Tag: Digital

The Essential Digital Products That Every Business Needs

The digital market has become a haven for business opportunities and the perfect place to further develop and enhance your business. And more and more companies are recognizing the infinite potential of the World Wide Web, making competition fierce and the race to stay ahead of everyone else a true challenge. But there are shortcuts or better said, tools that are being widely used to ease jobs by streamlining whole procedures. That way resources are being saved and further invested in their projects that are more opportunistic, opening businesses to new endeavors and a chance for growth. In the text below, we’ll discuss some essential digital products that you, as a business, need to make sure you’re ahead of the curve and well-engaged in this new and changing digital world.

Managing Projects Like a Pro 

Digital tools that help you keep track of deadlines, how much work each employee has made so far, progress, and an overall overview of long-term goals make every project easier than it is or is supposed to be. These tools provide features such as task assignment, deadline tracking, and progress visualization charts, allowing you to really understand the work you’re doing. 

Customer Service

Your business relies on a loyal base of followers who are recurring and love your brand, services, or products you’re offering. By far the best way to keep your customers coming back is not sales and vouchers but rather excellent customer service that offers a chance to stay in touch and meet the requests and demands of your loyal fans. CRM software is an interesting and innovative way of keeping track of your customers, their purchases, statistics, and retention rates. Why does any of this matter? The key to personalized campaigns for your customers is proper data and this software offers endless information on key factors that greatly contribute to boosted sales and a better reputation. Many of these featured brands can be found online and are offered at retail prices to draw more sales and often you’ll find great package deals, making it easier for everyone. Its simple CRM software helps companies manage interactions with current and potential customers, giving a unique insight into the demands and behaviors. It’s a formula for success.

E-Commerce 

Having an e-commerce platform is as normal today as it is to have your phone in your pocket. Platforms that offer an easy way to open an online store and offer your product to a wider audience can only be beneficial in terms of spreading brand awareness, building a reputation, and boosting your sales.

Security 

With cyber attacks being more casual than bank robbers, protecting your data and the data of your clients is a must if you want to act professionally and stay ahead. Cybersecurity software allows you to keep your integrity and the data of your customers and loyal clients, making sure any breaches are handled and detected ahead of time.

It’s almost impossible to imagine today’s work without making sure you’re able to use all these tools to enhance your business and streamline whole procedures while guaranteeing confidence for you and your clients.

 

Understanding the Evolution of Technology Behind Online Gambling: From Basics to Innovation

Online gambling has transformed dramatically, evolving from simple text-based games to immersive platforms powered by cutting-edge technology. As we’ve embraced the digital age, the gambling industry has consistently adapted, blending innovation with entertainment to create experiences that captivate millions worldwide.

From the early days of basic internet casinos to the rise of mobile apps, virtual reality, and blockchain, the technology behind online gambling has pushed boundaries. It’s fascinating to see how advancements have not only improved accessibility but also enhanced security and fairness, reshaping how we engage with these platforms.

Understanding this evolution isn’t just about appreciating the past. It’s about recognizing the trends shaping the future of online gaming. By exploring technological milestones, we can better grasp how far we’ve come and where we’re headed in this ever-evolving digital landscape. For example, insights into today’s top online games reveal how timeless appeal and innovation continue to captivate gaming audiences worldwide.

Understanding The Evolution Of Technology Behind Online Gambling

The technology behind online gambling has significantly transformed, evolving alongside digital advancements. The introduction of internet-based casinos in the 1990s marked the starting point. These casinos relied on basic SSL encryption for security and random number generators for fairness. Early platforms offered limited functionality, focusing on text-heavy interfaces and basic games like poker and slots.

The 2000s brought better graphics and smoother gameplay as Flash technology became a standard. Online payment systems like PayPal and Neteller gained traction, simplifying deposits and withdrawals. This era also saw the rise of multiplayer options, creating competitive gaming environments.

By the 2010s, smartphones revolutionized accessibility. Developers began creating mobile versions of gambling platforms, enabling users to play seamlessly on on-the-go platforms like 500.Casino Real Money Casino has embraced these advancements, offering mobile-friendly interfaces for a smooth user experience. Blockchain started gaining attention, ensuring higher transparency and provable fairness through decentralized ledgers. Virtual reality (VR) emerged, offering immersive experiences like virtual poker rooms and real-world casino simulations.

