By Jonathan Westlake, Entrepreneur in Residence and Help To Grow Team member.
Whether we are Post pandemic or still in the pandemic is academic, it is clear from recent research outputs that the pandemic has been a watershed for businesses in general, a forced catalyst for change. In the mix of all that change is Digital.
Much is written about “digital” some of it evangelical, some of it useful, some of it repetitious, regurgitating of bandwagon headlines, do this! do that! you need to be doing this! Over the early part of October 2021, we have seen numerous events/directions emerge in the news, the current UK’s drive towards a digitally skilled (BCS 2021), high wage economy, the fragilities of social medium platforms, the continuing debate about the digital divide within the UK firms and workforce and don’t mention Gas!
It is well documented (ERC 2021) that over the last 18 months of the pandemic business landscape, firms who embraced digital change or initiated digital change insulated themselves somewhat from the ravages of the circumstances. Digital technology can be seen a disruptor if employed with thought and can provoke the chance to do a so called “pivot”. The rise of click and collect, the role of eCommerce and a growing reliance of internet enabled systems are evidence of adapted business models.
Digital adoption is not new, the computerisation, automation of business processes, communication via remote means has existed from 50+ years. What is unprecedented with the Covid 19 pandemic has been the scale, the response needed to survive, and justifying savings, whilst helping a business grow.
Refreshing the drive towards digital readiness for small firms is important and there is help available. Answers to questions regarding: What low cost and “doable” digital adoption opportunities are out there? And how do we go about it?
A non-ad Hoc plan is recommended to examine areas of a business that may benefit from digitisation. With an awareness of what the “as is” areas of the business are, it is worthwhile reviewing how digital technology can create a “to be” over a period. Building a digital adoption plan can help map out change. On the Help to Grow programme (SBC 2021) this digital adoption investigation and strategy forms part of the programme.
Opportunities for digital adoption include a myriad of normal business functions ranging from marketing to operations. Research has also shown that senior management support, and the involvement of other stakeholders is vital to avoid disappointment. Challenging the existing digital presence with a firm can be highly beneficial and informative for the digital adoption plan: what impact does the existing website have; is anyone responding to the social media channels; has electronic documentation quickened the flow of data within the organisation?
The digital adoption opportunities available to a small business will of course depend on the context. The small business that finds the time to address digital adoption will find reward. To mitigate the time, join the Help to Grow programme (SBC 2021), network with other businesses in a matter-of-fact way and plan a digital way forward.
Ready to learn more with Help To Grow in Staffordshire? Book your place today.
References:
British Computer Society (BCS)
Small Business Charter (SBC) – Help to Grow Management
Enterprise Research Centre (ERC)
If you would like to contact Jonathan, please email htg@staffs.ac.uk today.