Commitment to Technology Must Extend Beyond High-Tech Companies

The government’s commitment to high-tech businesses should be welcomed, but we also need to promote technology across all sectors if Britain is to maintain its competitive edge.

David Cameron’s unveiling of a £200 million package for new technology and innovation centres is a welcome boost to research and development, but ministers must not overlook the benefits that technology can offer to small businesses.

While high-tech companies have a big role to play in helping the UK to grow its way out of recession, businesses in all sectors can weather the storm by adopting technology-based solutions that will increase efficiency and productivity. We also need to make sure that employees have the skills and knowledge to make effective use of new technology.

Governments tend to focus on the big headline-grabbing stories, while ignoring the benefits technology can offer to SMEs that employ the majority of Britain’s workforce. Solutions like online sales, automated manufacturing procedures, customer relationship management and effective stock control can positively influence the bottom line.

The solutions are out there and advice is on offer for businesses that need it, but we also must ensure that the right training is available to support the investment. t’s about moving beyond the standard awareness of Windows and Microsoft Office taught by most college courses, embracing the skills required by new information technology, or ‘i-Skills’ as they are becoming known.

New web-based platforms allow businesses to research, manage, create and publish information online. It’s simple to do, but it’s also a new skills-set for many SMEs in this region. If we want to capitalise on these opportunities, we need to persuade businesses to invest in them, and that requires central government support.

Many North East businesses make effective use of the technology available to them, with an ever-increasing number actually trading online, but support is still needed to help senior managers plan effective investment in technology and training, especially as financial assistance is reduced.

It’s all about getting the right balance. Businesses can invest, but if the right support isn’t out there and the government isn’t showing commitment, there’s a risk small businesses could be left behind as technology continues to develop.