How does IR 4.0 affect SME?
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What is IR 4.0?
Industry 4.0, also known as the Fourth Industrial Revolution, refers to the current trend of automation and data exchange in manufacturing technologies, including the Internet of Things (IoT), artificial intelligence (AI), and cloud computing. It has the potential to significantly impact small businesses in a number of ways. These technologies are being used to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and increase the flexibility and customization of production processes.
The term “Industry 4.0” was first coined in 2011 by the German government to describe a new era of manufacturing that would be driven by advanced technologies such as the IoT, AI, and cloud computing. These technologies are enabling factories and other manufacturing environments to become more connected and intelligent, and to make use of real-time data to optimize their operations.
The Fourth Industrial Revolution is expected to have significant impacts on the way that businesses operate and the way that products are designed, manufactured, and distributed. It has the potential to revolutionize the manufacturing industry and to create new opportunities for businesses and workers.
Impact of IR 4.0 on SME?
- Automation
- One way that Industry 4.0 could affect small businesses is through the use of IoT and automation technologies, which can improve efficiency and reduce costs. For example, small businesses might use sensors and smart devices to track inventory and monitor production processes, or implement automation systems to handle routine tasks.
- Cloud or Mobile Technology
- Another way that Industry 4.0 could impact small businesses is through the use of cloud computings. These technologies can allow small businesses to access and analyze large amounts of data, which can help them make better informed decisions and improve their operations.
- Data Analytics
- Most of the cloud applications have data analytics capabilities. These allow small businesses to access and analyze large amounts of data, which can help them make better informed decisions and improve their operations. Think of applications like spend analytics, inventory analytics, customers’ analytics, sales analytics.
- Key Challenge to SME
- However, Industry 4.0 also has the potential to disrupt small businesses, particularly those that are not prepared to adapt to new technologies. It is important for small businesses to stay up-to-date on Industry 4.0 developments and consider how they can use these technologies to their advantage. It may also be necessary for small businesses to invest in training and education to ensure that their employees are prepared to work with these new technologies.
Cloud or Mobile Technologies for SME
There are a wide variety of cloud applications that can be suitable for small businesses, depending on the specific needs and goals of the business. Some common types of cloud applications that may be useful for small businesses include:
- Customer relationship management (CRM) software: This type of software helps businesses manage their customer interactions and data, including leads, sales, and customer service.
- Project management software: This software helps businesses plan, track, and collaborate on projects.
- Collaboration and communication tools: These tools, such as Slack or Microsoft Teams, allow employees to communicate and collaborate with each other in real-time, regardless of location.
- Office productivity software: Cloud-based office productivity software, such as Google Workspace or Microsoft 365, allows employees to access and edit documents, spreadsheets, and other business documents from any device with an internet connection.
- Financial management software: This software helps businesses track and manage their financial information, including invoicing, expenses, and accounting.
- Marketing and sales tools: These tools, such as email marketing software or social media management tools, can help businesses reach and engage with their customers and prospects.
It is important for small businesses to carefully consider their needs and goals when selecting cloud applications, and to choose solutions that will be easy to use and integrate with their existing systems and processes.
Some examples you may want to take a look at like Microsoft 365, Monday.com, Proofhub.com,
What about Digital Marketing?
Imagine when you are at Ipoh or Kuching, and you are hungry. You wish to try out something authentic, something tasty, something recommended. Where will you go to? I bet, it is GOOGLE. You will search for “nice food near me” and you will most probably try those recommended restaurants and those with good ratings. Now that is part of digital marketing. Have you established your business digital footprint?
Digital marketing can be particularly useful for small businesses because it allows them to reach and engage with their target audience in a cost-effective and measurable way. Some specific ways that digital marketing can help small businesses include:
- Increasing visibility: Digital marketing can help small businesses get noticed by their target audience, through tactics such as search engine optimization (SEO) and social media marketing.
- Building brand awareness: Digital marketing can help small businesses establish their brand and build a loyal customer base.
- Generating leads and sales: Digital marketing can help small businesses generate leads and sales through tactics such as email marketing and paid advertising.
- Analyzing and optimizing performance: Digital marketing enables small businesses to track and measure the success of their marketing efforts, so they can identify what’s working and what’s not and make adjustments accordingly.
- Connecting with customers: Digital marketing allows small businesses to connect with their customers in real-time through tactics such as social media and live chat, which can help build trust and loyalty.
Overall, digital marketing can be an essential tool for small businesses looking to grow and compete in today’s digital world. It can help small businesses reach and engage with their target audience, generate leads and sales, and build a strong online presence.
Genesis Origo and you
Genesis Origo Professional Development Division can be your partner in upskilling your workforce to better prepare them to adopt and adapt into IR 4.0 environment.
Genesis Origo Professional Services Division can be your solutions to your business needs.
Chat with us, let us know how we can partner with you in your journey to achieving greater success.