Final answer:
Both small and big businesses are affected by poor communication due to the importance of collaboration and cross-cultural interactions. New technologies can both help small businesses grow and support large firms' management across global operations. The size of a firm does not insulate it from the pitfalls of poor communication.
Step-by-step explanation:
The debate regarding the impact of new information and communications technologies on the size of firms is multifaceted. In the era of globalization, small businesses have the tools to expand their reach globally, fostering a landscape with numerous small competitors. On the flip side, the same technologies can facilitate the emergence of dominant players in a 'winner-take-all' market and empower large firms to manage operations across vast geographies more effectively. Thus, contrary to the statement that poor communication only negatively affects big businesses, it is clear that small businesses also face challenges. Communication is critical at all levels, and issues can arise regardless of the size of the organization, impacting collaborations, cross-cultural interactions, and ultimately, the successful meeting of customers' needs.