It's not just nonprofits who are struggling with technology - as I was writing yesterday. The South West of England Regional Development Agency has just published research that shows businesses aren't doing too well either:
It appears on the surface that the region is embracing the digital age. Sixty five per cent of the region's companies use ICT - fifty seven per cent with a broadband internet connection. However, the new research highlights that although the region's businesses are adopting new technologies they are not adapting their practices to get the greatest benefit from it. Business benefits of ICT can be seen in increased efficiency, reduced costs and simplified process for companies. However, most organisations in South West England have no clear direction of how to develop their practices to optimise these resources. A staggering eighty nine per cent of companies have no strategic overview of how to use and develop their ICT. And this is matched by eighty six per cent of companies who have no dedicated ICT budget.
The Agency uses the findings to promote its ConnectingSW programme to encourage small and medium-sized businesses to realise the benefits of using broadband and ICT. In particular the programme is promoting business growth through better use of ICT; skills and e-learning; flexible working and E-government.
Via xPRESS Digest:
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