SMEs urged to prepare for Olympics

SMEs urged to prepare for Olympics

Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) have been encouraged to make preparations for the Olympic Games, being held in London this summer.

Among the things worth considering are IT systems, which can prove vital during periods of disruption, possibly warranting the installation of leased lines to ensure employees can access their work data securely from a number of locations.

Indeed, research conducted by BT business suggested that 64 per cent of SMEs are expecting there to be some negative effects as a result of the Games. These include problems with staff attendance, and supply chain disruptions. Around a third of firms surveyed are expecting resourcing difficulties when staff are unable to reach their place of work or what time off.

Fortunately, it appears that many companies are planning for such eventualities, with 76 per cent of firms stating that they already have flexible working policies in place in preparation.

Graham Sutherland, managing director at BT business, commented: “Despite the tough economic times, our customers tell us that they're positive about the opportunity to grow and develop their businesses during the Games.

“With less than seven months to go, we encourage them to prepare now to make the most of the potential profits on offer, by putting systems and processes in place that allow them to deliver an exemplary service to their customers.”

In addition to preventing problems, the researchers are keen to encourage businesses to make the most of the possibilities presented by the Olympics. They referenced the Vancouver 2010 Winter Olympic Games, after which 49 per cent of local businesses felt that they could have prepared better for the event or that they missed out on opportunities.

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