The idea of a low-tech business is somewhat romanticised in the modern world. A business that operates simply, that has a physical location and deals with paperwork as actual pieces of paper; it sounds like such a wonderful idea.
Modern business is undoubtedly rather confusing. If you’re not a particularly tech-savvy person, the idea of conducting business in the modern marketplace may seem downright scary. There’s so much to learn, from understanding a variety of abbreviations (SEO, SERPs…) to adopting pieces of technology that seem straight out of a sci-fi movie (smart speakers, contactless payments…). As a result of this confusion, you may have wondered if it’s possible for you to run a business in the modern world by keeping things as low-tech as possible.
The answer? No. Here’s why.
#1 – Tech has been embraced
Despite a plethora of films telling stories about how bad tech is and how it will bring about the destruction of the human face, technology has been adopted and incorporated into everyday life at a frankly staggering speed. There’s no doubt that the adoption of tech has been so well-accepted, trying to function without it is nigh-on impossible for your potential customers.
#2 – Choosing to go website-free for a business is limiting your potential
Sure, running a website for your business can seem complicated, but the simple fact is that a business website isn’t a nice thing to have— it’s an absolute necessity for modern businesses. If you only choose to operate on a local basis, you’re already dramatically reducing the potential pool of customers and clients.
#3 – “Traditional” businesses are failing
Traditional, low-tech, offline businesses are failing at a rapid rate. This is especially true of businesses that have not adapted to the changing technological times. If you try to set up a “traditional” business with a low-tech, website-free, device-free focus, then you’re essentially starting from what you already know to be a losing position.
#4 – Tech makes life easier
The simple crux of the matter is that technology makes running a business easier. You’re able to automate processes you’d previously have had to complete by hand; you can hire staff from all over the world; you can target advertising directly to customers who are most likely to be interested. Why complicate matters by avoiding tech?
So what can you do?
Given the simple truth that low-tech businesses are doomed to failure in the modern business marketplace, and you’re not a tech-savvy person, then you’re going to need to make up for this potential issue. Thankfully, this is relatively easy to do: the internet is bursting at the seams with business guides and introductions to tech. If there’s something you can’t wrap your head around, then you can outsource it: use an SEO agency to optimise your website, or try Managed IT services for the nuts-and-bolts of your technological requirements. The help is there, so don’t be afraid to use it.
If you’re willing to learn and make the most of the outsourcing help, there’s no reason why you can’t run a business in the modern marketplace— it just can’t be a low-tech business if you want to ensure your business is a success.