According to a survey by Sharp, Belgian SMEs continue to invest in IT despite inflation. However, the same research also shows that SMEs do not always know where to invest.

Many companies today are looking for ways to reduce costs, but this trend has not impacted IT investments. This is the result of a large-scale European survey by Censuswide on behalf of Sharp, in which 570 Belgian SMEs also took part. 47 percent of the companies surveyed state that they want to invest in IT in 2023 and have set aside an average of more than 40,000 euros for this. Only seven percent have to cut corners when it comes to IT.

SME leaders are aware of the changing climate. The rising cost of living (30%) and delivery costs (28%), finding and especially retaining talent (29%) and managing hybrid workplaces (34%) are considered the top challenges, but also raise concerns about IT support especially security.

By investing in IT, SMBs hope to overcome these challenges. It is therefore not surprising that security is high on the agenda: 35 percent state that they want to invest in more security. New hardware is also on the wish list for 35 percent and 33 percent are working on or planning a cloud migration.

Forgot base

Unfortunately, Sharp’s research is not a one-sided cheer. Despite the high willingness, no company invests in the basics of IT. The so-called Cyber ​​Essentials are completely overlooked. This category includes basic cybersecurity elements, including a recovery plan, security configuration, and protection against malware.

“This research shows that SMEs understand the importance of IT, but do not always have the knowledge and capacity in-house. There is often a lack of clear long-term planning, so investments are only made in specific IT projects. As a result, there is a possibility that budgets will be exceeded, targets will not be met or the result will be disappointing,” Peter Hoorn, Managing Director of Sharp Benelux, puts his finger on the painful wound.

Inflation and talent churn slow down projects

The effects of inflation on IT investments are much more visible in large and medium-sized companies, according to a survey by Beltug. 60 percent take action by postponing ongoing projects (34 percent), starting fewer new projects (15 percent) or speeding up implementation if it reduces costs (18 percent). For 82 percent, the lack of IT talent is the reason for projects being postponed.