Despite their above average use of digital tools such as social media and SEO, Iowa SMBs’ disproportionate concentration in non–digital industries (37% vs. 26% avg) resulted in worse than average business outcomes in the state. As a result of COVID–19, most Iowa SMBs had to reduce their hours of operation (57% vs. 43% avg.), and they anticipate worse than average business outcomes as a result of COVID-19 (-21% vs. -16% avg.).
With below average comfort with digital tools (53% vs. 68% avg.), Iowa SMBs are especially focused on digitally preparing their business for future (46% vs. 37% avg).
1) Search engine optimization / SEO (74% vs. 64%)
2) Social media and video platforms (74% vs. 69%)
3) Digital ads (73% vs. 58%)
4) Digital payments (73% vs. 67%)
How will I...
Optimize my business operations? (44% vs. 39%)
Retain my customer base? (45% vs. 42%)
Recover from the damage done by COVID-19?(44% vs. 44%)
Digitally prepare my business for the future?(46% vs. 37%)
1) Customer relationship management platforms (12% vs. 11%)
2) Collaboration tools (12% vs. 7%)
3) Online hiring platforms (14% vs. 8%)
1) Webinars or livestreams (46% vs. 47%)
2) Step-by-step video tutorials (49% vs. 56%)
3) In person classes (49% vs. 30%)