Digital Transformation for Business Growth: Why SMBs Need It Now
As organisations integrate digital technologies into every facet of their operations, they fundamentally change how they deliver value to customers and streamline internal processes. This transformation encompasses a wide range of technologies — from cloud computing and artificial intelligence to data analytics — that not only enhance efficiency but also empower decision-making.
The Power of Automation for SMBs
Automation plays a critical role in this shift by allowing businesses to optimise repetitive tasks, reduce human error and free up valuable time for strategic work. But what is automation? According to IBM, automation involves the use of technology to execute tasks that would typically require human intervention1. Automation can range from simple, rule-based processes to more complex systems using AI to adapt and improve over time.
For small and medium-sized businesses, adopting automation as part of digital transformation efforts can help to improve responsiveness to market changes, improve customer experiences and uncover new revenue streams. According to a report by McKinsey, businesses that prioritise digital initiatives can achieve up to 30% higher productivity and operational efficiency compared to their less digitally advanced peers2. In this article, we will explore what is digital transformation, why is it essential for business growth and how it can position organisations for long-term success in an increasingly digital world.
Why is Digital Transformation Important?
A study has shown that 75% of small and medium-sized businesses agree that digital technology is reshaping how they operate, from streamlining processes to enhancing customer interactions. Moreover, nearly half (48%) of SMBs are actively planning to transform their businesses to thrive in a digital future3.
By embracing digital tools like cloud computing, artificial intelligence (AI) and data analytics, businesses can improve efficiency, foster innovation and adapt more quickly to market changes. For SMBs, these changes can make a significant difference by reducing operational costs and improving scalability—key factors for sustainable growth in a competitive landscape. This shift is critical for long-term growth and resilience, enabling businesses to keep pace with the rapid evolution of customer expectations and industry trends.
1. Meeting Customer Expectations Amid Rising Costs
One of the key challenges for SMBs is rising operational costs4, which make it increasingly difficult to meet growing customer expectations and compete with larger enterprises. How can SMBs create exceptional customer experiences without overstretching their budgets? This is where digital transformation comes in. By leveraging cost-efficient technologies, SMBs can deliver seamless and personalised customer interactions across various platforms — whether online, in-store or through mobile apps. This approach helps them remain competitive and responsive to customer needs.
For instance, research shows that 35% of business executives claim that digital transformation helps them to better meet customer expectations5. For SMBs, this can translate into using omnichannel communication strategies to engage with customers across email, SMS, social media and live chat. These tools allow businesses to deliver consistent and relevant messages at every stage of their journey without significantly increasing overhead.
Moreover, these technologies can enhance workplace efficiency by enabling teams to manage customer interactions more effectively. This ensures better customer engagement but also improved resource utilisation, helping SMBs maximise value while controlling costs. By fostering customer loyalty and encouraging repeat business, SMBs can build stronger relationships with their audiences — a crucial factor for growth in an uncertain market environment.
2. Addressing Operational Inefficiency and Delays for SMBs
Beyond meeting customer expectations, SMBs also face challenges in remaining agile and adapting quickly to market shifts and customer demands6. Digital transformation empowers SMBs to address these pain points by enabling faster response times and greater flexibility. By implementing workflow and process automation solutions, businesses can streamline operations, enabling faster decision-making and a more proactive approach to challenges7.
Tools such as digital workflow automation and real-time analytics also reduce the need for manual labour, helping companies allocate resources more effectively and achieve higher operational efficiency. With process automation solutions in place, employees can focus on strategic tasks, increasing overall productivity.
Tip: Embracing automation doesn’t have to mean a complete overhaul. Businesses can begin with smaller, high-impact areas like customer support or inventory management, gradually scaling up as they see the benefits.
3. SMBs Cannot Compete Without Data-Driven Insights
Today, data is king but many SMBs still struggle to stay competitive in a data-driven economy8. Digital transformation enables SMBs to keep up by leveraging data analytics tools that provide invaluable insights into customer behaviours and preferences. Businesses can then use this information to make data-driven decisions and optimise their operations. For SMBs, tapping into these insights is essential for staying ahead of market trends. For instance, companies that leverage data analytics are better equipped to align their decisions with market demands. Research indicates that data-driven organisations are 23 times more likely to acquire customers and 6 times more likely to retain them9.
Overcoming Barriers with FUJIFILM Business Innovation
While digital transformation may seem focused on adopting the latest technologies, it is ultimately about enhancing efficiency and positioning businesses for growth. By adopting tools that streamline workflows, automate routine processes and enable better resource allocation, SMBs can unlock operational efficiency.
FUJIFILM IWpro platform is a prime example of technology that supports digital transformation by addressing barriers specific to SMBs. This all-in-one secure platform solution enables organisations to streamline document management, automate workflows and access critical data remotely, which can be particularly valuable for SMBs with limited IT resources. By simplifying processes that would otherwise be time-consuming, FUJIFILM IWpro empowers businesses to focus on innovation and growth rather than administrative tasks. With remote access capabilities and a user-friendly interface, it provides an ideal solution for SMBs with limited IT resources seeking to digitise their operations efficiently.
Embracing Digital Transformation for Lasting Success
Digital transformation is more than a passing trend — it is now essential for small and medium-sized businesses that want to grow sustainably. By leveraging powerful tools like FUJIFILM IWpro, businesses can streamline workflows, improve efficiency, and gain a competitive edge. As digital transformation continues to evolve, businesses that embrace these changes can future proof their operations and capitalise on workplace transformation trends. Now is the time to learn how to transform your business and unlock new growth opportunities.
Is your business ready to embrace the future? Discover how FUJIFILM IWpro can help connect and streamline multiple business processes to support your business growth. Learn more about our digital transformation solutions today!
References:
1 https://www.ibm.com/topics/automation
3 https://www.smb-gr.com/blogs-laurie-mccabe/smb-digital-transformation-why-when-where-and-how/
5 https://www.ptc.com/en/technologies/plm/digital-transformation-report
7 https://gleematic.com/7-examples-of-automated-decision-making-processes-you-can-implement/
8 https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/8-common-data-challenges-faced-small-medium-sized-impacts-dhindsa/