Manufacturing SMEs lack digital knowledge and skills, study says
Survey suggests dearth of digital knowledge could impact business growth.
SMEs in the manufacturing sector risk growth if they fail to embrace digitalisation, a study has found.
A survey carried out by manufacturing consultant GAIN LINE, UK, quizzed 1,000 senior managers/directors across the rail, life sciences, energy, construction and manufacturing sectors.
It found that 57% of leaders in the manufacturing sector lack confidence with technology, with more than half lacking the skills needed to move from paper to digital services.
When asked what other barriers existed, respondents also cited resistance from leadership (47%) and financial constraints (26%).
“Many SME manufacturing businesses see potential benefits of going digital,” says Jonathan Ward, Comercial Director at GAIN LINE, “however, lack of digital skills and resistance from leadership can make it difficult to put plans in motion. Going digital can save firms huge figures in both time and money."
