Author: SMD Networks
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How Many Startups Fail and Why
Startups are the lifeblood of innovation, driving new ideas and disrupting industries. However, the entrepreneurial journey is fraught with challenges, and the reality is that most startups don’t make it. Understanding startup failure rates and the reasons behind them is crucial for aspiring entrepreneurs to navigate risks and increase their chances of success. In this…
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How Fraudulent Activities Harm the Image of Business Service Firms and How Genuine Providers Can Rebuild Trust
Business service firms, particularly those in back-office support roles like IT, customer service, and financial processing, are vital to global operations due to their cost-effectiveness and skilled workforce. Countries like Pakistan, with a growing pool of talented professionals, have become hubs for such services. However, high-profile cases of fraudulent activities, such as those involving Digitonics…
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Beyond Advanced Tools to Effective Data Management
In today’s data-driven world, businesses often equate data analytics success with the deployment of cutting-edge tools and platforms. However, the true power of data analytics lies not just in sophisticated software but in how organizations collect, store, scale, and utilize their data. A holistic approach to data analytics ensures that businesses extract meaningful insights efficiently,…
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Good Practices for Customer Retention and Loyalty
Building Strong Relationships with Repeat Customers Customer retention and loyalty are critical for businesses that rely on repeat customers. Whether you run a subscription-based service, a retail store, or a professional service, fostering long-term relationships with your customers can significantly boost profitability and brand reputation. This blog explores proven strategies to enhance customer retention and…
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Pakistan’s Main IT Exports and Ranking
Pakistan’s IT sector has shown significant growth, with exports reaching $3.2 billion in FY2024, a 24% increase from $2.59 billion in FY2023. India leads the region with IT exports of approximately $250 billion in 2024, while the Philippines also boasts a strong IT and business process outsourcing (BPO) sector, which contributes significantly to its economy.…
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OpenAI and Jony Ive: Redefining AI Hardware Through a Landmark Partnership
In a move that has sent ripples through the tech world, OpenAI, the creator of ChatGPT, has partnered with legendary designer Jony Ive, the mastermind behind Apple’s iconic iPhone, iPod, iPad, and other groundbreaking products. Announced on May 21, 2025, this $6.5 billion deal involves OpenAI acquiring Ive’s AI hardware startup, io, in an all-stock…
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Staying Ahead: How Businesses Can Keep Up with Trends and Regulations in 2025
In today’s fast-paced business landscape, staying informed about changing trends and government regulations is critical for success. With 2025 bringing new challenges, such as evolving ESG mandates, data privacy laws, and shifting market dynamics, businesses must be proactive and adaptable to thrive. Here’s how your business can stay ahead of trends and regulations while remaining…
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The Rising Threat of Cyberattacks in Retail
Recent cybersecurity breaches at major retailers like Marks & Spencer (M&S), Co-op, and Hertz have underscored the growing vulnerability of the retail sector to sophisticated cyberattacks. These incidents, occurring in April and May 2025, highlight the urgent need for robust cybersecurity measures in an industry increasingly reliant on interconnected digital systems. Marks & Spencer: A…
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Mastercard’s Stablecoin Revolution: Bridging Crypto and Commerce
A New Era for Digital Payments On April 29, 2025, Mastercard announced a groundbreaking initiative to integrate stablecoin transactions into its global payment ecosystem, enabling seamless transactions from crypto wallets to merchant checkouts. This move marks a pivotal step in bridging traditional finance (TradFi) with the burgeoning world of decentralized finance (DeFi), potentially reshaping how…
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Pentagon Cancels $5.1 Billion in Consulting Contracts: Lessons for Business Efficiency
In April 2025, the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) made headlines by canceling $5.1 billion in consulting and information technology (IT) contracts. Spearheaded by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth under the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) initiative, this move aims to eliminate wasteful spending and redirect resources to core military priorities. For consulting businesses, this signals…
