Southeast Asia is emerging as a new hotspot for e-commerce. The rapid growth of internet users in the region, fueled by the availability of affordable smartphones and data plans, is turning consumers, especially newer generations, into online shoppers. Analysts predict that Southeast Asia will have the next consumer powerhouse driven by the increasing purchasing power in the region and young population. A significant portion of that money will go toward online shopping. In fact, according to reports, over 50 percent of consumers in the region are spending around US$30 a month on online shopping. However, Southeast Asia is a difficult market to penetrate and win. The culture throughout the region is so diverse that it has to be approached with the knowledge of its people. That said, here are some things that you need to know about Southeast Asian consumers.

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Having a great business idea can get you started but is just one part of the journey that all entrepreneurs will have to navigate. The only way it can be successful is by getting your idea, product, or service out there to the wider world, but what is the best way to go about this? Here are a few tips to help take your business idea and put it in front of your target market.

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It seems that remote working is here to stay, at least in some form. Whilst some workers are eager to get back to the office full time, many of us have embraced the flexibility of working from home some or all of the time. But what will this mean for business? Home vs. Office The main concern for employers with a remote workforce is the issue of productivity. After all, an office setting is designed to help us focus and get tasks done. Can the same be said for someone working at their kitchen table? Surprisingly, the answer is yes. In fact, several studies have shown that working from home actually increases productivity – on average, remote workers are 47% more productive, work more hours, are more consistent, and get more done.  

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Small businesses have big challenges to deal with, specifically when it comes to budgeting for technology. You have a long list of must-haves, but cash constraints often leave you cutting corners. The mindset can save you some dollars today, but you may end up missing out on your growth targets. Moreover, being behind on the tech front can deprive your company of a competitive advantage. Fortunately, there are ways to fulfill your IT needs and wants if you are judicious enough. Here are some measures that can help in stretching the tech budget for your small business. Align the budget your goals It is easy to fall prey to an urge to invest in a fancy technology just because it is trending. But you may end up depleting your budget too soon and getting solutions that do not add value to your business. Ideally, you must align your IT budget with your goals right from the start. It will help you distinguish between needs and wants so that you can pick the best options. The step should come early as it gives…

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