Setting up a business, or extending your existing business into a new region can be challenging, not least because of the distance between branches and head office, and sometimes because of the need to create IT infrastructures in a remote areas. The more offices a business operates, the greater the exposure to risks, including natural disasters, cyber attacks and even simple human error.

To manage these risks, it is important that businesses pay constant attention to the smallest details and set up a resilient infrastructure to connect disparate locations. This requires not only the dynamic management of people, processes and tools, but the partnership with a service provider that has a truly global footprint and on-the-ground, local capabilities.

A study by MIT shows that the most digitally advanced companies perform considerably better than their competitors in their sector, as well as enjoying a higher perception of their value in their markets.

Technology is enabling successful companies to undergo a subtle mind shift from viewing themselves as a multinational to viewing themselves as a global company. An employee from any office of a global company could step into any other office around the world and still perform their duties with the same level of proficiency.

Therefore, the best global IT service providers deliver coaching for businesses aimed at helping them to get the most out of their communications tools mix.

Engaging with a trusted ICT partner can unlock opportunities for businesses that they may not have considered possible before. When expanding into a new market, businesses should not be afraid to go to their service provider with a wish list, no matter how seemingly outrageous.

Companies may well be surprised at what is possible and equally surprised at the affordability of it. Collaborative solutions like screen sharing on presentations, or switching to video to demonstrate a prototype are possible and not necessarily expensive. When these types of tools are implemented trust is built between employees in different regions, and deeper relationships across cultures are fostered – ultimately benefitting the business.

Further advantages of borderless collaboration come when business software is hosted in the cloud. This negates the need for software roll out in every location and it significantly drives down costs. When employees access resources in the cloud, it helps to maintain global company consistency.

The time for global expansion is now. Emerging markets now contribute 36% to the global GDP, but only 17% to the revenues of the world's largest companies. Although new start-ups that grow exponentially dominate the headlines, it should be borne in mind that in the USA, market leaders in 1925 remained dominant for the next 75 years. It is therefore clear that early players gain a tangible advantage.

However, a head start will amount to little if it is does not keep track with the latest developments.

In a recent PwC Global CEO survey, 81% of companies expect technological progress to be the main factor of change over the next five years. Of the world's leading manufacturing companies, 50% invest in IT applications and infrastructures to be more agile and flexible, compared to only 20% of non-leading competitors.

Communications networks have transformed how global businesses can work together. Ensuring business continuity in regions relies on building a diverse infrastructure to keep global communications flowing. This is achieved by establishing a network comprised of physical path diversity and multiple connectivity alternatives, including submarine cable, satellite and terrestrial.

Your service provider should have high-level network path control in place to allow for automated rerouting of traffic when interruptions occur. The service provider must also consult other important factors such as how to install effective backup power and uninterruptible power supply systems, and maintaining your physical and virtual security infrastructure.

While there will always be challenges associated with expanding into a new region, an approach that is based on a strong IT platform can assist in the success of breaking new ground.

* Mark McCallum is the director and chief technology officer, Orange Business Services.