SME digitalisation how to make the change a success
While large corporations are pumping millions into digitalisation, Swiss SMEs are facing a seemingly impossible task: mastering the digital transformation with limited resources while remaining competitive. But the good news is that the path to the digital future doesn't have to be rushed or costly. In this practical guide, we show you how you as an SME can successfully shape the digital transformation step by step - pragmatically, cost-consciously and with maximum impact.
The figures are sobering: a study conducted by swissICT in collaboration with Bern University of Applied Sciences shows that two thirds of Swiss companies have an urgent need for digitalisation. Particularly alarming: 26% of companies have massive deficits - and this at a time when digital technologies are demonstrably creating competitive advantages. An analysis by digitalswitzerland emphasises the urgency: companies that oversleep the digital transformation are not only losing out on efficiency - they are also missing out on the opportunity to reduce their operating costs through smart technologies and make an important contribution to sustainability at the same time. The reasons for procrastination are understandable - limited time, lack of expertise or limited financial resources - but the price of waiting becomes higher with each passing day.
Source: Bern University of Applied Sciences, Digital Excellence Report
Let's take the example of Simon Meier, owner of a long-established production company for special tools in the canton of Aargau. His story is typical of many Swiss SMEs: for decades, everything worked perfectly with paper-based processes and traditional communication channels. But suddenly there were increasing signs of the crisis: young talent turned down job interviews, regular customers migrated to digital competitors and process costs ate into margins.
(Simon Meier is representative of numerous SMEs facing similar challenges. The example was derived from real customer projects of MTF Solutions and anonymised).
The 4 keys to successful digitalisation
Many SMEs ask themselves: What makes the difference between successful and failed digitization? Our experience shows: There are four central factors that determine success or failure.
- Step-by-step implementation instead of complete transformation
Successful companies digitize specifically where the greatest benefit arises - and then proceed step by step.
- Focus on quick wins with high ROI
Smart SMEs identify projects that quickly deliver measurable results and pay for themselves within a few months.
- Clear digitization strategy
Top performers first develop a tailor-made strategy and then choose the right tools - not the other way around.
- Professional support from experienced IT partners
The most successful projects arise from the interaction of entrepreneurial know-how and technological expertise.
Digital technologies: The key to sustainable growth
‘You don't have to digitise everything - but the right things.’ This realisation by a successful Swiss SME owner sums it up perfectly. An assessment that is impressively confirmed by recent studies: In 65% of companies that specifically digitalise their core processes, productivity increases significantly. Particularly impressive: by automating repetitive tasks alone, employees gain up to 25% of their working time back - time that can be used for value-adding activities. A recent Adobe study underlines this trend: 85% of the SMEs surveyed reported significant increases in productivity thanks to smart digitalisation. The message is clear: it is not blanket digitisation, but strategically smart digitisation that creates real competitive advantages.
Three levers for your business success
"Digital change is changing our lives in all essential areas. Companies must face this change and take the right measures," says Andre Fudickar from MTF Solutions AG. Andre Fudickar's statement underlines how crucial it is for companies to actively shape digital change. But how can these challenges be mastered in concrete terms? Three central aspects show how digitization can become a real competitive advantage.
- Smart process automation: More time for what's important Imagine your employees could concentrate fully on what really moves your company forward: creative solutions, personal customer support and strategic projects. This is exactly what modern collaboration tools such as Microsoft Teams and intelligently used ERP systems make possible. They take over the time-consuming routine tasks - from creating offers to invoicing - fully automatically and error-free.
- Lightning-fast market adaptation: Recognize today what will be in demand tomorrow In the modern business world, hours often decide whether a project is awarded. Digitalized companies have the edge here: They react up to three times faster to market changes and customer inquiries. For example: While others are still creating offers manually, you already have the order in the bag thanks to digital processes.
