Sometimes it seems like people spend more time in virtual worlds than offline and in reality. Online platforms - from social media to websites - are becoming increasingly central avenues for attracting new customers and engaging existing ones.
Some small business accounting options are moving predominantly online, as well, though vendors like Accomplish offer offline options, too.
However, not all Kiwis have access to speedy, reliable internet. Is this problem holding SMEs back?
According to the latest MYOB Digital Nation report, about a third of New Zealand small business owners said they were dissatisfied with the reliability and speed of their plan. While this leaves means the majority are happy enough with their connection, it's still a significant portion of the nation's important sector.
Not surprisingly, the proportion of displeased internet consumers increased in rural areas, where 44 per cent of SME operators expressed dissatisfaction.
"The internet provides a platform for engagement in both the domestic and the international market - even for the smallest business with a unique product or service to sell and story to tell," said James Scollay, MYOB Business Division general manager.
While Mr Scollay also noted that strong internet could "level the playing field" for small organisations, business leaders don't always have much control over the quality of service they can procure.
Until high-speed connections are available throughout the country, SME leaders can seek ways to boost their business without relying too heavily on the internet.
For example, choosing a PC-based version for accounting software might be the better option if companies don't have dependable connectivity. Accomplish offers SMEs the choice between online and PC-based CashManager, enabling them to select the program that best meets their needs.
Although SMEs may still strive for a stronger online presence in other ways, poor internet doesn't have to prevent good accounting.