Lara Fox, Managing Director of Objective, shares her insights with SME Today on how automation has shifted from being the preserve of large corporations to becoming an essential growth tool for small and medium-sized businesses. Once seen as the domain of big companies with the budgets and resources to implement complex systems, automation is now both accessible and indispensable for SMEs looking to scale and compete.

A recent PwC report highlights that by the end of 2025, almost half of business tasks will be automated. This

staggering statistic presents both a challenge and an opportunity for SMEs. The challenge lies in adapting quickly enough to keep pace with larger competitors. The opportunity comes from the ability to streamline operations, reduce costs, and free up teams to focus on what really matters: growth, innovation, and customer relationships.

Why automation matters for SMEs

Automation goes beyond replacing manual tasks with software. It’s about designing systems that work seamlessly, cutting down inefficiencies, and creating the foundation for scalable growth. Whether it’s processing invoices, tracking inventory, or managing customer interactions, automated systems reduce the reliance on human input for repetitive tasks, minimising errors while saving hours of valuable time.

For many SMEs, the benefits are twofold. Automation reduces costs and errors, which directly impacts the bottom line. Furthermore, it enhances customer service and employee satisfaction by allowing people to spend less time on admin and more time on creative, strategic, or relationship-focused work. In competitive markets, this can be the difference between a business standing still and one that pushes forward to explore new opportunities.

Off-the-shelf vs bespoke solutions

When it comes to implementing automation, SMEs need to consider whether to use ready-made software or invest in something that has been custom-built for the business.

Off-the-shelf platforms such as QuickBooks for accounting, Trello for project management, or Xero for payroll offer affordable, easy-to-use solutions. They are a quick and reliable way for smaller firms with straightforward needs to get started. They also help business owners get comfortable with automation without the need for a heavy upfront investment.

However, as SMEs grow, their processes often become too complex for one-size-fits-all tools. Workarounds and bolt-ons creep in, leaving teams juggling multiple systems that don’t integrate smoothly. This can create frustration and inefficiency, which is the very problem automation is meant to solve. That’s where bespoke solutions can add real value. A Deloitte study found that businesses implementing custom-built systems saw a 20–30% increase in efficiency within the first year, highlighting why the benefits of customisation can’t be overlooked.

Case study: Springbridge

One company that has seen these benefits first-hand is Springbridge, a landscape supply specialist. Like many SMEs, they previously relied on multiple, disconnected systems that made operations disjointed at times. This not only slowed down processes but also created room for inefficiencies and errors.

By working with Objective to create a bespoke platform, Springbridge was able to centralise its operations into a streamlined system. Manual tasks were reduced, processing times cut, and collaboration between teams improved. The business also gained real-time visibility across its operations, meaning managers could make faster, data-driven decisions.

The impact has gone far beyond efficiency. Customer service levels have improved and turnaround times shortened. By integrating everything from quoting to delivery into a single platform, Springbridge became more agile, scalable, and setting a stronger foundation for future expansion.

Hidden benefits: accuracy and morale

An important advantage of automation is the reduction in human error. Manual processes such as data entry or stock checks are not only time-consuming but also prone to mistakes. Automating them improves accuracy, which is especially valuable in industries where compliance, traceability, and reporting are critical.

Automation also plays a role in employee satisfaction. By removing repetitive, low-value tasks, SMEs allow staff to focus on more meaningful work such as creative problem-solving, building relationships, or driving strategy. This not only increases productivity but also boosts morale, leading to stronger retention and a healthier company culture. For SMEs competing with larger firms for talent, this can be a real differentiator.

Building a future-ready business

Automation is not about pressing a button and watching profits roll in. It requires a clear understanding of your business processes, an honest assessment of where bottlenecks exist, and putting in the right systems to address them.

For some SMEs this may mean gradually adopting off-the-shelf tools to tackle specific pain points. For others, particularly those on a rapid growth trajectory, a bespoke solution may offer the agility needed to scale without adding headcount. Increasingly, SMEs are also exploring integrations and AI models that can provide smarter insights and faster decision-making.

Lara Fox, Managing Director of Objective