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It takes more than just putting up a website these days if you are serious about growing your online business in an extremely competitive environment. Your online business needs to evolve and have the ability to leverage new techniques and strategies. What worked a few months ago may not work today.

Consider search engine optimization, for example. Up until last year, the way search engines looked at websites hadn’t changed much. In an effort to level the playing field and provide more accurate search results, Google has made considerable changes in its search algorithms that have had a major impact on some of the world’s most recognizable brand names. Having been caught off-guard caused them to suffer extensive decreases in their online sales. Since more than 80% of searches are conducted on Google, most online businesses are directly impacted by its search results. Google now makes changes to its algorithm on a monthly basis and more dramatic changes are expected as it adds more signals that will affect how websites rank in its search results.

Social media is playing a more important role in growing businesses both online and offline. Google, for instance, uses Google Plus to provide a more personalized and accurate search result. Online businesses that integrate social media into their website and e-commerce stores will be in a better position to compete. Customers have embraced social media because it gives them a way to voice their opinions. They can help your business grow by sharing their experience with their friends. Businesses also use social media to get the word out. Many companies use Twitter and other social media outlets as a customer support tool to keep clients updated about important events.

Finally, companies that are riding the current upward trend in mobile devices are exploring new markets and improving their efficiencies with mobile applications. It is relatively easy to find mobile application developers that will build mobile apps for both Apple and Android devices. These apps can be downloaded directly from iTunes and the Android Market. With millions of users either converting to or upgrading their smart phone and tablets, investing in mobile application development is a great way to grow your business in an extremely competitive environment. You have a choice: either evolve, or get left behind.