SMEs Go Digital Programme supports small and medium enterprises(SMEs) in the use of digital technology to boost their productivity and build their digital capability.
SINGAPORE - 21 July, 2017: SMEs Go Digital Programme supports small and medium enterprises(SMEs) in the use of digital technology to boost their productivity and build their digital capability. Since the programme rolled out in April this year, over 100 SMEs have adopted 24 pre-approved digital solutions, generating over $2.4 million revenue for the infocomm media (ICM) suppliers.
Announced at the second Industry Briefing held today, IMDA will also progressively raise the standards of the pre-approved digital solutions for SMEs. Pre-approved digital solutions are evaluated on criteria such as functionalities that meet SMEs’ requirements, ease of use, and pricing affordability. In addition, digital capabilities such as cybersecurity, data protection, data analytics, interoperability and compliance to standards will also be gradually included as part of the evaluation criteria.
“To enable our SMEs to continually benefit from innovative digital solutions, we will progressively raise the standards of the pre-approved digital solutions under SMEs Go Digital programme and catalyse the development of digital platforms that provides them the access to game changing technologies such as artificial intelligence and data analytics.” said Mr Tan Kiat How, Chief Executive, IMDA.
IMDA also announced that the Association of Small & Medium Enterprises (ASME) have been awarded as the agency to operate the SME Digital Tech Hub. The new SME Digital Tech Hub is a dedicated hub that will provide specialist digital technology advisory to SMEs with more advanced digital needs, such as data analytics and cybersecurity. The services offered by the SME Digital Tech Hub complement the business advisory service offered at SME Centres. It will be rolled out at the later part of the year.
“The SME Digital Tech Hub is timely as SMEs navigate the rapidly evolving Infocomm Media (ICM) landscape. The specialist advice provided by the Tech Hub will be much welcomed by SMEs as they embark on their digital transformation journey. ASME is pleased to be appointed by IMDA as the operator of the SME Digital Tech Hub. I am hopeful that the SME Digital Tech Hub will be able to guide and help them seize the opportunities in the Digital Economy.” Said Mr Kurt Wee, President of ASME.
SMEs Go Digital programme also aims to uplift whole sectors by working with influential partners to deploy emerging technologies. One such pilot project shared at the Industry Briefing is the implementation of the 3D IoT Platform for Smart Buildings in Orchid hotel. The solution, implemented by Asahi Security Technologies, provides fully integrated facilities and security services that helps building and business operators to improve decision making through 3D visualisation in the command centre. With the ability to retrieve timely and accurate data, it has allowed Orchid hotel to improve manpower deployment to generate greater customer satisfaction and also raises the efficiency of their staff by allowing them to concentrate on their core functions, helping them to improve their service standards.
“Being an SME, we are at a slight disadvantage as compared to big brands out in the market. With this solution we will be able to get more timely and accurate data that will enable us to have better time management and manpower deployment.” said Ms Kayn Chng, Assistant General Manager, Orchid Hotel.
To-date, there are currently 56 pre-approved digital solutions under the SMEs Go Digital programme. SMEs who are keen to adopt the pre-approved digital solutions may approach their nearest SME Centre. ICM suppliers who are interested to participate in the SMEs Go Digital programme or find out the evaluation criteria of the digital solutions for SMEs can visit: www.imda.gov.sg/smesgodigital.
The Industry Briefing attracted over 500 ICM vendors and industry players. As part of IMDA’s sectoral transformation efforts, a Call for Submission (CFS) was also shared at the event for industry to propose commercially-managed Digital Platform(s) that can drive the adoption of game changing technologies such as artificial intelligence, by companies, including SMEs. The CFS will look to explore with industry the feasibility of such a platform and how it could be developed. Submissions will be open until 8 September 2017.
Related Resources
Annex A: Factsheet - SMEs Go Digital (487.44KB)
Annex B: Factsheet - Call for Submission for Digital Platforms (388.33KB)
ISSUED BY THE INFOCOMM MEDIA DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY
About Infocomm Media Development Authority
The Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) will develop a vibrant, world-class infocomm media sector that drives the economy, connects people, bonds communities and powers Singapore's Smart Nation vision. IMDA does this by developing talent, strengthening business capabilities, and enhancing Singapore's ICT and media infrastructure. IMDA also regulates the telecommunications and media sectors to safeguard consumer interests while fostering a pro-business environment. IMDA also enhances Singapore’s data protection regime through the Personal Data Protection Commission. For more news and information, visit www.imda.gov.sg or follow IMDA on Facebook IMDAsg and Twitter @IMDAsg.
About Digital Economy
The Digital Economy has seen tremendous growth over the last few years and is affecting countries regardless of their state of development. In Singapore, we believe that our ability to succeed in the Digital Economy is integral to our Smart Nation Vision. We have always looked at Information and Communications Technology or ICT as a key driver of growth given our limited resources. To harness the full spectrum of benefits from the Digital Economy, we have to ensure that technology brings about sustainable and inclusive growth – where every business, worker and citizen can be transformed, empowered and connected by technology.
For media clarifications, interview and other requests:
Chloe CHOONG (Ms)
Senior Manager, Industry & Marketing Communications, IMDA
DID: (65) 6211 0527
Email: Chloe_Choong@imda.gov.sg
AUNG Thi Ha (Mr)
Assistant Manager, Industry & Marketing Communications, IMDA
DID: (65) 6211 1309
Email: AUNG_Thi_Ha@imda.gov.sg
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