Artificial intelligence (AI) today shapes personalized gameplay experiences, monitors fraud, and enhances customer support through chatbots. Live casino technology streams high-quality video with real-time dealer interaction for an authentic gambling experience. Online gambling’s technological evolution continues as regulatory frameworks and innovations redefine industry standards.

The Early Days Of Online Gambling

The roots of online gambling date back to the early 1990s, when the rapid expansion of internet access began. Early technological achievements and legislative shifts laid the foundation for this transformative industry.

Key Milestones In Digital Gambling History

The launch of the World Wide Web in 1993 opened unprecedented connectivity, creating fertile ground for online activities. In 1994, the Parliament of Antigua and Barbuda enacted the Free Trade and Processing Zone Act, establishing a legal framework for online gambling services. This year also saw the placement of the first online bet, marking the operational birth of internet-based gambling. Companies like Microgaming began developing the necessary software to support casino games, pushing innovation in early betting platforms.

Role Of Basic Internet Technologies

Emerging internet technologies in the 1990s ensured global accessibility for gambling platforms. The Free Trade and Processing Zone Act permitted companies to service international audiences via user-friendly websites. Safe payment technologies became integral, offering secure transactions for early adopters. Additionally, simple data encryption protocols protected user information, building trust in this nascent digital venture.

The Impact Of Advancing Software And Hardware

Technological evolution continues to redefine online gambling, delivering enhanced experiences and improved functionality. From artificial intelligence to mobile integration, software and hardware advancements are essential drivers of innovation.

Emergence Of RNG (Random Number Generators)

Random number generators revolutionized online gambling by ensuring fairness in gaming outcomes. RNGs generate unpredictable results for slot machines, poker, and other games, replacing physical methods like dice and cards. They built trust and established credibility among players.

Development Of Mobile Gambling

The rise of smartphones and mobile internet transformed the industry. Mobile gambling apps brought convenience, enabling players to access games on the go. Optimized interfaces and cross-platform compatibility allowed providers to reach broader audiences.

Introduction Of High-Quality Graphics And Interfaces

Enhanced graphics and user-friendly interfaces lifted the appeal of online gambling platforms. Modern tools like HTML5 ensure seamless designs and realistic visuals. Immersive features in games now replicate physical casinos, attracting more users globally.

The Role Of Security And Payment Systems

Security and payment systems play a central role in the evolution of online gambling. They ensure user trust and protect sensitive data. Innovations in encryption and payment methods have addressed challenges posed by cyber threats and transaction complexities.

Encryption Technologies And Safe Transfers

Regulated platforms use military-grade encryption, such as 256-bit SSL, to secure user interactions. These technologies, used by banks and governments, encrypt logins, payments, and game histories. Even in a breach, encrypted data remains inaccessible to attackers. Multi-layered security protocols further reinforce these defenses, protecting users from fraud and unauthorized access.

Evolution Of Payment Methods In Online Gambling

Payment methods in online gambling have drastically advanced. Early platforms relied on credit cards and basic bank transfers, often causing delays. Today, digital wallets, cryptocurrencies, and instant banking services provide secure, fast, and anonymous transactions. Blockchain integration supports transparency in deposits and withdrawals, boosting confidence in the fairness of financial processes.

The Shift To Modern Innovations

Online gambling has transformed into an advanced digital space fueled by groundbreaking technological advancements. These innovations have elevated the user experience and redefined how we engage with virtual casinos.

Virtual Reality And Immersive Experiences

Virtual reality is reshaping the gambling landscape by creating lifelike casino environments. Players explore virtual casino floors, interact with others, and engage in games with realistic visuals and sounds. Augmented reality further enhances gameplay by merging digital elements with physical surroundings, delivering unparalleled immersion.

Blockchain And Cryptocurrency Integration

Blockchain enhances transparency in online gambling by securing transactions and ensuring fairness. Cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum simplify deposits and withdrawals, offering anonymity and security. Built on blockchain, smart contracts automate payouts and reduce fraud risks, boosting trust in these platforms.

