opportunities (Hofstede et al, 2010).4.2 Discussion5 Conclusion and Recommendations5.1 Conclusion5.2 Recommendation6 References Baird, C. and Parasnis, G. 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