Great post! Just wanted to let you know you have a new subscriber- me!

The advantage small businesses have on large enterprise is their ability to move quickly. In the UK, SMEs account for around 94% of business and those that have survived are much fitter than last year and able to take advantage of opportunities. I wrote a blog entry recently on this very subject (http://blogs.sixninjas.com/mike/?p=26) SMEs are definitely getting well and more speedily than the bigger companies out there

Mike Beardshall
Operations Director
www.portfoliosoftware.co.uk

Small business owners and entrepreneurs of any nature tend to adhere to a more optimistic view toward the economy, in my experience, out of necessity. It is this mind set that allows them the continual drive and motivation to move forward and strive to succeed in their field of business, despite the current status of the economy. Small businesses also have the luxury of being more nimble in this economic environment, allowing them the ability to traverse many obstacles that may seriously hinder a larger company’s business structure. I think that these larger companies look to small businesses to lead the way and help them steer their slower moving, less agile business objectives toward the newer market trends, and more economically viable markets. Ideally this optimism would have a ripple effect through the business community in turn establishing consumer confidence back into the economy.

Jake Duquette – CEO, Custom Wine Designs
www.customwinedesigns.com

I have to say that I agree with Tim's reply - I really believe that this is the time to rise up to the challenge -- to invest and to make the most of technology. I firmly believe this is the time for entrepreneurs to get get creative and thrive in the least likely time.
I've found that one of the ways to do all this is to be aware of what's out there. One of the best ways I've improved my efficiency recently is by using a portal online (http://www.digitallizard.com/small-medium-business.php) where my employees and clients can order prints of any of the business material. It's saved a great deal of time and money!

I think there are still hard times to come for entrepreneurs and SMBs but the wise ones that invest in the right technology to maximize productivity and streamline business processes, will be able to save costs, adapt their business plans and connect with customers to survive and even thrive in this recession. It is key that these entrepreneurs are given the right support to give them confidence to innovate and drive their business forward and ultimately help pull the wider economy out of the downturn.
Entrepreneurs also have the advantage in that they don't have the legacy of past poor business decisions and inefficient processes. As long as you have the idea and drive, the cost of setting up a business can be very minimal. (see http://smallbusiness.officelive.com/)

Tim Kimber, Office Live