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10 questions for an effective strategy in Digital Export

10 questions for an effective strategy in Digital Export

In summary
  • In Digital Export, the digital component is at the service of exports: analysis, research and knowledge of international markets are needed, not just digital skills.
  • Before starting a business, it must clarify ten strategic aspects, from the target countries to the budget, from logistics to marketplaces, and even the management of new customers.
  • Barriers to online sales, such as certifications and tariffs, as well as local buying and payment habits, should be verified in advance.
  • In 2020, Italian digital exports grew by 14% and reached 13.5 billion euros, while the domestic market fell by 1.4% in the first quarter.
  • Octagona boasts 20 years of experience, 850 completed projects, more than 50 professionals in more than 40 countries and a place among the top 5 international advisory companies in Italy.

Why Digital Export seems “go into fashion.”? Because when a market becomes attractive, everyone wants to take advantage of the opportunity: it is the fear of being excluded.

The investment opportunities are many, and the greater they are, the greater are also the related risks. If we add to this the little time one has available, there goes the “omelet”: too often we rely on those who do not know this field, and the consequences are missing and unsatisfactory results.

Be followed by Those who have only digital experience is not enough. Analysis, research and deep knowledge of international markets are required: in Digital Export, the part digital is at the service of the’export.

Not only that: in addition to all this, it is essential to build a strategy of business effective, capable of supporting your company's Digital Export. Every entrepreneur knows how important it is Ask questions before acting: it is the essence of planning. That is why to pose the right questions is the element that makes a difference in the growth of your business. Below we have selected a few that you absolutely must take if you want to focus on Digital Export. Of course, there would be many more, but for those we invite you to schedule a free first consultation.

10 effective strategic questions you need to ask yourself before you leave

On which Target countries Is it better to address?

Because, and how to choose them?

It makes sense to choose multiple markets Or is it better to focus energies on only one or two countries?

Which and how many products Does it make sense to propose in target markets?

How are you going to build your budget In such a way as to precisely define the resources needed?

Have you already identified the logistics model most effective by weighing the pros and cons of different options?

How can you take advantage of the marketplace To sell more?

Have you already checked whether there are any barriers to entry specifics for online sales such as certifications or duties?

Have you done an analysis of the purchasing habits and major payment systems used in the target countries?

You already have a system for manage all new customers who will come into contact with your company?

In 2020, Italian digital exports grew by +14%, reaching a total value of 13.5 billion euros; the domestic market, on the other hand, is struggling to recover (-1.4% over Q1 2020).

By answering these questions, you will now know if you are ready to plan a successful SEO strategy in international markets. To do so, there are several avenues to take, and we have included numerous tips on our site regarding Digital Export. In case you don't know where to start, however, you can ask for our help. Here are some of the reasons why you should choose Octagona to focus on Digital Export: we have 20 years of experience in business internationalization and 850 successfully completed projects; we have over 50 professionals working in more than 40 countries; and finally, we are one of the leading companies in International Advisory and among the top 5 in Italy.

Now you just have to rely on Octagona's experience. If you are really interested in developing your business abroad, and building a quality digital export project then this is the opportunity you cannot miss.

Frequently Asked Questions

What questions should I ask before launching a Digital Export strategy for my company?

Before leaving, it is advisable to answer ten strategic questions. They concern the target countries, the choice between more markets or just one or two, the products to be offered, the budget, the logistical model, the marketplaces, barriers to entry, buying and payment habits, and managing new customers.

Is it better to focus on more foreign markets or to concentrate on one or two countries in digital exports?

It is one of the key questions to ask before leaving and there is no one-size-fits-all answer. You need to consider why you choose a country and how, and whether it is worth focusing your energy on one or two markets or distributing it across more. The decision depends on analysis and research into international markets.

Why is it not enough to rely on an agency with only digital experience for Digital Export?

A purely digital experience is not enough because in Digital Export the digital part is at the service of exports. Analysis, research and a deep understanding of international markets are needed, as well as an effective business strategy. Relying on someone who is not familiar with the sector often leads to missing and unsatisfactory results.

Which entry barriers must I check before selling online abroad?

Before selling online in a country, it is necessary to verify whether there are specific barriers to e-commerce, such as product certifications or tariffs. The consumer buying habits and the main payment systems used in that market must also be analyzed, as they affect feasibility and budget.

How much is the Italian digital export worth and why is it an opportunity for SMEs?

In 2020, Italian digital exports grew by 14%, reaching a total value of 13.5 billion euros. During the same period, the domestic market struggled to recover, with a decline of 1.4% in the first quarter of 2020. This figure shows the attractiveness of foreign markets, which, however, carries increasing risks.

What experience does Octagona have in supporting digital exports and internationalization?

Octagona boasts 20 years of experience in business internationalization and 850 projects successfully completed. It has more than 50 professionals active in more than 40 countries and is among the leading companies in International Advisory, ranking among the top 5 in Italy. It also offers a free initial consultation.

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