Where else but Queensland? Revamped website assists businesses wanting to expand online

So you are keen to take the next step and increase your business’ online presence. But are you ready? That’s the question the Queensland Government is asking business owners on its revamped business website.

There is no doubt that the digital economy can offer Queensland businesses – and all businesses across the country for that matter – a whole new range of possibilities. Research by Office of Economic and Statistical Research has found that eight in ten Queensland adults have access to the internet at home, with broadband accounting for 90% of connections.

Further data from the ABS shows that 58% of Queenslanders with internet access use it every day and two-thirds have used it to purchase goods or services. That is a big market that is rapidly growing.

A particularly useful tool for budding online entrepreneurs on the Queensland Business & Industry website is the Doing Business Online Diagnostic. This online quiz poses questions for you to consider before you take your next step in online business. What are your goals and expectations? Where are your customers? What skills do you already have? How will you fund your online venture?

The great thing about the Doing Business Online Diagnostic is that it gives you a handy report at the end of the survey with key recommendations for you to consider about your online readiness and your online plans.

Digitalbusiness.gov.au is a useful tool to help you address topics identified in the report you get after completing the Doing Business Online Diagnostic quiz. We have guides for developing a digital strategy and how you can define exactly what it is that you require to get online. The site can help you with everything from online marketing to social media and from online payments to protecting data.

The new Queensland Business and Industry website is a vastly improved resource for businesses. Rather than having to scan various department websites for your information needs, one single portal gives you access to all business and industry related information. There are also plenty of online tools to allow you to complete whole tasks or transactions online.

As well as having general information relevant to all Australian businesses, the website also links to lots of information specifically for Queensland businesses, including:

• Smartlicence, a unique business licensing and information service that aims to “put a stop to the red tape run-around and gives you the freedom to get on with business.”
• A calendar of in person and online events, workshops, seminars for Queensland businesses; and
• Information about Queensland Government cyclone and flood assistance for small businesses, charities and non-profit organisations.

So take the Queensland Business and Industry website diagnostic quiz and then do some follow up research on Digitalbusiness.gov.au to better understand how you can make the most of online opportunities for your business. Once you’ve used the diagnostic tool, please feel free to share your thoughts on it in the comments section below.

By Natalie, DBCDE