Current technological advances encourage various businesses to go global, including micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs). Digital transformation is the key to the progress of a business.

"The key to the progress of MSMEs in the current technological era is to carry out digital transformation. If not, then MSMEs will be left behind," said Jakarta Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Kadin) Chair, Diana Dewi in a press statement, Monday (24/6/2024).

Diana said, currently there are many digital platforms that can be utilised by MSME players. Starting from social media, various kinds of marketing software, to the latest artificial intelligence (AI) technology. ‘We can choose one or use all of them for the progress of our business," she said.

As is known, a survey from Statista in 2019, Indonesia is ranked the 5th most internet user country in the world. That means, the digital potential is huge in this country. In fact, the Covid-19 pandemic has triggered MSME businesses to enter digital spaces to market their various products.

"Now is the time for MSME businesses to enter the digital realm. Utilise technology in order to move upmarket," said Diana.

He mentioned that there are various benefits that can be obtained by MSMEs by carrying out digital transformation, including:

1. Reach a wider range of consumers with more affordable cost potentials
2. Opportunity to increase business income
3. More diverse payment options
4. Ease of recording sales transactions
5. Minimising human error in business operations

To achieve this, Diana continued, there are several steps that can be taken, namely:

1. Optimising the role of social media and market place as business promotion tools
2. Use sales software to assist operations such as data analysis, sales recap, or inventory management.
3. Periodically organise attractive offers at certain moments such as national or religious holidays, twin dates, etc.
4. Maintain interaction with customers by remaining open to any criticism and feedback submitted through digital channels.

"I encourage MSMEs in Indonesia, especially in Jakarta, to make the best use of the various digital technologies available so that they can immediately upgrade and compete in the global arena," said Diana.

So far, Kadin Jakarta has consistently provided digital training to MSME players. "We hope that through continuous trainings, MSMEs can carry out digital transformation so that their businesses can continue to upgrade," concluded Diana Dewi.