Insights for people running a business

Articles on digitalisation, administration, e-commerce, security and Swiss regulations, written in Lugano for SMEs in Ticino and across Switzerland.

Business and strategy

Swiss SMEs: the main challenges

SMEs are the heart of the Swiss economy, but they face complex challenges linked to limited resources, regulatory compliance, administrative management, digitalisation, and access to skills and global markets. In a context where around 80% of SMEs name inflation and cybersecurity as key factors of impact, and where the labour market and the adoption of advanced technologies remain critical areas, it's essential to understand what these difficulties are and how to tackle them.

9 October 20234 min read

Finance and compliance

Swiss VAT 2024: new rates from 1 January and what changes for businesses

From 1 January 2024, new VAT rates come into force in Switzerland: the standard rate rises from 7.7% to 8.1% and the reduced rate from 2.5% to 2.6%, while the special rate for the accommodation sector goes up to 3.8%. Businesses need to pay attention to these changes when updating price lists, prices and invoicing software

4 August 20233 min read

Technology and innovation

AI and marketing: how to make the most of the trend transforming communication

In 2023, interest in AI for marketing exploded, and companies that integrate AI-based tools gain greater efficiency and a competitive edge. Here we look at what's changing with AI in marketing, how to implement it and why it's important to start now.

5 June 20233 min read

Business and strategy

Retail trends: what will shape commerce over the next five years

Over the next five years, retailers will need to adapt by bringing online and offline together, integrating augmented and virtual reality, harnessing artificial intelligence and responding to the expectations of an increasingly digital Generation Z. The goal is to create smooth, engaging shopping experiences in which the boundaries between e-commerce, social media and physical stores blur.

24 May 20233 min read

Finance and compliance

Annual financial statements 2022: a simple guide to valuation principles

In this article we explain the valuation principles in simple terms: the principle of prudence, the rules for receivables and inventory, accounting for foreign currency, and the use of standard write-downs. Understanding these concepts helps you prepare clearer financial statements that are more useful for managing your business.

13 June 20224 min read

Digital marketing

Corporate videos: how to make them yourself, simply and cheaply

Corporate videos are a powerful tool for boosting visibility, trust and engagement. With a few tools and a modest budget you can make them yourself: plan the strategy, write a script, take care of filming and lighting, and use affordable or free editing software.

13 June 20224 min read

Technology and innovation

Web Design: 2022 Trends

In 2022, corporate web design in Switzerland is focused on user experience, accessibility, mobile-first and purposeful animation. Companies need to update their websites to stay competitive and communicate professionalism. This article explores the key trends of 2022, from minimalist graphic styles to dark mode, from micro-animations to readable typography, showing how these choices affect usability, conversion and brand perception.

13 June 20222 min read

IT security and privacy

Data protection in Switzerland: a practical guide to the nFADP

Challenges and opportunities for businesses and professionals, in a fact sheet full of food for thought.

13 June 20223 min read

IT security and privacy

The new Swiss Federal Act on Data Protection (FADP)

In Switzerland, the Federal Act on Data Protection (FADP) governs the processing of personal data in order to protect the privacy of customers and employees. Even in 2020, before the revised version comes into force, the FADP requires companies to handle data lawfully, transparently and securely.

5 February 20204 min read

Technology and innovation

QR-bills in Switzerland: everything you need to know to issue them correctly

In 2020 the QR-bill was announced as the new Swiss payment standard, set to replace the traditional payment slips. Although it is not yet compulsory, businesses are encouraged to prepare by updating their software and administrative processes. The QR-bill simplifies payments, reduces errors and improves accounting automation.

5 February 20204 min read

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Insights for people running a business

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From theory to practice