By Joyjeet Bose, Sr. Vice- President, Tata Teleservices
In the era of digital advancements where technology is evolving faster than ever before, small and mid-sized businesses (SMBs) born before the IP era are finding themselves at a crossroads. This is because leading companies and emerging startups are already digitally agile and are working on their toes to serve new markets and break through existing market barriers to meet the needs of a much broader customer base. So, the matter of fact is that either SMBs can take charge of the situation and evolve or remain obsolete.
The use of technology in a digital world has become a hot topic for many companies across the globe as it can increase performance, visibility, enhance customer experience and what not. In fact, business digitisation has become a top priority for over 80% of business executives. The prevailing sentiment among these leaders is that neglecting to digitise their companies could result in a loss of their competitive edge, which can have a significant impact on their business growth. Hence, they are actively engaged in efforts to transform and digitise their businesses.
However, the demands of SMBs born before the digital era and those born in a world already immersed in the digital milieu are very different from each other. This demarcation signifies a profound contrast in their digitisation requirements. SMBs rooted in traditional practices, need to face the challenge of not just embracing but navigating the complexities of a digital landscape. The very fabric of their day-to-day operations requires recalibration, demanding an amalgamation of the old and the new.
On the other hand, SMBs born in the digital age inherently possess a digital DNA. For them, the challenge lies not in adopting digital practices but in leveraging technology to streamline and fortify their existing processes. The transition from non-IP to the IP era is more about refining the digital tools at their disposal rather than undergoing a fundamental overhaul.
Finding solutions by re-thinking technology implementation approach
Adopting the route of digitisation for traditional SMBs begins with a shift in perspective. To bridge this digital gap, rethinking the technology implementation approach becomes imperative. It’s not merely about introducing new tools but about fostering a cultural shift within the organisation. Understanding that technology is not just a solution, but an enabler is key. It’s about aligning technology with the unique needs and challenges of each SMB, ensuring that the digital transformation journey is not just a leap but a purposeful stride.
Instead of fixating on the term “technology,” focus on your daily activities. Identify pain points, think about the potential solutions, and articulate those on paper. It’s about letting your challenges guide you to the right kind of technology you need, not the other way around. Express your problems in simple terms, and you’ll discover numerous solutions. Take the initiative to find your answers, engage with the right solution or technology partners, and drive the discussion forward for a frictionless digital experience.
Overcoming the resistance in technology adoption
Many SMB owners are sceptical about technology adoption, and they often find it difficult to embrace the benefits of smart digital solutions. Well, resistance is a common challenge and is often deeply rooted in three primary fears: concerns about manageability, a perception of technology’s complexity, and apprehension about its dynamic nature. To address this challenge, the concerns of SMBs, especially those transitioning from non-digital to digital realms, must be acknowledged. A collaborative approach must be employed, providing forums and portals for SMBs to experience and comprehend technology at their own pace.
The vulnerabilities faced by traditional SMBs underscore the need for a holistic approach to digitisation. Security concerns, often exacerbated by a lack of familiarity with digital landscapes, necessitate comprehensive training programs. It’s not just about implementing firewalls but about fostering a cybersecurity mindset among employees. For instance if we consider a very basic requirement, a company facing slow internet speed, security concerns, and scalability issues can be given a comprehensive solution leveraging Smart Internet, an internet leased line (ILL) connection. This dedicated connection will offer symmetric download and upload speed that will significantly improve productivity and minimise latency. Similarly, Smart Internet will not only enhance security against cyber threats in real-time but will also provide a portal for IT administrators to monitor internet performance comprehensively. Digitised solutions like these will not only provide fortified digital connectivity but can also boost any SMB’s operational excellence and sustainability.
In conclusion, by understanding the digital landscape, prioritising customer-centric approaches, and embracing an agile mindset, businesses can not only survive but also thrive in the digital era. The journey is not without hurdles, but by identifying these challenges and rethinking the approach to technology implementation, SMBs can navigate the digital seas. Remember, the key is not just adaptation but continuous evolution to stay ahead in the ever-changing digital landscape.
