The topic of “Impact Of Digital Platforms On Small Businesses” is becoming increasingly relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2 examinations. Based on recent trends and the growing importance of digital transformation in the business world, we can expect this theme to appear more frequently in future tests. To help you prepare, let’s analyze a related question that has appeared in past IELTS exams and provide sample essays for different band scores.
Analyzing the Question
Let’s examine a question that closely resembles those found in actual IELTS exams:
In recent years, digital platforms have significantly impacted small businesses. Some people believe this impact has been largely positive, while others argue it has created new challenges for small business owners. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Question Breakdown:
- Topic: The impact of digital platforms on small businesses
- Task: Discuss both positive and negative views, then provide your opinion
- Key points to address:
- Positive impacts of digital platforms on small businesses
- Challenges created by digital platforms for small business owners
- Your personal stance on the overall impact
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
The proliferation of digital platforms has revolutionized the business landscape, particularly for small enterprises. While some argue that this digital transformation has been overwhelmingly beneficial, others contend that it has introduced new obstacles for small business owners. This essay will examine both perspectives before presenting my own viewpoint.
Proponents of digital platforms emphasize the unprecedented opportunities they offer to small businesses. Firstly, these platforms provide access to a global customer base, enabling even the smallest local shops to expand their reach beyond geographical constraints. For instance, a handmade jewelry artisan in Vietnam can now sell their creations to customers in Europe or America through e-commerce platforms like Etsy. Additionally, digital marketing tools and social media platforms allow small businesses to compete with larger corporations on a more level playing field, often at a fraction of the cost of traditional advertising methods. This democratization of marketing has enabled many small businesses to build strong brand identities and loyal customer bases.
On the other hand, critics argue that the rise of digital platforms has created significant challenges for small business owners. One major concern is the intense competition fostered by these platforms, which can lead to price wars and reduced profit margins. Small businesses often struggle to compete with larger companies that can afford to offer lower prices or free shipping. Furthermore, the constant need to adapt to rapidly evolving digital technologies and algorithms can be overwhelming and costly for small business owners with limited resources. For example, changes in search engine algorithms can drastically affect a small business’s online visibility overnight, potentially leading to a sudden drop in sales.
In my opinion, while digital platforms do present certain challenges, their overall impact on small businesses has been largely positive. The opportunities for growth, increased market reach, and cost-effective marketing far outweigh the potential drawbacks. However, it is crucial for small business owners to approach digital platforms strategically, focusing on niche markets and unique value propositions to differentiate themselves from larger competitors. By leveraging the strengths of digital platforms while maintaining their unique identity and personalized service, small businesses can thrive in the digital age.
In conclusion, digital platforms have undoubtedly transformed the small business landscape. While they introduce new challenges, the potential for growth and success they offer is unprecedented. As the digital ecosystem continues to evolve, small businesses that can adeptly navigate these platforms will likely find themselves well-positioned for sustainable growth and success.
(Word count: 398)
Essay Analysis (Band 8-9)
This essay demonstrates excellent qualities that align with Band 8-9 criteria:
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Task Response: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, discussing both positive and negative views and clearly presenting a personal opinion.
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Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is well-organized with clear progression throughout. Each paragraph focuses on a specific point, and ideas are logically linked using a variety of cohesive devices.
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Lexical Resource: The essay uses a wide range of vocabulary with very natural and sophisticated control of lexical features. Examples include “proliferation,” “democratization,” and “algorithms.”
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Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay demonstrates a wide range of grammatical structures used accurately and appropriately. Complex sentences are used effectively without errors.
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Development of Ideas: Each main point is well-developed with relevant examples and explanations, showing in-depth understanding of the topic.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
In today’s world, digital platforms have become very important for small businesses. Some people think these platforms have helped small businesses a lot, while others believe they have created new problems. This essay will discuss both sides of this issue and give my opinion.
