Donna Edwards, director of the North West adoption program, highlights the hesitation among businesses to commit to digital transformation due to a lack of confidence in technology and digital skills.
Without embracing technology, SMEs risk falling behind. The new white paper, ‘Digital Transformation: A Made Smarter Roadmap for SME Manufacturers’, offers invaluable guidance for a successful digital transition.
Many businesses refrain from embracing digital transformation because they do not feel confident in their technology and digital skills. Donna Edwards stresses that delaying this transformation may result in lost opportunities and wasted resources.
To combat this, the white paper offers strategies and resources that are accessible to all SMEs, helping them to understand and implement necessary changes without feeling overwhelmed.
The Made Smarter Adoption Programme has a proven track record in assisting businesses through its structured, fully funded support. It provides a clear roadmap that includes technology advice, workshops, and leadership programs.
In the North West alone, this program has engaged thousands of manufacturers, contributing significantly to economic growth and job creation in the region.
Case studies from the white paper illustrate the tangible benefits experienced by businesses. AV Metals, for instance, transformed into a data-driven organisation.
Co-managing director Scott Brooks remarks that embracing digital possibilities has been pivotal, stating, ‘Once you take that first step, admit your flaws and grasp the opportunities to fix things, you won’t look back.’
These success stories aim to motivate and guide other SMEs on their digital adoption journey.
The adoption programmes are not limited to the North West; they are expanding into the North East, Yorkshire, Humber, and the Midlands. These regions are already seeing improvements in productivity and job creation.
By 2027, every SME manufacturer in the UK will have access to regional adoption programmes, further accelerating their digital transformation journey.
As the Made Smarter initiative approaches its first decade, the scope of digital transformation is evolving. The focus is shifting from traditional Industry 4.0 concepts to an era where advanced technology and AI-powered robots enhance human work processes.
Edwards emphasises the need for Made Smarter to intensify efforts to reach more SMEs, demonstrating the transformative potential of these technologies.
The white paper not only guides SMEs on digital transformation but also highlights collaborations with partner organisations like Make UK, Innovate UK, and the Centre for People-Led Digitalisation (PLD).
These partnerships provide additional resources and expertise, aiding SMEs in their journey towards digitalisation and decarbonisation.
The white paper offers a comprehensive, actionable guide for SMEs. It provides insight into the benefits of digital adoption and the steps to achieve it.
With specific examples and detailed guidance, the white paper equips SMEs with the necessary tools for digital transformation. The potential for growth and innovation is immense.
As technology continues to evolve, the imperative for SMEs to adopt digital skills and strategies becomes increasingly critical. The white paper ensures they are not left behind in this digital era.