AI-Powered Personalization

Artificial intelligence refines gameplay by analyzing user preferences to offer tailored recommendations. It also improves customer support with real-time assistance and chatbots. AI bolsters security by detecting fraud patterns and ensuring compliance, providing a seamless and personalized gambling experience.

Challenges And Opportunities For The Future

As online gambling continues to grow, the industry faces challenges and opportunities related to adapting to regulations and leveraging emerging technologies. The industry’s future depends on effectively addressing these areas.

Regulatory Concerns And Adaptation

Online gambling is subject to strict regulations globally, which vary by region and can significantly influence platform operations. Compliance with data protection laws, anti-money laundering practices, and age verification standards ensures the industry’s credibility but requires continuous adaptation. Expanding markets, like the US, demand operators stay updated with shifting local laws to avoid penalties while building trust.

Potential Technological Breakthroughs

Innovations in quantum computing could overhaul encryption standards, boosting security across gambling platforms. Further VR evolution might enhance virtual casino environments by adding multi-sensory immersion, giving gaming a fully interactive feel. Emerging AI models present opportunities for hyper-personalized recommendations, fraud detection, and real-time translations, expanding accessibility and user experiences.

Conclusion

The evolution of technology has undeniably transformed online gambling into a dynamic and innovative industry. As we continue to embrace advancements like virtual reality, blockchain, and artificial intelligence, the possibilities for enhancing user experiences seem endless.

Staying informed about these developments helps us better understand the industry’s trajectory and prepares us for the exciting changes ahead. With innovation driving accessibility, security, and fairness, the future of online gambling holds immense potential for growth and innovation.

Bank of Ireland sees record Christmas digital banking usage

Analysis of Bank of Ireland customer behaviour between 14 and 24 December has shown record Christmas digital banking usage.

On Thursday, 19 December close to 1.6 million digital banking logins were recorded across Bank of Ireland’s iOS and Android mobile apps, as well as through its online banking website. This is higher digital banking usage than any other peak holiday or shopping period including Christmas, the traditionally busy Black Friday sales, and the Easter holiday season. The peak 2024 login figure is an increase of 4% compared to December 2023.

Biometric logins to the mobile banking app have also grown in popularity, up by 45% in December 2024 compared to December 2023. Over 3 million biometric logins were recorded during the month.

The pre-holiday period analysed saw contactless transactions increasing by 2%, with over 1.9 million contactless transactions recorded on 23 December alone, also making this a record-breaking figure for contactless transactions by Bank of Ireland customers. And, while digital banking and contactless payments increased, the number of ATM transactions fell 12% in December 2024 compared with the same date range (14 – 24 Dec) in 2023.

Ciarán Coyle, Group Chief Operating Officer, Bank of Ireland said: “As demonstrated by these latest figures consumers really value the speed of digital banking, especially during particularly busy holiday and shopping periods. We pair that digital service with telephone and branch options for more complex matters or bigger decisions. Being able to bank from anywhere – home, office, or on the move – is one of the greatest benefits of digital banking and that’s why we are focussed on continuing to invest in and enhance our digital banking services.”

Tech-Enabled Safety: How Digital Solutions are Transforming Injury Prevention in the Workplace

In today’s fast-paced work environment, safety is a top priority. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, there were nearly 3 million non-fatal workplace injuries reported in 2021 alone. These incidents not only affect employees’ health but also impact productivity and increase costs for businesses. With the rise of technology, there is a unique opportunity to enhance workplace safety through innovative digital solutions. This blog explores how tech-enabled safety is revolutionizing injury prevention, showcasing examples of how organizations can leverage these tools to create a safer working environment.

As companies increasingly adopt digital solutions, the landscape of workplace safety is changing dramatically. Technologies such as wearables, mobile apps, artificial intelligence (AI), and the Internet of Things (IoT) are transforming how businesses monitor and manage safety risks. By integrating these tools into their safety protocols, organizations can proactively address potential hazards, leading to a significant reduction in workplace injuries. This blog will delve into the current state of workplace safety, examine digital solutions, highlight successful case studies, and discuss the benefits and challenges of implementing these technologies.