- Continuous innovation: Leading the way through technology Digitalization is your springboard for innovation - and thus the key to the future viability of your company. A current analysis of the Swiss market shows that while digitized SMEs develop new business models and exploit market opportunities more quickly, others are still struggling with outdated structures. But the good news is that unlike large corporations, you don't have to go all out right away. Successful digitization begins with clever, targeted steps where they bring the greatest benefit. It is often the small digital innovations in everyday life that provide the decisive competitive advantage.
Digital step by step: example of a successful transformation
Back to Simon Meier and his company. After a thorough analysis, he decided on a gradual digitalization with the support of MTF Solutions. The transformation process included:
- Digital order processing: Introduction of a cloud-based CRM system that centrally manages offers, orders and customer support
- Modern workplace solutions: Implementation of Microsoft 365 for efficient team collaboration
- Cybersecurity: Development of a robust IT security architecture to protect sensitive customer data
The result? After 12 months, the company recorded:
- 30% less administration effort
- 25% increase in customer acquisition
- 35% reduction in operating costs
- Significantly increased employee satisfaction
With MTF safely into the digital future
Digital transformation is a journey - and as with any important journey, it depends on having the right companion. As a Swiss IT company with over 25 years of experience, we not only know the technological challenges, but also the specific needs of SMEs. Our approach: We combine Swiss quality standards with pragmatic, immediately usable solutions.
Our service promise for your success:
- Strategic IT consulting
The MTF Consulting Team supports you in the strategic orientation of your IT and ensures that your IT environment is optimally tailored to your company goals. We offer you exactly the IT management expertise you need - flexible and needs-based.
» More information
- Future-proof IT infrastructure
We develop customized, secure IT environments that grow with your company. Our solutions not only optimize your business processes, but also create the basis for long-term growth.
» More information
- Modern, flexible workplaces
Your employees should be productive - whether in the office, on the road or working from home. Our intelligent workspace solutions make this possible and demonstrably increase employee satisfaction.
» More information
- Holistic cybersecurity
In the digital world, security is not an option, but a requirement. Our comprehensive security concept protects your valuable company data and secures your digital future.
» More information
- Professional business cloud for SMEs
With our MTF Business Cloud, we offer professional cloud computing for SMEs in all industries. Our multi-cloud approach supports your company in its digital transformation and enables a sustainable strategy for your IT infrastructure. There are no limits, regardless of whether you want to use local installations, private cloud or public cloud services.
» More information
MTF: Your partner for sustainable transformation
Digitalisation is no longer an option - it is the decisive factor for sustainable corporate success. The good news is that the path to the digital future doesn't have to be rushed or costly. Recent studies show that SMEs that make targeted investments in digital solutions significantly increase their efficiency - every second company reports significant increases in productivity.
The key to success? An experienced partner and a strategy that fits your company perfectly.
Discover your digital potential: arrange a non-binding strategy meeting with our experts.
FAQs
- Why is digitalization so important for SMEs in Switzerland?
Digitalization helps SMEs to remain competitive, reduce costs and work more efficiently. Companies that use digital technologies in a targeted manner significantly increase their productivity and innovative strength.
- What challenges do Swiss SMEs face with digitalization?
Common challenges include limited financial resources, a lack of digital know-how and a lack of time resources. However, a step-by-step, strategic approach can effectively overcome these hurdles.
- What first steps should SMEs take for digital transformation?
SMEs should develop a digitization strategy, identify processes with high automation potential and start with projects that offer a quick return on investment (ROI).
- Which technologies are particularly relevant for SMEs?
The most important technologies include cloud solutions, collaboration tools such as Microsoft 365 and IT security solutions to secure digital processes.
- How can SMEs involve their employees in the digitization process?
Employees should be involved early on in be included in the change, trained and familiarized with digital tools. Change management and clear communication are crucial for success.
- How can MTF Solutions support Swiss SMEs in digitization?
MTF Solutions offers customized IT solutions for SMEs - from IT infrastructure and cloud services to cybersecurity and IT consulting. The focus is on practical, sustainable and cost-conscious solutions.