The crisis as a catalyst: inflation, energy crisis and digitalisation - challenges and opportunities of the new normality
Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) today face a variety of challenges that can affect their growth and stability. From rising energy prices and inflation to supply shortages and cybercrime, these factors can have a negative impact on business success.
This blog article takes a closer look at current challenges facing SMEs and how digital solutions can help overcome these hurdles.
Contents
1 | Inflation and cost management
Ongoing inflation can lead to rising operating costs, which is a particular challenge for SMEs. By using digital tools such as cloud computing, artificial intelligence and machine learning, companies can optimise their operations, reduce costs and make processes more efficient. By accessing real-time data and automating routine tasks, SMEs can make better use of their resources and increase their competitiveness.
2 | Improved planning and decision-making
Accurate planning and strategic decision-making are essential to minimise the impact of rising costs on SMEs. With the help of a cloud-based ERP system, companies receive comprehensive data and analyses to understand their cost structures and make informed decisions. By accurately recording expenditure, budgets and resources, companies can identify bottlenecks and take appropriate measures to reduce costs. Advanced analytical tools from Microsoft enable accurate forecasting of cost trends and thus support effective budget planning.
3 | Long-term protection against cyberattacks
Phishing emails, ransomware, data leaks and identity theft are just a few examples of the threats that companies are exposed to today. Operating digital solutions in the cloud not only offers SMEs operational efficiency, but also increased data security compared to on-premises solutions. By using an ERP system in the cloud, such as Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central, SMEs can centralise their business processes and control access to sensitive data. Data is stored in highly secure data centres and regularly backed up to ensure the integrity and confidentiality of company information.
4 | Detect supply chain disruptions at an early stage
Supply chain disruptions can have a significant impact on the production and sales processes of SMEs. Bottlenecks in raw materials, delays in the delivery of goods or interruptions in transport can lead to production downtime, customer dissatisfaction and financial losses. It is therefore very important to take appropriate measures to minimise these risks. Transparent communication within the supply chain is crucial in order to quickly recognise and rectify disruptions. Digital solutions from Microsoft enable a transparent exchange of data between SMEs and their suppliers to identify bottlenecks and find alternative solutions. By providing up-to-the-second information on the status of deliveries and current demand, SMEs can recognise bottlenecks at an early stage and proactively counteract them.
Conclusion
Through the targeted use of digital and cloud-based solutions, SMEs can strengthen their security, optimise their supply chains and respond flexibly to challenges
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