What are the major trends that medium enterprises will need to pay attention to in 2011? M Institute co-founder Paul Druckman checks out the nearest crystal ball.
Right at the outset, let me explain that I’m not an economist or a futurologist; simply, a businessman who has many connections to those with intellect and foresight!
There are all sorts of trends that consultants and the economists are predicting for 2011, including further developments in cloud computing, GDP growth and more general strategic and technology advancements. Here's my pick of the challenges and opportunities that I believe will be poignant in the forthcoming year.
UK Budget cuts – this will be significant for British business as the public sector has been a growing market as a customer over the last decade. I believe we’ll see many companies refocus on the private sector.
A changing workplace – I’m not just referring to remote working here. Workplaces are changing. This is being catalysed by the arrival of disruptive technologies, particularly social networking tools. In fact, ‘social business’ is the future - it’s about collaboration, connectedness and lateral management. We’re moving away from people being told what to do, towards self-service, and seeking out the 'best' workplace environments. The related trend here is that people are moving on to working for themselves. Here’s to the rise and success of the micro business.
Sustainability – a recognition of the twin issues of finite resources and climate change will receive increased emphasis in business circles. This will be based around the potential of increasing revenues and managing costs. For example, GE in the USA is basing its strategy on a low carbon future.
Cloud computing and technology advances – that word ‘connected’ raises its head here as well. That’s what technology is all about. Cloud computing is becoming more popular in specific areas of the business. Just this month, leading software companies such as Sage and Access Accounts are introducing their own on-line solutions - the cloud is not just about start-ups.
This blog article is based on an interview by Access Accounts for its newsletter.
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