How Startups Will Evolve in 2013

A guest post by Steven Boggs

 

The startup phase of any business is always a hectic time. As one of the most crucial periods of any business, how you plan and execute your startup phase could be the difference between success and failure. With the rapidly pace in which technology has changed in recent years, startups are finding more options to stay connected with their business, seek investors and launch their products. These four trends will likely shape startups throughout 2013 and beyond.

Mobile Devices and the Office

Smartphones and tablets offer startups powerful productivity tools in a portable package. From the latest sales figures to conference calls with partners and investors, if you have Internet access, you can create a temporary office. This allows entrepreneurs to stay involved with and connected to the startup process in ways that were previously impossible. Through social media and other platforms, business owners can also promote their brand and generate buzz for their business with a few taps of a screen. By removing the limitations of the traditional office space or business location, startups are getting more accomplished with greater efficiency.

Technology Adoption Rates in Startups

Mobile devices are just the start of the technology revolution within startups. From software-as-a-service solutions to cloud computing, there is an abundance of professional tools available for startups that were previously unfeasible. What once would require a dedicated IT staff, thousands of dollars and months of planning can be deployed, configured and maintained in just a matter of seconds for a fraction of the cost. This allows startups to make better informed decisions, operate with more efficiency and compete with established businesses of all sizes. Best of all, a resistance in older businesses to adopt new technologies leave startups poised to pounce and dominate the market.

The Crowdsourcing Phenomenon

One of the most challenging part of starting a business is financial backing. Whether you need money for product production, are searching for a storefront or simply need to hire employees, you are often at the mercy of investors and banks to bankroll your project. Crowdsourcing sites, such as Kickstarter, have opened up new avenues for funding a startup. Simply pitch your product or service, set contribution rewards and have your proposal in front of millions of potential customers and investors in a matter of minutes. In 2012, Pebble Technology used Kickstarter to raise over $10-million in funding with their campaign for the Pebble watch. The first million was raised in just over 24 hours. Combined with social media, crowdsourcing has the potential to change the way that startups seek funding.

Internet Outsourcing for Startup Savings

Funding is not the only resource available on the Internet for startups. Outsourcing is a great way for any startup to obtain professional services at affordable prices. From graphic design to customer service, there are plenty of qualified independent contractors available online. Popular sites, such as eLance and vWorker, make it easy to post job listings, screen potential contractors and obtain services. 

Many sites also offer time tracking, invoicing and payment brokering to help reduce the time and paperwork involved in finding services for your business. Whether you are looking for a simple one-time job or searching for a potential full-time employee, these sites make it easy to obtain services while staying within budget.

About the Author: Steven Boggs has been writing about technology and small business solutions for companies like EnMast for 10+ years. When he’s not writing, you can find him teaching woodworking classes at the local community center.