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By Suzanne Kraus

The latest statistics show there are more than 23 million small businesses in the United States. These businesses can be major players because of the powerful, technological and growing number of tools available to small businesses.

Clearly, telecommunication technologies can be an extraordinary tool for entrepreneurs trying to streamline their businesses, increase productivity and just make their lives easier. There is no escaping it…the small business owner needs this technology, but doesn’t want to break the bank or exhaust valuable resources to get it.

Businesses across the country – including Comcast – recognize this. Software developers, e-marketers, Internet and telephone service providers and others are vying to serve the small business customer. The challenge for small businesses will be to choose the companies they can trust to strategically support their growth at a superior value.

Here are is what every new business should know about telecommunication technologies that can make or break their business success:

1. Get Personal: With digital technology, it’s simple for businesses to add a personal touch to their operations. In doing so, they are able to deliver additional value and create more engaging interactions for customers. In addition to phone and broadband Internet services, tailored video and sports packages are available for customers who entertain their clients in lobbies and waiting rooms.
   
   Take for example Denver-based neurologist Dr. Eric Hammerberg who has been treating patients for more than 30 years. As a Comcast Digital Cable customer, he’s personalized his business by simply allowing guests to tune to familiar televisions programs while in the waiting room.
   
   
2. Connect with Your Customers — FAST: The speed at which you connect to your customers and the market is critical to making you more competitive. Having a professional website can help nearly any small business connect more effectively and quickly with customers. For example, with Comcast Business Class Internet we have the power and speed to support video, the next wave in publishing content. Our readers/viewers are now looking for more than just text and images, and we’re pleased we can now deliver exciting new products like a video magazine on the web.
   
   
3. Advanced Business Class Voice Management: When selecting your phone provider, think about how communication impacts your bottom line. Finding the right solution can help you successfully operate and save you money. Look for advanced features that are included in your calling plan. Comcast has all inclusive plans with options such as a Digital Voice Center – a central location where you can review call history detail, manage calling features including email notifications of new voice mail messages, as well as listen to/organize voice mail messages on any computer that has Internet access. These extras deliver much more and will help streamline your workflow and increase business productivity.