A new study by HP has found a generational gap in technology adoption among microbusiness owners in Southeast Asia.
The study, which surveyed over 1,200 respondents in Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, and the Philippines, found that while millennials and Gen X are more likely to believe in the importance of technology for business, Gen Z and baby boomers are more skeptical.
Specifically, the study found that 56 percent of millennials and 55 percent of Gen X strongly believe that adopting technology for business is a smart choice for the future.
On the other hand, 69 percent of baby boomers and 57 percent of Gen Z see no clear benefit or return from investing in technology.
In the Philippines, almost 60 percent of Gen Z and 71 percent of baby boomers are skeptical of investing in technology for their businesses.
Only 36 percent of Gen Z and 22 percent of Gen X in the Philippines have a strong belief that technology is one of the key solutions to mitigating business challenges.
The study also found that over 70 percent of all microbusinesses fear the complexity and security of new emerging technologies.
“HP recognizes the vital importance of thriving micro businesses to the growth of the Philippine economy. Microbusiness owners want to beat the competition, grow customers and revenue, be more efficient with time and money, so technology cannot be complex and intimidating. Technology simply has to work, be seamless, secure, and today it must also be sustainable,” said Christian Reyes, managing director of HP Philippines.
“HP is committed to building technology that is smart where it matters most and builds trust while empowering businesses of all generations and sizes to thrive in the emerging digital economy with confidence and ease,” he aded.
Despite their skepticism, microbusinesses in the region are still using technology to run their businesses. The study found that 85 percent of microbusinesses in the region use smartphones and tablets, and 59 percent also use printers.
In the Philippines, microbusinesses seek a printer that prioritizes multi-function capabilities (36 percent), speed (39 percent), and a user-friendly interface (41 percent). HP Smart Tank is an example of a simple, no-fuss technology that helps businesses overcome fear uncertainty, and doubt.