Key Takeaway
Michelle Ovens CBE, Founder of Small Business Britain, emphasizes that small businesses are crucial to the UK economy and must leverage digital opportunities for growth. A BT survey reveals that 80% of small businesses adopting new technology gained a competitive edge, while 79% attracted new customers. Despite some initial hesitance towards digital adoption, today, 73% of business owners rely on reliable broadband and mobile services. BT warns that companies delaying digital migration may miss out on productivity-enhancing technologies like AI and AR. They are committed to supporting businesses of all sizes in their digital transformation journey.
Michelle Ovens CBE, Founder of Small Business Britain, states: “Small businesses are the driving force of the UK economy, but to fully realize their growth potential, entrepreneurs must embrace digital opportunities as much as possible.
“There is a significant eagerness among UK business owners to adopt technology and enhance their digital skills – especially since the pandemic, when developing these capabilities enabled many to adapt and thrive.”
Digital migration offers competitive advantages for businesses
While the BT survey revealed some hesitancy among businesses to adopt digital technologies, it also underscored the advantages reported by those who have made the shift.
The research indicated that 80% of small businesses that invested in new technology believe it has given them a competitive edge, while 79% say it has helped them attract new customers.
It also uncovered historical trends of resistance to technology adoption, with 14% of small business leaders acknowledging they were initially doubtful about establishing an online presence during the internet’s growth in the 1990s.
Likewise, 18% expressed reluctance towards adopting social media a decade later.
Today, digital connectivity is essential for business operations, with 73% of business owners stating they could not function without reliable broadband and mobile services.
BT warns that organizations delaying their transition to digital networks risk missing out on opportunities to implement productivity-enhancing technologies such as AI and augmented reality (AR), which require high-bandwidth, low-latency connections.
Kerry remarks: “Analogue companies making the transition now can benefit from robust digital connectivity that will help sustain their business for years to come.
“We’re assisting customers, both small and large, through this transition, ensuring no business is left behind. Whether you’re a tech start-up or a family firm passed down through generations, when it comes to going digital – BT’s got your back.”
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