subject: Is Starting An Online Business Better Than Going Brick-And-Mortar? [print this page] Is Starting An Online Business Better Than Going Brick-And-Mortar?
So you're planning to go into business. Congratulations -- you're in for a very challenging, yet potentially very rewarding road over the next few years. But these days, is it better to start a business on the Internet than to start a traditional brick-and-mortar establishment? Let's find out!
Ultimately, though, it's going to depend on how you want to work. If you want to work at home, or if you like the idea of being able to monitor your business through your laptop or mobile device, then an online business can give you that kind of flexibility.
Of course, an online business has its drawbacks too. If you're not particularly tech-savvy and marketing-savvy, you'll be faced with a pretty hefty learning curve to deal with. You'll have to learn about things like niche marketing, blogging, list building, and so on. Sure, most of these resources are on the 'Net, so you won't have to pay for most of it. But you WILL need a lot of time and patience!
On the other hand, a brick-and-mortar establishment might be a little more fun for you. Putting up such a business is a bit easier, since city dwellers have been doing it for centuries -- there's basically a system you can follow. What's more, you'll be able to help the community by creating jobs.
The most obvious drawback of a brick-and-mortar business is the amount of capital you'll need to get started. You'll also have to deal with taxes, legal documents, employee matters, inventory, etc.
Bottom line? If you don't have much money to work on and if you work best on your own, then you'll have better chances putting up a business online. Otherwise, stick to the basics and go brick-and-mortar -- it's much less stress that way.
