Over the last decade, digitalization has become a buzzword among business owners. This is understandable given that the average person spends over seven hours of screen time a day, and those who say they shop for products and services online exceed two billion worldwide. This is also why our article on the basic steps to becoming a successful business owner also recommends building a strong online presence. This includes starting up your own website, using social media, and adopting strategies like SEO.
That said, taking on new tech is easier said than done for business persons and companies, especially if they’re working on a smaller scale. As such, in order to not just survive but also thrive in this competitive and often overwhelming digital age, it helps to observe and learn from how some industries are embracing new technologies. Here are a few things you should keep in mind.
Embracing tech doesn’t equate to sacrificing human connection
A common fear that many people have is that bringing on more technology compromises the human element of businesses. This is especially true among those who are looking into AI-backed technologies. However, while most tech, and AI, in particular, can help streamline procedures by taking over certain tasks, they are not meant to be human replacements. If anything, they are human supporters, given that they can help workers free up more time for more sensitive matters. As seen in the robot pet industry, AI algorithms in robotic animals can even help improve human connections. Because these algorithms are based on research into empathy and emotion, the tech they empower can better adapt to the needs of those around them. For humans, this can mean creating a more comfortable and pleasing environment. In the workforce, this can manifest as you and your employees having more time to bond with each other and your loved ones since you won’t be spending too much time on menial projects.
Scaling up your tech doesn’t mean leaving out those who can’t keep up
Another reason why many people feel wary of new tech is because they feel like there is too much to learn. For family or small-scale businesses that have historically worked on legacy enterprises, the thought of transferring all that data can be daunting. Aside from this, studies on new tech among SMEs find that even those who are interested in digitalization are worried that their knowledge gap is too big. In truth, while it’s not easy, it’s not impossible, and everyone can be part of the digital revolution. Consider that the agricultural farming industry has encouraged the adoption of AI-powered agri-tech, even in family-run farms that include farmers who are senior citizens. These are believed to help make farming more sustainable and resilient. So, if farmers over 70 can learn and embrace new tech, there’s really no reason for you not to pick up the necessary skills, either. The key is not to get overwhelmed and to accept that there will be a learning curve.
Look for tech that works for you
Finally, you might find yourself pressured to just settle for any and every new tech that is offered to you. But while many innovations may seem exciting, they may not really be that beneficial to you upon closer inspection. So, rather than forcing yourself to use technology for the sake of digitalization, don’t be afraid to be more discerning and wait for something that suits your particular needs. To illustrate, in the retail industry, they’ve chosen to focus on AI systems that improve garment fit. This is designed to help customers shop for clothes more effectively, thereby reducing the chances of returns. By choosing to target a particular pain point, they’ve better utilized their resources. Similarly, if you wait for something that is more relevant to you, your money, time, and energy are better invested.
This is a guest blog written by Rachel Janeson. Now and again, we have decided to share interesting content that we did not immediately write but is still relevant to you.
Yvonne has a vast coaching experience from executives to teams to ambitious business owners.
Through her personal and business coaching programs she has helped dozens grow their businesses while drastically reducing their working hours.
And when Yvonne is not coaching, you can find her indulging in beach walks, and a sparkly glass of champagne.
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