The COVID-19 pandemic has driven digital transformation of micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in India, as these businesses are now adopting technology for business continuity and growth. In the crucial part of Indian economy, these 6.8 million businesses contribute to about 30% of the country’s gross domestic product. Therefore, the prudence with which MSMEs manage themselves in a post pandemic environment becomes critical.

The COVID-19 Lockdown: Business Owner's Sentiments Study by Tally Solutions encapsulates how micro, small and medium businesses embraced technology and handled business operations to come out resilient and ensure business stability. The study highlights that 82% of small businesses are optimistic about the outlook of business continuity with current cash flow getting better, allowing 66% of them to pay salaries on time after Unlock 3.0.

Business Outcomes through IT Adoption

Digital adoption is essential for businesses to leverage opportunities and accelerate business. Business owners have understood the importance of having a good IT Infrastructure, which is resonating in the study findings. 94% of business owners adopted technology that has benefited them extensively in their operations. The number of businesses with IT infrastructure has doubled since the beginning of the lockdown until the recent Unlock 3.0. Moreover, the number of businesses not operating post lockdown has significantly reduced to only 5% as opposed to 38% not operating during lockdown.

Gaining confidence of the workforce

MSMEs employ about 110 million people across the country but the lockdown saw a surge in reverse migration affecting small businesses that were left with a limited workforce. However, technology adoption enabled businesses to manage their operations as usual with 44% of the employees available to work during the lockdown, which increased to 66% as the lockdown was relaxed. In addition, these owners put their workforce first, as 57% of owners ensured salaries were paid on time even during the lockdown, which scaled up to 66% after the lockdown relaxation.

Digital adoption is essential for businesses to leverage opportunities and accelerate business. While MSMEs continue to work towards reaching normalcy, to bounce back stronger they must adopt the right technology tools and business management solutions. This will lead to streamlined operations, enabling remote work capabilities, optimizing expenses, and better cash and inventory management – all resulting in business sustenance and growth.

Tally Solutions’ Covid-19 Lockdown: Business Owner's Sentiments Study analyses how businesses handled their operations during the primary COVID 19 lockdown as well as post Unlock 1.0 time periods and how they managed business operations encompassing employee retention policies, utilisation of IT infrastructure, cash flow management, and more.

“Despite being one of the most adversely impacted sectors, the MSMEs have shown immense resilience and dynamism to overcome this situation through innovation and adaptability. Not only have these businesses ensured sustenance but also shown great moral character by supporting their employees during this time. Their unwavering spirit is an example for us all to follow in the times of adversity,” said Joyce Ray, Head- India Business, Tally Solutions.