The Current State of Workplace Safety

According to a law firm, workplace injuries remain a pressing concern across various industries, from construction to healthcare. According to the National Safety Council, work-related injuries cost employers over $170 billion annually in direct and indirect costs. Common injuries include slips, trips, falls, and overexertion, which can lead to long-term disabilities and significant downtime. Traditional safety measures, while important, often fall short in addressing the dynamic nature of modern workplaces.

One major challenge in traditional safety practices is their reactive approach. Many organizations only address safety concerns after incidents occur, rather than preventing them proactively. This mindset can lead to a culture of complacency, where employees feel safe until an accident happens. To combat these issues, businesses need to adopt innovative strategies that leverage technology to enhance safety measures and create a more proactive safety culture.

Overview of Digital Solutions in Workplace Safety

Tech-enabled safety refers to the integration of digital solutions into workplace safety practices. These technologies provide real-time data, enabling organizations to identify and mitigate risks before they escalate into accidents. Various digital tools can enhance safety measures, including wearable technology, mobile applications, AI-driven analytics, and IoT devices.

Wearable technology, such as smart helmets and fitness trackers, allows employers to monitor employee health and safety in real time. These devices can track vital signs, fatigue levels, and exposure to hazardous conditions, providing invaluable insights for both employees and management. Mobile safety applications also play a crucial role by offering features like incident reporting, safety checklists, and training resources, making it easier for employees to stay informed and engaged in safety practices.

Case Studies of Successful Implementation

Many organizations have successfully implemented tech-enabled safety solutions, showcasing the transformative impact of these innovations. For example, a leading construction company adopted wearable devices that monitor workers’ movements and environmental conditions. By analyzing this data, the company could identify potential hazards and implement preventive measures, resulting in a 30% reduction in workplace injuries within the first year.

Another notable case involves a manufacturing firm that integrated AI-driven risk assessment tools into its safety protocols. These tools analyze historical incident data and employee behavior to predict potential safety risks. By leveraging this information, the company was able to tailor its training programs and improve safety measures, ultimately reducing incidents by 25% in just six months. These success stories demonstrate the effectiveness of tech-enabled safety solutions in creating safer workplaces and fostering a culture of continuous improvement.

Benefits of Tech-Enabled Safety Solutions

The benefits of tech-enabled safety solutions extend beyond just injury reduction; they also contribute to a healthier workplace culture and improved employee morale. One significant advantage is enhanced risk detection. Digital solutions allow organizations to identify potential hazards before they escalate into serious incidents. By providing real-time data, companies can respond quickly to emerging threats, ensuring the safety of their employees.

Additionally, real-time monitoring through wearable devices and IoT technologies fosters a proactive safety culture. Employees feel more empowered to report hazards and participate in safety initiatives when they see that their organization is committed to their well-being. This increased engagement can lead to a positive shift in workplace culture, where safety becomes a shared responsibility among all team members. Furthermore, data-driven decision-making enables organizations to refine their safety protocols continually, ensuring that they remain effective and relevant in an ever-evolving work environment.

Challenges and Considerations

Despite the numerous benefits of implementing tech-enabled safety solutions, organizations must also consider potential challenges. One significant barrier is the initial cost of adoption. Investing in new technologies can be expensive, particularly for small businesses with limited budgets. However, it is crucial to view this investment as a long-term strategy that can yield substantial returns in terms of reduced injuries and lower insurance costs.

Training employees to effectively use new technologies is another critical consideration. Ensuring that staff members are comfortable with digital tools requires ongoing training and support. Organizations must prioritize this aspect to maximize the potential of tech-enabled safety solutions. Additionally, companies should address concerns regarding data privacy and security, as collecting and storing employee data raises important ethical considerations. Establishing clear policies and practices around data management can help alleviate these concerns and build trust among employees.

Conclusion

In conclusion, tech-enabled safety is transforming how organizations approach injury prevention in the workplace. By leveraging digital solutions such as wearables, mobile applications, and AI-driven analytics, businesses can create safer environments and foster a culture of proactive safety. While challenges such as implementation costs and employee training must be addressed, the benefits of adopting these technologies far outweigh the drawbacks.

