Since Google made changes to its search algorithm giving preference to mobile and tablet friendly websites, over one third of businesses have optimised their sites for mobile with a further 28 per cent planning to do so this year.
The findings, presented in the 2015 Sensis e-Business Report, also revealed that 56 percent of SMBs have a website with a further six percent planning to build one this year.
Sensis Commercial Director, Rob Tolliday said “search engine optimisation has become a crucial tool for SMBs, now used by 41 per cent of those online. The changes from Google represent an opportunity for small businesses to get ahead in the rankings, perhaps even overtaking larger organisations who can take longer to overhaul their websites.”
Mr Tolliday said the results were of no surprise given that 46 per cent of businesses think it is important to be on page one of a Google search. Mr Tolliday highlights the challenges faced by online retailers as they compete with overseas competitors.
“Not only are Australian stores having to compete with local online retailers, they are now also competing heavily with overseas players such as ASOS and Amazon who are trying to undercut them,” he said.