What do a law firm and a digital marketing agency in Johannesburg, a tourism lodge in the Eastern Cape, an agricultural enterprise in the Northern Cape, and a mining operation in Limpopo have in common? They all rely on connectivity to reach new markets, streamline operations, and stay competitive in the digital economy.
In fact, connectivity is a lifeline for South Africa’s small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). However, one size doesn’t fit all when it comes to selecting the right type of connectivity; different businesses have varied needs based on their size, location, and industry. Fortunately, several options are available to these businesses, and choosing the right one can make a significant difference in operational efficiency and long-term growth.
Fibre connectivity – The backbone of SMEs
- Broadband fibre connectivity remains the most popular option for businesses in urban areas or regions with developed infrastructure. It offers cost-effective, high-speed, reliable internet to support various business activities, from cloud-based operations to video conferencing and data-intensive tasks. In fact, 40% of SA’s SMEs choose fibre access. As an example, a law firm in Johannesburg handling large volumes of legal documents would benefit from the fast upload speeds offered by fibre connectivity.
- SMEs looking for security, consistent speeds, and guaranteed uptime could consider direct internet access. While it’s not as cost-effective as broadband, with only 15% of the country’s SMEs using it, this solution provides a dedicated line directly to the business, meaning that bandwidth isn’t shared with other users. Fewer disruptions, even during peak usage times, make it a dependable choice for SMEs that need a continuous online presence. A digital marketing agency might choose the direct internet access option to ensure uninterrupted access to client data and digital marketing platforms.
Satellite and microwave for remote and rural operations
What about SMEs that operate in remote or rural locations without access to fibre connectivity? There’s a common misconception that these businesses need to migrate to already over-burdened urban centres to benefit from connectivity solutions. On the contrary, satellite and microwave connectivity solutions offer dependable alternatives that allow these businesses to thrive without needing to relocate, creating economic opportunities outside urban centres.
- Satellite connectivity benefits SMEs operating in remote or rural areas with limited or non-existent terrestrial infrastructure. A reliable connection through a satellite network makes it possible to access the internet even in the most isolated regions. For instance, a tourism lodge in the Eastern Cape can manage online bookings, communicate with guests, and process electronic payments without being tied to city-based infrastructure. Similarly, a farmer in the Northern Cape can use satellite connectivity to monitor crop conditions through IoT sensors and access real-time market information.
- Microwave connectivity is a solution for businesses in areas that might be too challenging for fibre installation, like mines or manufacturing plants in outlying areas. For instance, a mining operation in Limpopo could use microwave technology to maintain constant communication with headquarters, upload real-time operational data, and coordinate supply chain activities.
Empowering SMEs through connectivity
Choosing the right type of connectivity is about more than just speed – it’s about finding a solution that fits a business’s specific needs and location, and empowers it to unlock new growth opportunities, streamline operations, and better serve its customers. It’s also about finding a technology provider who understands the business and its unique needs.
At Liquid Intelligent Technologies, we offer a wide range of connectivity solutions designed to meet the diverse needs of South African SMEs and can advise of the solution best suited to their unique needs. Contact us today to explore how we can help your SME thrive through the power of connectivity.
This article forms part of a series by Liquid Intelligent Technologies South Africa, aimed at helping South African SMEs navigate the intricacies of digitisation. Find out more at https://liquid.tech/solutions/small-business/
Liquid Intelligent Technologies is a proud National Partner of the NSBC.