Automation and its effects on small businesses is a topic that has gained significant attention in recent years. This subject has appeared in various forms in IELTS Writing Task 2 questions, reflecting its relevance to modern economic discussions. Based on past exam trends and the increasing importance of automation in business, we can expect this theme to continue appearing in future IELTS tests. Let’s examine a relevant question that closely resembles those seen in actual IELTS exams:
Some people think that automation is detrimental to small businesses, while others believe it can help them compete with larger companies. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Analysis of the Question
This question requires candidates to:
- Discuss the negative impacts of automation on small businesses
- Explore how automation can benefit small businesses in competing with larger firms
- Provide a personal opinion on the overall effect of automation on small businesses
The question touches on a complex issue, allowing for a nuanced discussion of economic trends, technological advancements, and business strategies. It’s crucial to address both perspectives before presenting a well-reasoned opinion.
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
Automation has become a pivotal factor in shaping the business landscape, and its impact on small enterprises is a topic of heated debate. While some argue that automation poses significant challenges for small businesses, others contend that it offers opportunities for these firms to level the playing field with their larger counterparts. In my view, although automation presents initial hurdles, it ultimately provides small businesses with the tools to enhance their competitiveness and efficiency.
Critics of automation often point to the substantial initial investment required, which can be prohibitively expensive for small businesses with limited capital. This financial burden may force some small enterprises out of the market, unable to keep pace with larger, more resource-rich competitors. Furthermore, automation can lead to job losses in small businesses, particularly for low-skilled workers, potentially damaging local economies and community relationships that these businesses often support.
However, proponents argue that automation offers numerous benefits that can help small businesses thrive. By automating routine tasks, small enterprises can significantly improve their operational efficiency, allowing them to allocate resources more effectively and focus on core competencies. This increased productivity can lead to cost savings and improved quality of products or services, enabling small businesses to compete more effectively with larger corporations. Additionally, automation can provide small businesses with access to data analytics and customer insights previously available only to larger firms, facilitating more informed decision-making and targeted marketing strategies.
In my opinion, while the initial challenges of implementing automation are undeniable, the long-term benefits for small businesses outweigh the drawbacks. The key lies in strategic implementation and adaptation. Small businesses that carefully assess their needs and gradually integrate automated solutions can reap the benefits of increased efficiency without incurring overwhelming costs. Moreover, automation can actually create new job opportunities in small businesses, shifting the focus from routine tasks to more value-added roles that require human creativity and problem-solving skills.
In conclusion, automation is a double-edged sword for small businesses, presenting both challenges and opportunities. However, with thoughtful implementation and a focus on leveraging technology to enhance rather than replace human capabilities, small businesses can use automation as a powerful tool to boost their competitiveness and ensure long-term success in an increasingly digital economy.
(Word count: 368)
Infographic showing automation's impact on small businesses
Explanation of Band 8-9 Score
This essay demonstrates the characteristics of a high-scoring IELTS Writing Task 2 response:
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Task Achievement: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, discussing both views and providing a clear personal opinion.
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Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is well-organized with clear progression throughout. Each paragraph has a central theme, and ideas are logically connected.
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Lexical Resource: A wide range of vocabulary is used accurately and appropriately. Complex phrases like “prohibitively expensive,” “operational efficiency,” and “core competencies” demonstrate sophisticated language use.
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Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a variety of complex structures accurately. Conditional sentences, passive voice, and complex noun phrases are employed effectively.
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Development of Ideas: Each point is well-developed with relevant examples and explanations, showing depth of critical thinking.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
Automation is changing how businesses work, and people have different opinions about how it affects small businesses. Some think it’s bad for small companies, while others believe it can help them compete with bigger firms. I will discuss both sides and give my opinion.
On one hand, automation can be harmful to small businesses. The main problem is that it’s expensive to buy and set up automated systems. Small businesses often don’t have much money, so they might not be able to afford these new technologies. This could make it hard for them to keep up with larger companies that can easily pay for automation. Also, if small businesses use machines to do jobs that people used to do, some workers might lose their jobs. This could be bad for the local community.
On the other hand, automation can be helpful for small businesses. When small companies use automated systems, they can work faster and make fewer mistakes. This means they can produce more goods or serve more customers without hiring more people. Automation can also help small businesses collect and use data about their customers, which can help them make better decisions. These benefits could help small businesses compete with larger companies that have more resources.
In my opinion, automation can be good for small businesses if they use it carefully. While it’s true that setting up automated systems can be expensive at first, I think the long-term benefits are worth it. Small businesses that use automation wisely can become more efficient and competitive. However, they should also think about how automation affects their workers and try to find new roles for people whose jobs might be replaced by machines.
To conclude, automation has both positive and negative effects on small businesses. The key is for small companies to find the right balance between using new technologies and keeping the human touch that often makes small businesses special.
(Word count: 323)
Small business owner using an automated system
Explanation of Band 6-7 Score
This essay demonstrates the characteristics of a mid-range IELTS Writing Task 2 response:
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Task Achievement: The essay addresses all parts of the task, presenting both views and offering a personal opinion. However, the ideas could be more fully developed.
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Coherence and Cohesion: The essay has a clear structure with introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion. However, the use of cohesive devices is somewhat limited and repetitive.
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Lexical Resource: The vocabulary used is adequate for the task, with some attempt at using less common words. However, the range is more limited compared to the Band 8-9 essay.
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Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentences with generally good control. There are fewer complex structures compared to the higher band essay.
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Development of Ideas: While the main points are present, they could be elaborated on further with more specific examples or deeper analysis.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
- Automation (noun) – /ˌɔːtəˈmeɪʃən/ – the use of machines and computers to do work that was previously done by people
- Detrimental (adjective) – /ˌdetrɪˈmentl/ – causing harm or damage
- Competitiveness (noun) – /kəmˈpetətɪvnəs/ – the ability to be as successful as other businesses
- Operational efficiency (noun phrase) – /ˌɒpəˈreɪʃənl ɪˈfɪʃənsi/ – the ability to deliver products or services in the most cost-effective manner possible
- Resource allocation (noun phrase) – /rɪˈsɔːs ˌæləˈkeɪʃən/ – the process of assigning and managing assets in a manner that supports an organization’s strategic goals
- Data analytics (noun phrase) – /ˈdeɪtə ˌænəˈlɪtɪks/ – the process of examining data sets to draw conclusions about the information they contain
- Strategic implementation (noun phrase) – /strəˈtiːdʒɪk ˌɪmplɪmenˈteɪʃən/ – the process of putting plans and strategies into action
- Value-added roles (noun phrase) – /ˈvæljuː ˌædɪd rəʊlz/ – job positions that contribute to the creation of a product in a way that increases its worth or value
In conclusion, the topic of automation’s impact on small businesses is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2. To prepare effectively, practice writing essays on related themes such as technological advancements in business, the changing nature of work, and the challenges faced by small enterprises in a digital economy. Remember to always address all parts of the question, develop your ideas with specific examples, and aim for a clear and coherent structure in your essay.
We encourage readers to practice writing their own essays on this topic and share them in the comments section for feedback and discussion. This active engagement can significantly improve your IELTS Writing skills and prepare you for success in the actual test.
How automation is transforming traditional industries is another important aspect to consider when discussing the broader implications of technological advancements on businesses. As you prepare for your IELTS exam, it’s crucial to stay informed about these trends and their potential impacts on various sectors of the economy.