As we move forward in an increasingly digital world, it is essential for organizations to embrace innovation and prioritize employee safety. By investing in tech-enabled solutions, businesses not only protect their workforce but also enhance productivity and morale. The future of workplace safety lies in the integration of technology, paving the way for a safer, more efficient, and healthier work environment.

 

Pendulum Summit announces partnership with Viatel Technology Group

Pendulum Summit 2025 has announced its partnership with Viatel Technology Group (Viatel). Viatel is Ireland’s leading business comms and digital services provider.

Pendulum, the world’s number one business and leadership summit will take place on 8 and 9 January at The Convention Centre, Dublin. Pendulum brings world renowned speakers and household names like Andre Agassi, Sugar Ray Leonard, and Jimmy Carr together under one roof over two electrifying days.

“We are absolutely thrilled to have Viatel Technology Group on board as our partner for this year” Frankie Sheahan, Pendulum Founder said.

“Viatel is changing the game when it comes to digital services and cybersecurity. They continue to grow at scale in an ever-evolving sector, making them a dynamic and inspirational partner for our attendees,” Frankie continued.

Pendulum will celebrate its eleventh year of success this January, with over 6,000 attendees expected to attend across the two days.

Chief Commercial Officer (CCO) at Viatel, Damien McCann said: “It is a source of immense pride for Viatel Technology Group to be a part of this summit. We are always looking to nurture the talent, expertise, and opportunity that Irish organisations bring to the table. Pendulum is unmatched when it comes to impactful knowledge sharing that empowers leaders from around the world.”

“The leadership team at Viatel Technology Group and our customers cannot wait for Pendulum. We believe this is an exceptional event.” James Finglas, General Manager of Digital Services at Viatel, shared.

“Viatel will host the CEO Dinner at Pendulum on the evening of 8 January. That promises to be a fantastic evening of networking, innovation and collaboration, focusing on fostering new business relationships.” James added. “We look forward to welcoming familiar faces and new friends on the night.”

To learn more about Pendulum, visit pendulumsummit.com.

To be in with a chance to win two highly prized tickets to Pendulum 2025 check out Viatel Technology Group’s LinkedIn page.

How Technology is Transforming the Vacation Rental Experience for Guests and Hosts

The short term vacation rental industry is undergoing a tremendous transformation driven by digital technologies. It’s essential for vacation rental businesses to keep up with modern trends to enhance guests’ experiences. Technology can streamline several vacation rental processes, from booking to check-out. Hosts can maintain a competitive edge by leveraging the best vacation rental solutions. Embracing new technologies can help improve client satisfaction, operational efficiency, and financial performance. The shift toward technology is also influenced by evolving consumer expectations, personalization, and convenience. Succeeding in the competitive vacation rental industry requires hosts to invest in innovative technologies to revolutionize their property management.

4 Ways Technology is Transforming the Vacation Rental Industry

Vacation rental business owners must strive to create unforgettable experiences, enhance comfort, and add a touch of elegance to make their properties stand out. Here are some key ways technology is transforming the vacation rental experience for guests and hosts:

1. Smart Locks

Smart locks are among the top technologies impacting the vacation rental industry today. Their primary benefit is that they improve guest security and safeguard your rental property. Globally, the smart lock industry is worth over $2.7 billion, and it’s expected to grow even further. Implementing smart locks will make it easier to transform guests’ check-in and check-out. They eliminate the inconvenience of conventional key exchanges and overcome the nightmare of missing keys. With smart locks, you can provide each guest with a unique digital key and remotely manage property access, offering both convenience and security.

2. Virtual Assistants

Virtual assistants, such as Google Assistant and Amazon’s Alexa, can help guests find assistance at any point in time during their stay. These technologies can recommend exciting destinations near your vacation rental and provide useful information about your property. Overall, setting up virtual assistants for your Airbnb home can add a layer of convenience and transform the guest experience by offering quick and seamless access to information and services. Providing your guests with digital assistants can also help elevate their experience from good to excellent.

