Business in action
How small businesses operate
There are many reasons why an individual sets up in business. For a business to be successful that person will need appropriate skills and qualities along with suitable advice and finance.
Satisfying customer needs
Market research, product development, marketing and producing quality products can ensure that a customer is satisfied with the good or service provided by a business.
Functional activities
Businesses separate tasks into functional activities. The main functional activities can be grouped under the four main functional areas - marketing, operations, human resources and finance.
Video playlist
Branding - building the value. Video
The importance of own label brands in the food industry.
Breaking even. Video
How businesses need to adapt – an example of one business changing its focus.
Successful products - the story of the Mini. Video
Evan Davis tells the story of the Mini - a successful product but as a financial disaster.
Market research and branding mistakes. Video
Evan Davis tells the story of 'the biggest brand mistake ever made'.
Franchising. Video
Looking at a franchise business from the view of a franchisee and the franchise owner.
Business start-up. Video
A new business starts up, helped by a small business advisor.
Right people, right jobs. Video
To succeed, businesses need the right people in the right positions.
Crisis management in business. Video
Evan Davis tells the story of the way Apple dealt with a corporate crisis.
Young entrepreneur. Video
A young entrepreneur spots a gap for a dry cleaners and gets the start-up finance.
Safety and standards. Video
The Teen Canteen team learn about the importance of adhering to food safety regulations.
Creating a brand image. Video
Evan Davis tells the story of the rollercoaster rise and fall of Sunny Delight.
Lagos cattle market. Video
Lagos cattle market shows a market price being established by negotiation.
