The Technology Gap and Small Business – Competing Globally

With the advancement in technology, small businesses must be willing to engage and compete in the global marketplace. Globalization offers various new market opportunities that were not available to a small business just a few years ago.

However, small businesses face a common challenge in this global environment. How to compete profitably without having significant upfront capital investments.

Unfortunately, many small businesses are not willing to dedicate the time or money needed to upgrade their technology infrastructure. That's where the technology gap exists — with small businesses relinquishing the role of technology innovation to larger companies.

However, there are ways in which a small business can foster technological innovation without having to spend heavily on capital. Below are three ways in which a small business can encourage technology growth and close their internal technology gaps.

Support Technology Development

Technological innovation must first start with a change in mindset.

One simple way to begin making technology development a priority is to establish technology working groups.

These groups can brainstorm practical solutions for technology innovations. Establish groups for each unique infrastructure section — software, hardware, support.

One problem with this approach is that small businesses may lack the in-house expertise needed to establish the groups. This is where it's beneficial to call in consultants or send workers to training.

The object is to invest in outside help or training so that the groups eventually become self sufficient.

Support Workforce Development

As a small business, you must consider workforce needs in conjunction with technology development. There's nothing more frustrating than having the technology but not having the expertise to make the technology work.

Many small businesses make the mistake of forcing new software and hardware on workers thinking that change can be forced.

Instead, owners should involve employees in the process. Frontline employees are savvy to technology gaps. They may not be able to find a solution but they certainly know when something is lacking.
Support Incremental Change

Create a technological vision that you can work towards. It's easy to get wrapped in a "total" solution when small, incremental changes may be the answer.

Incremental changes benefits your business and you workers. If employees sense that you are committed to the business as well as their welfare, they're more likely to support you in the long run.

Introduce new systems and processes at a steady but comfortable pace. Let employees experience and learn what they need. After a few iterations, you may solve most of your technology problems — creating happy employees in the process.

 

Written by: Frank J Klein - CIO

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