Mobile a boon to small business owners

7/13/2011

A recent study conducted by The Business Journals reveals that mobile integration of business activities breeds success for small-to medium-sized business owners.

The study, conducted from November 2010 to January 2011, polled more than 2,220 SMB executives. It found that 59 percent of respondents believed staying connected through wireless services and applications was key to business success.

Companies that have adopted a mobile approach averaged $10.8 million in sales during 2010, compared to $5.7 million for those who have yet to incorporate mobile.

"It's no surprise that advancements in technology are moving at a fast clip. What is a surprise is how much more successful those business owners are who can be rightly called mobile professionals," said J. Jennings Moss, editor of Portfolio.com.

These professionals are essentially attached to their mobile devices, as 64 percent of respondents indicated they spend more than eight hours per day connected to their business via computer, smartphone or iPad. In addition, 38 percent reported spending 11 hours or more connected in some way.

Companies such as TMC are integrating mobile with the recent launch of its SBA 504 Loan Calculator app. TMC provides the Small Business Administration with real estate financing in California and Nevada.