UAE-based SMEs have begun to realise the value of ICT investments such as lower operating costs, improved human resource efficiency and business effectiveness as well as increased revenue generation in many cases, said an expert.

“The investments in ICT are also of paramount importance to boost an SME’s productivity. A minimal 10 per cent increase in a SME’s productivity can sometimes determine whether the business remains competitive and sustainable,' remarked John Lincoln, vice-president (Marketing) at UAE telecom operator du.

He was the keynote speaker at Dubai Internet City Excellence Series on the ‘Art of ICT Investments for SME’ held in Dubai recently.

A business thought leader, Lincoln is a specialist in this segment with over 20 years’ experience globally and working in telecom and technology start-ups from concept development to market launch to holding senior positions in very large and established companies.

He said additionally, economic and well-planned deployment of ICT was critical to the success of small and medium sized enterprises.

A non-optimal selection of a solution or a provider can have negative consequences for an SME, which can be further compounded due to its limited financial and human resources, he added.

'As most SMEs do not have the necessary in-house ICT expertise to undertake related projects on their own, it is imperative that an SME selects an ICT partner that is reliable, knowledgeable and offers the best value for money,' he noted.

Majed Al Suwaidi, director at Dubai Internet City and Dubai Outsource, pointed out that SMEs today seek to make the right investments in ICT to churn out profits for the long term and increase value in business.

'While the levels of ICT awareness vary, for identifying an optimal solution, it is essential that SMEs consider the total cost of ownership taking into account its specific needs and invest wisely to generate returns for business,' he added.
 
Dharmendra Parmar, general manager, Marketing, FVC attendee at the event and business partner of Dubai Internet City said: “SMEs in the region are more aware on ICT investments and the impact of technology on their business.'

'Today’s session highlighted the relevance of IT in an organisation irrespective of their size of the business. It also pointed out the importance of new age technologies like cloud and on the usability in business,' he noted.

Piero Ricotti, the managing director, Tecnosistemi and president of Italian Industry and Commerce office in UAE said: 'DIC Excellence series focusing on such topics which are of prime importance today adds value to the community and their business partners.'

'SMEs are a growing sector in the region and the country as there is an increasing focus on these companies by major technology companies. These businesses need to be advised on the right usage of technology and its impact on the longevity of their business,' he added.-TradeArabia News Service