Several tailor-made packages have been unveiled by DP Bureau to help small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) secure a technological edge.
DP Bureau is a one-stop advisory centre for entrepreneurs.
The offers are part of the SME Infocomm Packages introduced by the Infocomm Development Authority of Singapore (IDA).
The offers include a substantial discount and possibly an IDA subsidy as well.
A company can apply for the subsidy if it is investing in a website for the first time. The subsidy will be available to 5,000 SMEs on a first-come, first-served basis.
If the IDA subsidy is included, the basic packages go from around $300 to about $5,900 for the more advanced ones.
An SME must have at least 30 per cent local shareholding and under $15 million in assets while non-manufacturing companies must have less than 200 employees.
Companies can call 6829- 9800, visit DP Bureau at International Plaza or send an e-mail to bureau@dpgroup.com.sg.
Four of the packages focus on the basics for any business wanting to get onto the first rung of the technology ladder - website development and hosting, domain names and broadband Internet access.
E-mail and phone support are also available.
The other three packages have been designed to meet the technological needs of the retail, trading and services sectors.
DP Bureau general manager Ong Siew Kim said: 'The retail sector package offers sophisticated point-of-sale equipment, the services sector package includes accounting software, while the trading sector package comes with accounting and inventory management software.'
Ms Ong said SMEs that use the packages will have a technological edge that can help their business.
'In today's fiercely competitive world, every SME should be making full use of technology to stay competitive. These SME Infocomm Packages are an efficient and affordable way for SMEs to get the technology they need to stay ahead of the game.'
Mr Yu Shu Huai, a director of Hai Yang Cultural Arts & Development Centre, signed up for the web customised package.
He said: 'This package and the government grant enables IT-illiterate people like me to establish a company website with ease. It allows me to create brand awareness and increase my competitiveness.'
Employing high-tech does pay off, according to an earlier survey conducted by DP Bureau's parent, DP Information Group.
It found that half the companies generating a net profit of between $200,000 and $500,000 were highly dependent on technology.
Of those earning more than $500,000 in net profit, 35 per cent were highly dependent on technology.
Of the companies with low levels of technology reliance, 37 per cent were making losses.
This article was first published in The Straits Times on 25 June 2008.
