Why NOT digitalizing costs you big time

"Digitalizing? Isn’t that just for the 'big players'? We're just an SME company!"I hear this a lot. And honestly? I think that's nonsense.

In fact, SMEs have a goldmine waiting to be tapped! Let me make it my personal mission for 2025: helping all of the Netherlands go digital.

Not with trendy buzzwords or vague theories, but with practical insights and actionable tips.

Over the next few months, I'll help you make digital transformation practical and accessible. I'll hand you the ingredients and even the recipe. It's up to you to bake something delicious.

Expect a monthly newsletter packed with tips and a brand-new podcast where I grill CIOs, CEOs, CTOs, and digital experts. More on that soon!

But first: why do I want to help Dutch SMEs digitalize?

I see these organizations as the backbone of the Dutch economy. Yet, when talking to SMEs, I often hear that digitalization feels like "it's not for them."
It’s seen as something for corporates with large IT departments.

But from my perspective, SMEs actually have the biggest potential. They can digitalize faster and smarter than large corporates.

Why?

• Less bureaucracy: Short lines, direct influence.
• Closer to the business: You know your processes better than anyone.
• Experts at your fingertips: Specialists right within your own team.

Yet not all SMEs are diving into digital transformation.
Why? Because they often lack knowledge. And strategy. And, honestly, enthusiasm.

And especially that last one, I get it. Buzzwords are flying around constantly. Every quarter there's something new: AI, BI, hyperautomation, Agents, IoT… Chances are you've watched countless webinars, podcasts, and keynote sessions, yet still struggle to take those first steps.

But let’s start at the beginning 👇

Do you really have to digitalize?

No, not every business needs to run a fully automated, AI-packed operation tomorrow. But if you don't digitalize, you’re taking risks. Big risks. Plus, you're missing out on huge opportunities.

Reasons to digitalize you can’t afford to ignore:

🔄 Legacy systems holding you back: Many companies still rely on outdated software or unsupported systems. It works... until it doesn’t. Eventually, integration issues, security vulnerabilities, and inefficient workflows pile up. Switching now is easier than waiting until you have no choice.

👴 Aging workforce and knowledge loss: According to the CBS, half of Dutch 'technicians' are over 50. When Johanna or Willem retires, operations must still continue smoothly. How do you ensure their valuable experience and specific know-how don't leave with them? And what about the increasing labor shortage exacerbated by an aging workforce? Digitalizing processes ensures consistency, documentation, and often fewer man-hours, helping your organization maintain its current service levels.

🤖 Remove the robot from the human: Much work can be smarter. Automating repetitive tasks means fewer mistakes, faster processes, and perhaps most importantly, greater job satisfaction. You can let your people shine where they truly make a difference and free up time for them to learn new skills.

👀 Europe has its eyes on youI recently spoke with Sjoerd Boot from the Ministry of Infrastructure. He explained how Europe is massively investing in SME digitalization to keep pace with Big Tech and reduce dependency. And yes, that includes you as an SME. It might not always feel that way as a smaller organization, but the EU certainly sees it as critical. When the government considers it necessary, you know it’s serious. Want to know more? Check out this insightful blog from Made in Europe.

📈 Increased company valuation: Perhaps not relevant for every company, but many businesses eventually get acquired or merged. Want to appeal to buyers or investors? Then you better have your digital affairs in order. No outdated systems, error-prone processes, or profit losses, just smart, scalable processes.

💰 What truly matters: the euros: Ultimately, every business revolves around what's left at the bottom line. Whether it's about profit, reinvesting, or taking good care of your employees, money matters. Digitalizing can often cut costs, but I encourage you to think bigger. Digitalization can also boost your revenue or even create entirely new business models. I know of a family business that once made wooden crates and pallets, which transformed into a provider of complete warehouse automation systems. Pretty cool, right?

SMEs ready? Time to digitalize!

I'm sure several of these reasons resonate with your business. So, next question: Where do you start?

My advice: Start small. Forget 'go hard or go home.' In my next edition, I'll guide you through a practical use case.

I'd appreciate it if you follow my newsletter, contributing to our mission: Helping all of the Netherlands go digital.

Looking to discuss digital transformation with like-minded peers? Or seeking more content to dive into?Join the exclusive LinkedIn group 'Heel Holland Digitaliseert.'

Until next time!

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