On the positive side, digital platforms have given small businesses many new opportunities. First, they allow small companies to reach more customers. For example, a small shop can now sell products online to people in different countries. Second, digital platforms make advertising cheaper and easier. Small businesses can use social media to promote their products without spending a lot of money on traditional advertising.
However, there are also some challenges that come with digital platforms. One problem is that there is more competition now. Small businesses have to compete with big companies online, which can be difficult. Another issue is that small business owners need to learn new skills to use digital platforms effectively. This can take a lot of time and effort, which some small business owners might find hard.
In my opinion, I think digital platforms are mostly good for small businesses. Even though there are some challenges, the benefits of reaching more customers and having cheaper ways to advertise are very important. Small businesses should try to learn how to use these platforms well to get the most benefit from them.
To conclude, digital platforms have both good and bad effects on small businesses. While they create some new challenges, they also offer many opportunities for growth. Small businesses that learn to use these platforms well can become more successful in the long run.
(Word count: 282)
Essay Analysis (Band 6-7)
This essay demonstrates qualities that align with Band 6-7 criteria:
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Task Response: The essay addresses all parts of the task, discussing both views and presenting a personal opinion. However, the ideas could be more fully developed.
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Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is generally well-organized with clear overall progression. Basic cohesive devices are used, but more sophisticated linking of ideas could improve the flow.
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Lexical Resource: The essay uses an adequate range of vocabulary for the task. There are attempts to use less common vocabulary (e.g., “promote,” “effectively”), but the range is not as wide as in the Band 8-9 essay.
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Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentence forms. There are no major grammatical errors, but the range of structures is not as wide as in higher band scores.
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Development of Ideas: Main ideas are relevant and supported with some examples, but the level of detail and explanation is not as thorough as in the Band 8-9 essay.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
- Proliferation (noun) – /prəˌlɪf.əˈreɪ.ʃən/ – rapid increase in the number or amount of something
- Democratization (noun) – /dɪˌmɒk.rə.taɪˈzeɪ.ʃən/ – the action of making something accessible to everyone
- Algorithm (noun) – /ˈæl.ɡə.rɪ.ðəm/ – a set of rules to be followed in calculations or problem-solving operations
- Niche market (noun) – /niːʃ ˈmɑː.kɪt/ – a small but specific and well-defined segment of the market
- Leverage (verb) – /ˈlev.ər.ɪdʒ/ – use (something) to maximum advantage
- Adeptly (adverb) – /əˈdept.li/ – in a skillful or expert manner
- Ecosystem (noun) – /ˈiː.kəʊˌsɪs.təm/ – a complex network or interconnected system
- Sustainable (adjective) – /səˈsteɪ.nə.bəl/ – able to be maintained at a certain rate or level
- Unprecedented (adjective) – /ʌnˈpres.ɪ.den.tɪd/ – never done or known before
- Evolve (verb) – /ɪˈvɒlv/ – develop gradually, especially from a simple to a more complex form
Conclusion
The impact of digital platforms on small businesses is a highly relevant topic in today’s IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. As we’ve seen, this subject allows for a rich discussion of both positive and negative aspects, making it an excellent choice for showcasing your analytical and writing skills.
To further prepare for your IELTS exam, consider practicing with similar topics such as:
- The role of social media in modern business marketing
- The effects of e-commerce on traditional retail businesses
- The importance of digital literacy for entrepreneurs in the 21st century
- The challenges of data privacy and security for small businesses in the digital age
Remember, the key to success in IELTS Writing Task 2 is not just about having good ideas, but also about presenting them clearly and coherently. Practice writing essays on these topics, focusing on structure, vocabulary, and grammar. Don’t forget to time yourself to ensure you can complete the task within the allocated 40 minutes.
We encourage you to try writing your own essay on the topic discussed in this article. Feel free to post your practice essay in the comments section below. This active practice will help you improve your writing skills and prepare you for success in your IELTS exam. Good luck with your preparation!