MANY owners of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Singapore will soon get their say on the problems and challenges they face.

The SME Development Survey 2008 is now under way, with more than 10,000 of Singapore's SMEs being surveyed over a six-week period.

This year's theme centres on enhancing business competitiveness.

It will take an in-depth look at the factors that limit the expansion of local firms, as well as the measures they are adopting to raise their level of competitiveness.

DP Information, a local provider of credit and business information, conducts the annual poll.

The findings are due to be released in September.

The survey, launched on Monday, has become an important guide on the successes and failures of local SMEs.

It also serves as a useful indication of these companies' most pressing concerns.

'In previous surveys, we have seen that the needs of SMEs change over time. In our first survey in 2003, cash flow and financing were the dominant issues. Last year, cost competitiveness and competition were the biggest concerns,' said Ms Chen Yew Nah, managing director of DP Information.

'We encourage SMEs to participate every year, so that policymakers and service providers can stay abreast of emerging issues.'

This year, SMEs will be polled on several topics: rising business costs, business strategies, overseas expansion plans, funding, information technology and innovation, and training and management.

Those surveyed can send in their responses via mail or they can visit the website http://smesurvey.dpgroup.sg

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