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Benefiting From Electronic Payment Systems
Many practices’ clients may be unaware of the benefits of conducting business online. A new service will make electronic payment for goods and services easier, reports Simon Webster.
UK Online for Business, in partnership with Scottish Enterprise, has launched a new service on its website where businesses can find out about taking payment for goods and services online. This will help businesses to get their share of the £1bn+ per month being spent online by UK consumers.
Accessible at www.ukonlineforbusiness.gov.uk/epayments, this resource is thought to be the first of its kind in the UK, bringing together a comprehensive list of online payment suppliers for businesses to research. It also outlines the benefits and costs of the various electronic payment options currently available.
UK Online for Business Director, Liz Grant, commenting on the content, said: “The ability for customers to make electronic payments to purchase goods online is becoming increasingly more important. With 44% of UK adults ordering online in 2002, and sales almost doubling in the last year, it’s imperative businesses get effective e-payment systems up and running as soon as possible. Whatever level of awareness and understanding businesses are currently at, the benefits it will produce in terms of profitability and customer service are far reaching.”
The site has a custom-built decision-making tool to help businesses find the best possible electronic payment solution for them – from a swipe card machine to taking online and mobile payments.
By entering business details such as turnover and average sale value, the tool generates a selection of solutions with relevant costs and gives details on how to sign up or find out more about chosen suppliers.
One of the best ways of understanding how any product or service can benefit a business is by looking at what other businesses are doing in terms of implementing electronic payment solutions. The UK Online for Business website also provides a selection of ‘case studies’, focusing on real businesses and how electronic payments have benefited them.
Andy Ross, Director of E Commerce for The Royal Bank of Scotland Group, says: “E-commerce has opened a new window of opportunity for the small business community. This is an excellent site to help them research and find the right online payment systems.”
Visit www.ukonlineforbusiness.gov.uk/epayments to learn more.
Simon Webster – Communications Manager, ACCA UK