3. Vacation Rental Software

Another smart way to modernize your short term rental business with technology is to use iGMS’s powerful vacation rental software to optimize your revenue generation. This award-winning application can provide technology and market-specific data for your Airbnb property, enabling you to earn more lucrative bookings and enhance occupancy rates. Running your vacation rental business on the go with a mobile app can reduce your stress, as you can minimize your workload through automation. Automated messaging is a key advantage of using the best vacation rental software to transform your Airbnb property management.

4. Contactless Solutions

The global Coronavirus pandemic played a crucial role in fast-tracking the adoption of contactless solutions in the vacation rental industry. Hosts can minimize physical interactions and boost guest safety by utilizing contactless payment technology and digital check-ins. You can revolutionize your property management if you use QR codes and mobile apps to reduce paper printouts.

Adopting new technologies is vital for staying competitive in this rapidly-evolving rental property industry. The shift towards smart homes demonstrates the importance of using technology to improve guests’ and hosts’ experiences. Many guests cherish luxury, convenience, security, and personalized experiences. Therefore consider integrating the right innovations to ensure that your vacation rental home stays appealing.

 

Zyler launches 2-in-1 Digital Dressing Room

Zyler is a pioneering Virtual Try-On (VTO) company revolutionising the fashion eCommerce experience have launched launched a new solution which offers their flagship VTO product, the Digital Dressing Room, alongside Prime AI’s proven Size Recommendation (SR) tool. This will be an industry game-changer because it offers consumers both emotional, via the VTO, and functional, via the SR, ways to make the right purchase decision.

Fashion eCommerce return rates are scarily high, ranging from 25%, to as much as 60%. (Coresight Research 2023, Statista 2024). This is a significant pain point for everyone involved – from the customer, to brands, to the planet. From our internal research, one third of consumers say that the main reason they want to use VTO is so they don’t need to buy multiple items and sizes and then return unwanted products.

Powered by a proprietary AI and machine vision methodology, Zyler’s VTO product is both intuitive and easy to use. A seductive ‘Try it on’ button is easily implemented onto a brand’s website on its product description or listing page. And for consumers, they need only enter three measurements and upload one profile image before instantly seeing themselves in an entire brand’s collection. More than 75% of consumers describe the tool as ‘fun’ and ‘helpful’ which explains why, on average, they try on more than 60 products each time they visit a brand website.

Zyler developed this integrated solution because when they asked fashion customers what frustrated them most about online shopping, more than half complained about the difficulty of choosing the right size.

“We are excited to unveil Zyler’s new 2-in-1 solution, which combines our Virtual Try-On with Prime AI’s Size Recommendation technology,” said Alexander Berend, CEO of Zyler. “It resolves two of the biggest challenges in fashion eCommerce — finding the right fit and making online shopping engaging and personalized. By allowing customers to try on apparel and receive accurate size recommendations virtually, we are enhancing the shopping process, helping to reduce returns and increase customer satisfaction. This launch marks a major step forward in how consumers interact with fashion online, making shopping more fun, immersive, and efficient.”

The size recommendation feature is powered by Prime AI, who were chosen as a partner due to their proven track record and the accuracy of their technology. “We are thrilled to partner with Zyler to accelerate the modernisation of the fashion retail industry using Artificial Intelligence technologies that evolve alongside the demands of online shoppers and retailers”, said Martynas Ragelis, Co-Founding Partner of Prime AI. “By providing sizing recommendations powered by our proprietary neural networks, we will help Zyler’s clients serve their customers better and enhance the overall shopping experience.”

The intelligent tool benefits both brands and consumers. Brands report boosted engagement and conversion rates of up to 18% and returns can be reduced by up to 26%. Also, Statista (2024) reports that less than 15% of European fashion consumers have experienced VTO, which means adding it as a service could deliver considerable competitive advantage.

For consumers, Zyler’s software offers a convenient, immersive and personalised shopping experience. 90% of users say that being able to try on many products instantly is of most value to them. Therefore it is the perfect tool for product discovery as it gives consumers a reason to return again and again to a brand’s website.

An open demo of the 2-in-1 tool can be experienced on Zyler’s site here.

