Catering to SMEs

TO QUOTE Charles Dickens' famous opening line in A Tale of Two Cities: It was the best of times, it was the worst of times. This could perhaps describe the situation that many small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) find themselves in. On one hand, the economy is bleak and the future uncertain. On the other, in the midst of such crises is when the best deals can be had - thanks to lowered prices and greater rebates.

To attract this group of customers, providers of services have been jostling to offer competitive packages and product offerings. This can only be good news for businesses as they are able to compare and choose from a wide selection of services that could help take their organisations to the next level.

Indeed, many SMEs are taking this time to pursue growth opportunities and improve their business models and operations at a time where the market is sluggish and demand is moderate at best. The SME Magazine examines the latest offerings in four main sectors - banking, technology, telecommunications and education - to find out how they can benefit local enterprises.