Social media is often viewed as a tool that allows people to interact with family, friends, and a wider social circle by sharing information, images, and experiences in real time. Massive reductions in the cost of information and communication technology and the proliferation of internet access have led social media to become an everyday tool for many individuals and organisations across the globe.
In this report, we set out to gain a deeper understanding of how European businesses, in particular, use digital tools and social media to empower businesses throughout their lifecycle, from start-up to establishment and with every customer relationship. There is significant evidence that a broad range of digital tools can help businesses in all industries throughout Europe by reducing the costs of marketing and sales, reducing the barriers to entrepreneurship, expanding the reach of export markets, and facilitating innovation within businesses and throughout industries.
To explore these effects, we conducted a survey focusing on the role of social media, using Facebook apps and technologies as an example. Representatives from 7,720 businesses in 15 countries across the EU responded. The survey results suggest that digital technologies, like Facebook apps and technologies, facilitate business growth, trade, and innovation.
For further information and media enquiries regarding the findings and methodology of this report, please contact Dr Bruno Basalisco, available at bb@copenhageneconomics.com. For all other media enquiries regarding the Facebook Company, please contact Mihiri Bonney available at bonney@fb.com