SMEs missing out on benefits of cloud technology
Lack of understanding of benefits or accessibility massive barrier to entry
London, Date: Having completed research in the use of cloud technology by SMEs, cloud application dashboard provider the business insights dashboard for SMEs, 9 Spokes has concluded that the majority of UK SMEs are missing out on the potentially huge benefits of cloud-technology due to lack of time and understanding of how these can be accessed.
The use of cloud technology has become increasingly mainstream as individuals and businesses adapt to an environment in which having access to information and services 24/7, on a computer, phone or tablet is normal the new norm. Convenience, efficiency and data protection
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It’s clear that while time is a huge problem, for those SMEs who can take the time to research and implement such solutions, the knock-on benefits are potentially enormous.”
Demonstrating further how SMEs struggle with the use of new technology, 9 Spokes’ research shows that additional concerns re cloud-based apps include compatibility (77%), expense (76&) and poor usability (76%) of these services.
Says Mr Estall, “This is unfortunate as many of the best apps have invested heavily in providing user-friendly, light touch solutions for SMEs that are scalable and flexible in terms of what they offer, as well as their fee structure. For example, accounting packages can start as low as £10 per month while some marketing/ analytic solutions provided their basic services at no cost.”
While many SMEs (71%) turn to advisors to help them navigate these challenges, it’s clear that easily usable, well-priced apps will have an advantage when engaging with SMEs. Importantly, over half (54%) of SME decision makers say that personal experiences influence their choice of business software or apps. As a result, solutions that gain the most SME users are those that tend to have some overlap with personal use – Facebook, Paypal, Twitter, Google and Instagram.
Customer / employment management and accounting / finance apps are some of the most actively used currently by SMEs (80% and 77%
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