The use of digital technology has significantly improved the productivity of 87% of workers surveyed by LeanBPI, the Irish digital growth consultancy for SMEs and micro businesses.
LeanBPI partnered with LEO Network for the ‘Exploring Technology Readiness of Irish Small Businesses’ report, a survey of small business owner-managers. CSO data shows that there are almost 350,000 micro and small businesses across the country.
The survey also highlighted that the need for support to maximize these benefits was clear, with only 60% saying they were satisfied with the digital tools they currently used. In total, 63% cited relationships with customers, employers and peers as the main reason for adopting digital technology.
The report recognized the role of existing government supports in driving digital transformation in small businesses. These include the Digital for Business initiative, as well as the Grow Digital vouchers, which offer grants of up to €5,000 for subscriptions, training and software configuration.
Expanding on these aspects, it recommended an adaptive policy framework to annually assess the effectiveness of current policies, as well as the collection of targeted data to inform future policies and tailored interventions that address specific sector needs.
The LeanBPI survey also ranks each SME’s digital aptitude levels from ‘avoidants’ to ‘explorers’. This profile is then used to prescribe the best course of action to drive digital adoption for that company.
Co-written by John O’Shanahan, CEO of LeanBPI, and Professor Anuragini Shirish, Institute Mines-Télécom Business School, France, the report was launched at the Breaffy House Hotel, Co Mayo, by Dara Calleary, Minister of State for Transformation Digital. and John Magee, president of LEO Network.
In this Q&A interview, LeanBPI’s John O’Shanahan describes why the survey found such a strong desire to engage with digital technologies among people working in small businesses.
Digital adoption allows employees to reduce time spent on repetitive or time-consuming tasks, freeing them to focus on more interesting work. Digital systems reduce the risk of human error and the associated stress on the business when an error occurs.
Typically in a small business, one person may be responsible for specific processes and may be the go-to person or expert for that task, so when that person is absent or leaves the company, it creates pressure. additional information about the person. playing that role, as they may not have the same experience with the system. A reduction in manual tasks, with more efficient workflows and fewer errors, improves job satisfaction.
Yes, in today’s workplace, young people are more comfortable with digital tools. Companies that use digital tools are showing that they are more forward-thinking and adapt to the times. Outdated manual systems put additional pressure on employees, while on the other hand, efficient digital systems are like a co-worker who never gets tired and is always there to help. Companies that implement effective digital systems are providing their staff with the tools to help make their jobs easier. From a business perspective and in a market where there is a shortage of people and talent, the right person may not be available when you need them. Having technology to close that gap can be very helpful.
The survey highlights that Irish small businesses are showing significant interest in digital adoption as a route to growth and resilience. While many companies are motivated to integrate digital tools, the survey reveals a variety of readiness levels and several barriers to full adoption, such as limited resources and digital skills gaps. However, the findings highlight that with targeted support, even companies that are hesitant or cautious about digital transformation are open to adopting practical, proven solutions. The survey shows that Irish small businesses recognize that digitalisation is essential for long-term success and are actively exploring ways to leverage it.
With significant financial support from LEO, how can SMEs take advantage of this opportunity to boost their internal digital skills and safeguard the future of their businesses?
With the support of LEO financing, SMEs have the opportunity to prioritize upskilling and develop internal digital capabilities. The Digital for Business program is a free 3-day program that can help a business select the right digital tools or help them optimize existing digital solutions. The following Grow Digital bonus provides financial support for the first year of software subscription. By investing in digital training, companies can improve employees’ skills and confidence in using technology, strengthening their operational resilience.
LEO support enables businesses to adopt customized solutions that align with their specific needs, from automating repetitive tasks to improving customer engagement. By taking advantage of these tools and resources, SMEs can improve productivity and remain competitive.