Why you need a website for your business!

This is what the BBC asked recently (August 2007)- if you think you don't or are unsure then please read on for the findings...
As far as web-literate consumers are concerned, internet search engines generally offer the best way to track down a local plumber or find out where the local pet shop is based.
After all, a reputable company will have its own website, right?
Wrong.
In a world where e-trading has become as mainstream as microwaved ready meals, it comes as a shock to many to discover that no more than half of Britain's small to medium-sized businesses have a web presence.
But those are the facts, according to the Federation of Small Businesses, which represents about 210,000 firms.
After a flurry of activity a few years ago, when a steady stream of its members flocked into cyberspace, demand has stagnated.
Which is a shame, according to the Federation's IT chairman, Peter Scargill, who insist companies must "keep up or lose out".
This is more than ever the case in today's business climate as many companies struggle to grasp the impact of the next wave of internet technology.
So-called web 2.0, blogs, wikis and web-on-your-mobile are giving ever greater power and choice to the consumer.
Many shrewd players are racing to adapt and respond to compete in both the offline and online market place.
This could mean that those existing only in the real world are being left behind?
The view of the internet as an afterthought has to change as new technologies fundamentally alter consumer behaviour, according to the National Federation of Enterprise Agencies.
"Priorities will differ from business to business but the web will be integral to a business plan on all levels, whether it forms part of your communications and marketing strategy, part of your supply or customer chain, or whether you use it to trade," says the group's chief executive, George Derbyshire.
"Communicating with potential customers is important for every business, even if you are a local fish and chip shop".
The reason why so many companies are disappointed with their website's performance is that they have failed to maximise their potential, believes Mr Scargill.
"A website is a passive device," he says.
"Unless you have a well recognised brand name you need to have some way for people to find your site.
"If you haven't marketed it properly, it's like taking a bunch of brochures, putting them in a cupboard and then wondering why sales aren't going up or you get no visitors."
So there you have it - in todays market it is essential you do not get left behind - and with a web presence available for as little as £££ you do not need to!