New Delhi, Jun 26 (KNN) A comprehensive study by CyberMedia Research (CMR) has revealed that approximately two-thirds of India’s micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) have adopted digital technologies, with many incorporating enterprise tools and artificial intelligence to improve operational efficiency.
However, the research indicates that several challenges continue to impede the pace of digital transformation across the sector.
The nationwide survey, which examined over 400 MSMEs across diverse sectors including manufacturing, education, retail, and information technology services, found significant variation in digital proficiency levels.
According to the findings, 43 percent of MSMEs demonstrated competency in enterprise-level technologies such as Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems and cloud computing platforms, while 23 percent have already integrated advanced technologies including artificial intelligence into their operations.
Despite these encouraging developments, the study identified substantial barriers that continue to limit broader adoption.
The research found that 84 percent of businesses cited a lack of clarity regarding the value and relevance of digital tools as the primary obstacle to adoption.
Data security concerns ranked as the second-most significant barrier, affecting 81 percent of respondents, while 56 percent identified insufficient advanced digital skills as a major impediment to digital transformation.
The complexity of digital technology choices has prompted a significant number of MSMEs to seek external guidance.
The study revealed that 62 percent of surveyed businesses actively pursue digital advisory support through various channels, including MSME-focused online communities, professional forums, and peer networks.
Among digital advisory platforms, Vi Business’ ReadyForNext (RFN) programme emerged as the most recognised MSME-focused advisory service, with 57 percent of surveyed businesses acknowledging its presence in the market.
The platform’s effectiveness was demonstrated by user outcomes, with more than 80 percent of RFN platform users reporting digital fluency across both fundamental and advanced technological tools.
Businesses that engaged with the RFN initiative reported measurable improvements across multiple operational areas.
The study found that 62 percent experienced enhanced business connectivity, 37 percent achieved faster decision-making capabilities through real-time insights, 33 percent reported expansion in market reach or revenue growth, and an additional 33 percent achieved greater operational efficiency.
User satisfaction metrics were equally positive, with 64 percent of MSMEs expressing overall satisfaction with the platform’s services and 65 percent indicating willingness to recommend the platform to other businesses.
Prabhu Ram, Vice President of the Industry Research Group, CMR, commented on the findings, stating that India’s digital transformation is being driven by an expanding base of MSMEs adopting technology to enhance competitiveness and innovation.
Ram acknowledged that while indicators of digital maturity show promise, a substantial segment of businesses continues to face persistent challenges, particularly in areas of awareness, skills development, and cybersecurity.
Ram further noted that initiatives such as ReadyForNext are gaining recognition for their role in facilitating digital transformation journeys, particularly for businesses that lack clarity on how to evaluate or implement emerging technologies.
The research suggests that advisory platforms are becoming increasingly important in bridging the gap between digital potential and practical implementation for India’s MSME sector.
(KNN Bureau)
