The internet is becoming increasingly vital for SMEs, according to the Chartered Institute of Marketing (CIM).

Offering a cheap and effective marketing channel, the web is "invaluable" for smaller firms but they are advised to have sufficient IT support in place.

According to the Federation of Small Businesses, some six per cent of SMEs buy goods on eBay, with 18.4 per cent trading on the internet in one way or another.

David Thorp, director of research and information at the CIM, said: "For SMEs, an internet presence is increasingly vital. With over a billion people now online around the world, the internet opens the door for SMEs to a global audience that previously was only accessible to those with large budgets or good contacts."

In terms of outsourcing e-marketing activities, Mr Thorp stressed that SMEs should be "clear" about what they want their marketing to achieve, and communicate ideas clearly.

"When choosing an agency, make sure you communicate clearly what you want to achieve and agree measurable targets to ensure you see progress made against your objectives," he said.

A recent Connect survey found that the two major concerns about outsourcing services like IT support were 'loss of control' (56 per cent) and 'budget over-runs' (43 per cent)