Study: Artisans’ Future so Bright, They Gotta Wear Shades

A study from Intuit, authored by the Institute for the Future, is saying that artisans will be the brightest stars in the future of small business.

Basically they’re saying that these "next generation" artisans will be able to utilize technology in the next ten years as it continues to advance to "amplify their reach and capabilities."

Three trends we are likely to see according to the study are:

- Brain Meets Brawn to Create Opportunities for Small Business – The emergence of barbell-like economic structures will drive new business collaborations, creating greater opportunity and profitability for small business.

– Barriers Down, Small Business Opportunities Up – Access to big business infrastructure will expand, making their sophisticated technologies available to small and personal businesses, at lower risk, with a variable cost structure.

– The Next Wave of Globalization Will be Driven by Small Business - Muted trade barriers, improved technology, and professional and social networks across borders will facilitate small business access to new markets.

"Like their medieval predecessors in pre-industrial Europe and Asia, these next-gen artisans will ply their trade outside the walls of big business, making a living with their craftsmanship and knowledge," says co-author of the study, Steve King.

"But there also will be marked differences. In many cases, brain will meet brawn; software and technology will replace hard iron and hard labor. As a result, small businesses will increasingly serve international markets and customers as easily as they serve their local customers today," he added.

While some are predicting doom for the small business online, small business craftsmen can put on their shades, because their future looks bright.