Digital transformation risking SME ‘paralysis’ claims Made Smarter
16 Sep 2024
Small to medium enterprises are so overwhelmed by the challenges of digital transformation that many fail to make any commitment, warns the head of north west England’s adoption programme for manufacturers.
Made Smarter director Donna Edwards said many firms lack confidence with technology and the necessary digital skills.
“Ask a hundred SME manufacturing leaders what digital transformation means to them, and you’ll likely get a hundred different answers. But the common view is that it is daunting and confusing,” she commented.
SMEs often lack resources and skills to tackle digital transformation with certainty, added Edwards. In response, many hesitate or become paralysed and risk being left even further behind competitors.Made Smarter cited the problem in the foreward to its new white paper which is seeking to provide a guide for firms seeking help.
The publication Digital Transformation: A Made Smarter Roadmap for SME Manufacturers offers a guide, showcases examples of successful transformation and highlights partner organisations including Make UK, Innovate UK, the Centre for People-Led Digitalisation, InterAct and the Smart Manufacturing Data Hub.
Said Edwards: “The Made Smarter Adoption Programme is a tried and tested approach that offers businesses access to fully funded support so they can improve their understanding of what steps they need to take, to arm them with the tools and strategy to take those steps, and accelerate them towards the multitude of benefits and growth opportunities.”
Since launching in the north west five years ago, thousands of manufacturers have engaged with Made Smarter’s specialised support, from expert, impartial technology advice and digital transformation workshops, to digital leadership programmes, internships and other training opportunities, and match funded technology projects.
Scott Brooks, co-MD of sheet metal manufacturer AV Metals, was one of many who participated in Made Smarter’s digital leadership training.
“We are undergoing sweeping changes to a data-led organisation and a new digital culture,” he said.
“The biggest takeaway from our partnership with Made Smarter is the benefit of embracing the possible. Once you take that first step, admit your flaws and grasp the opportunities to fix things, you won’t look back.”
To download the white paper click here.
