Now more than ever, businesses that survive the COVID-19 pandemic should strive to be digital-first, equipping themselves with technology that can bolster collaboration, information-sharing and customer engagement.

The pandemic has highlighted the economic, health and social risks of the traditional ways of doing business, and no sector has escaped unscathed. Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) are especially vulnerable to business disruption. It’s crucial that South African SMEs can access the ICT communication tools to ensure business continuity, as they contribute significantly to employment, provide income for millions of people, and form a key part of our diverse economy.

Over the past few years, as Vodacom Business, we’ve refocused our efforts by shifting from being ‘just a telco’ to providing businesses with end-to-end technology solutions. As a trusted digital partner to businesses, we’ve always believed that with the right technology and digital processes, South African businesses will be more competitive, resilient and capable of not only surviving, but thriving, despite external challenges.

In adapting to this new normal, Vodacom Business has committed to accelerating digital adoption in support of companies’ business unusual. ‘SMEs are a critical component of our economy,’says William Mzimba, Chief Officer for Vodacom Business. ‘They employ around 10.8 million people and contribute 20% to our gross domestic product (GDP). It’s imperative that we provide them with the tools to remain productive and overcome the challenges they face today. The combination of our offerings delivers the benefits of agility, productivity and flexibility.’

To help with this process, Vodacom Business has launched SMART SME Solutions. These solutions give companies the edge to securely connect, communicate, collaborate and above all, remain productive – whether it’s by using cloud-based telephony services that join up your mobile and fixed landline so you’re always connected and reachable; employing a mobile financial management software that fits into your pocket and allows you to invoice and quote your customers quickly from anywhere; or transforming your team meetings to accommodate smaller group collaboration sessions and voice breakouts.

When used together, SMART SME Solutions enable employees to work from virtually anywhere and on almost any device without compromising the quality of company and customer information and engagement. These services will enable SMEs with dispersed workforces to operate as efficiently as their larger rivals by creating access to tools and services that have traditionally only been available to larger enterprises.

Vodacom Business SMART SME products and solutions free up your time, so you can spend it investing in your customers, improving your business plan, training, networking and keeping mentally fit during these challenging times.

Vodacom Business’ SMART SME Solutions

Vodacom Business’ SMART SME Solutions which work great on the Vodacom Network and can be set up for optimal use by Vodacom Business experts include:

It’s vital to find the best strategic business partner to take you forward, especially if your business has limited experience in a specific area, such as technology. Vodacom Business’ innovative digital solutions take into account best-in-class digital platforms, tools, applications and services as well as Vodacom’s world-class network to ensure a successful digital transformation journey.