AppDirect asked SMBs about their SaaS usage, and found that 45% of SMBs have most or all of their business software based in the cloud, compared to just 24% in 2017. To overcome migration and maintenance issues, almost 48% of SMBs are turning to outside professionals for help, such as technology advisors—consultants, channel partners and telecom agents—and ISP/telecom services providers, according to the report.
While vendors remain the main source of solutions for 51% of SMBs, technology advisors’ services have increased from 21% in 2017 to 28% today, while 20% of SMBs turn to telecom providers/ISPs to get their technology solutions. SMBs choose to work with advisors mainly because of their knowledge about technology (51%), as well as because of their customer service and support (49%) and a fast and easy buying process (46%).
Thinking about the SMB of the future, I envision exactly this scenario, with all business software in the cloud. Too often I think the analysis is on organizations that are not this, and soon the model will be the majority.
I don’t doubt the long term value of a small provider because of the advice service. I wonder if enough of the service is focused on the knowledge of technology… with the implied business skills, versus a raw technical expertise. Those that have the business chops will outperform.