IT firm cautions SMBs choosing to go online

Qual IT is calling for small and medium sized businesses to approach the ‘digital pivot’ with care, following pressure from consumers and employees for a move ‘online’ in the wake of Covid-19.

“Because of changes to working and consumer behaviour following lockdowns, organisations are having to quickly onboard and integrate systems, platforms, and products that enable remote working and online business transacting,” says Shane Hewson (pictured left), co-founder and director of New Zealand information technology and quality assurance company, Qual IT.

“The Covid-19 lockdown has changed the way many businesses operate, leading some smaller companies to quickly onboard technology they never thought they would need to keep operating.

“For many small businesses, just making it through the year will be a financial challenge, let alone having to spend large amounts on technology to operate in the ‘new normal’. Making the wrong decision could be the difference between survival, or not,” says Shane.

“Our advice to companies is not to knee jerk to the mounting pressure. Work out exactly what you need from your technology before making any large IT investments,” says Jon McPhee (pictured right), co-founder and director with Shane, of Qual IT.

“We live in a world where IT is no longer a separate function, but has become fundamental to a business – and now, post-Covid even more than before – it actually determines, and drives how that business operates. 

“With uncertainty about the future and mounting financial pressure on small businesses, it is critical that decisions about technology completely align with your strategy, are well informed and calculated.” 

“From our perspective, you want to do it once, and do it right. And if you know from the get-go where the risks are, then you are less likely to get it wrong,” says Shane.