Fear of change

The Connected Enterprise report by Sigma Dynamics revealed that outdated attitudes towards technology among facilities management business leaders are at risk of jeopardising future business survival.

It found that 71% of C-suite executives, directors and senior managers are sceptical about the benefits of implementing new business technology; 64% are doubtful that it improves efficiency; and 71% cynical about its ability to improve productivity.

Interestingly, 13% think technology can cause problems if not carefully implemented, while 8% worry that the cost often outweighs the benefits. Another 8% believe traditional ways of operating are more effective.

Colin Crow, Managing Director of Sigma Dynamics, commented: “We can infer that many senior businesspeople in the industry have been burned by previous digital transformation efforts. It is unfortunately quite common for businesses to choose the wrong technologies, or roll them out without enough support for employees, which can be very costly mistakes. Some of these misconceptions are therefore understandable, but, as the twin threats of Brexit and Covid-19 have shown us, the business landscape can change with incredible speed.”

The report found that 71% of those surveyed believe Brexit will affect customers’ demands and expectations over the next five year. However, 40% don’t believe that this will require the adoption of more business technology.

“Organisations must be agile and open-minded… it will soon become almost impossible for businesses to thrive without strategically planned and implemented technological innovations,” said Crow.

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