New LeanBPI report highlights appetite for digital transformation among small businesses

 LeanBPI, the Irish digital growth consultancy for SMEs and microenterprises, today announces the launch of a new report aimed at supporting the essential digital transformation of small businesses in Ireland. The report, “Exploring Technology Readiness of Irish Small Businesses”, was launched in the presence of Minister of State for Digital Transformation Dara Calleary T.D. It found a strong appetite amongst this cohort for digital transformation while also identifying challenges to its adoption.

Conducted in partnership with the LEO Network, LeanBPI surveyed owner-managers of microenterprises and small businesses across the country to determine their digital fitness level and identify their technology readiness profile, ranging from Avoiders to Explorers. This profile is then used to prescribe the best course of action in driving digital adoption for that business.

According to CSO data, there are nearly 350,000 businesses* of this size in Ireland, yet they risk being left behind as they often lack the in-house skills and budgets required for digital transformation. The report identified the need for tailored strategies to support them at various stages of readiness, focusing on customised training, promoting a culture of innovation to meet specific needs, and addressing barriers to technology adoption.

Highlighting the potential benefits of adoption, 87% of those surveyed said the digital technology that they used significantly enhanced their productivity. However, the need for support to maximise these benefits was clear as just 60% said they were satisfied with the digital tools they were currently using. Showing respondents’ desire to move with the times, nearly two-thirds (63%) cited relationships with customers, employers and peers as the main reason for adopting digital technology.

The report recognised the role of existing Government supports for driving digital transformation in small businesses. These include the Digital for Business initiative, as well as the Grow Digital vouchers, which provide grants of up to €5,000 for software subscriptions, training and configuration. Expanding on these, it recommended an adaptive policy framework to annually assess the effectiveness of current policies, as well as targeted data collection to inform future policies and tailored interventions that address sector-specific needs.

Co-written by LeanBPI managing director John O’Shanahan and Professor Anuragini Shirish, Institute Mines-Télécom Business School, France, the report was launched at Breaffy House Hotel, Co. Mayo by Minister of State for Digital Transformation Dara Calleary, TD, and John Magee, Chairperson, Local Enterprise Office (LEO) Network.

Commenting on the research, Minister Dara Calleary said, “Small businesses and microenterprises are of huge significance to the Irish business sector. As Minister of State for Digital Transformation, it is very encouraging to see the enthusiasm that these organisations have for adopting digital tools, driven by Government supports. Knowing that through them, even businesses with only a handful of employees see digital transformation projects as realistic goals gives us confidence that the sector is ready to embrace the future.”   

John Magee, Chairperson, LEO Network, “LEOs are working daily with small businesses to support their digital journey, which enhances their productivity and competitiveness, builds resilience and drives innovation. This report highlights that there is a genuine appetite among small businesses for digital transformation and emphasises the value of our Digital for Business and Grow Digital supports. While small businesses face constant challenges, there is relevant and practical support available from their Local Enterprise Office”.

John O’Shanahan, managing director, LeanBPI, commented, “What we see in this sector is a strong desire to transition into the digital world and seize the opportunities it brings. By collaborating strategically with all stakeholders and building on existing supports, we can help Irish entrepreneurs realise their businesses’ full potential. Together, we aim to make a meaningful impact at the local level, fostering innovation, resilience, and lasting benefits for communities while positioning Ireland as a global leader in small business digitalisation.”

TELUS Digital and Ringmahon Rangers Partner up to Promote Local Sports

For the second year, TELUS Digital has announced their sponsorship of the Ringmahon Rangers AFC, U14s/15s girls team. TELUS Digital has partnered with the football club in the Southside of Cork City, in an effort to support young women who are choosing to pursue sport.

Commenting on the community sponsorship, Miriam Manning, Director of Human Resources at TELUS Digital said: “Ringmahon Rangers FC is right on our doorstep in Cork. We are so proud to sponsor a team here in our community in Mahon. The team are absolute rays of sunshine and their love of the game is clear for all to see. We’re proud to encourage their continued participation, particularly in the early years of their sporting life.”

Ringmahon Rangers AFC was founded in 1951 and is based in the Southside of Cork City. The club offers training for a range of ages from 4 years old to seniors.