1.1 Introduction to the research
The survey is intended to be largely a listening exercise. It is mainly not designed to assess small business practice and behaviour, but rather, to assess the perspectives and concerns that inform that behaviour.
At its core is a systematic series of questions intended to throw light on small businesses' circumstances and concerns, especially where these intersect with the roles and responsibilities of government in general and of SBS in particular.
The key issues covered in this survey are:
- business objectives and growth
- barriers and obstacles to achieving business objectives
- financing the business
- business advice and support
- contact with, and use of, government services.
In addition, there is some analysis of:
- the characteristics of small businesses, and how these differ between different kinds of business
- new businesses
- small businesses among under-represented groups and in disadvantaged communities
- crime
- staff training
- use of internet technology
- VAT
- home working
- innovation
- family businesses
- transfer/sale/closure of the business
- insolvency
- disability among SME managers.