Cost, a lack of time, and inflexibility are the leading challenges faced by SMEs when it comes to managing their digital tools, according to the British Chambers of Commerce.
After a survey of more than 900 firms, the BCC says the results come at a time when SMEs are already facing an uphill battle to survive with rising inflation, spiralling energy costs and low growth risking long-term prosperity.
The management of digital tools stood out as a significant cause for concern for SMEs, with almost four in ten believing they did not have the capacity to effectively manage multiple ICT suppliers, contracts, and licences.
A quarter did not feel that their digital tools were resilient enough to help protect their business from emerging trends; just over a fifth did not feel that their digital tools were secure, whilst 17% disagreed their current suppliers of connectivity tools enabled them to adapt to changing circumstances.
BCC Director General Shevaun Haviland said:“In an environment where businesses are facing spiralling energy costs, record inflation and a declining economy, firms must feel confident in the technology they rely on to serve their needs and carry them into the future.
“Our Connectivity Survey has highlighted significant areas of concerns for businesses, with firms expressing particularly low levels of confidence in the flexibility and value for money offered to them by suppliers.
“With BCC data highlighting the huge challenges businesses are facing in the current economic environment, now more than ever, they need help wherever they can find it. Finding the right connectivity tools for firms can not only save time and money, it can also help future-proof businesses against further challenges down the line.
“Suppliers of digital tools and services must work with businesses, in particular small and medium sized businesses, to ensure that they find their right fit and reap the benefits of a flexible and secure connectivity offering.”
