Optus will launch an online tool next week to assist small businesses to assess their level of digital readiness, and offer tips for bettering their use of technology to grow and prosper.
The online self-assessment tool will allow SMBs to take a quick survey to deliver their digital readiness score, which can then be compared across a number of industries.
After completing the survey, respondents will be given a copy of the Optus Digital Ready report, released today, which looks at technology adoption levels amongst SMBs.
The Optus research of 850 SMBs with 50 employees or less found SMBs have very divided opinions on the importance of technology and employing a digital strategy.
Close to 50 percent of SMBs said they know enough about IT to make informed decision, but 43 percent reported finding it hard to keep up with technology developments.
When it comes to employing digital strategies, more than a quarter see no value in having an online presence, and just 48 percent agree that online strategies are absolutely critical or quite important to their business.
According to Optus SMB managing director Rohan Ganeson, in most cases attitudes and technology adoption among SMBs appears to be broadly split.
“Only around half of SMBs value mobile working options and provide staff with access to email on mobile devices, and the picture is the same in the online and digital space with only 50 per cent having a website.”
Cloud technology remains a mystery to many SMBs, with research finding that just 8 percent admit to understanding what cloud solutions bring to a business.
An opportunity to educate
With such a divide in SMB understanding of technology and digital strategy, Optus said it’s recognised an opportunity to educate local SMBs about how to take advantage of these to grow their business.
So, in addition to its online self-assessment tool, Optus will also be holding a seminar series in Sydney (8 November) and Melbourne (9 November). The seminars will cover the Digital Report research findings and emerging digital trends, with presentations from leading industry experts.
SMBs can register at www.optusbusiness.com.au/seminar
