Meaning ● Strategic Automation Risks in the SMB context denote potential downsides arising from deploying automated systems, potentially threatening business continuity and profitability. Considering automation for SMB growth requires assessing risks associated with cost overruns during the automation process itself, particularly given limited capital budgets.
Scope ● This scope identifies various business risks in process automation within the SMB. Automation introduces operational risks if workflows disrupt current organizational tasks, which is compounded by resistance to new technology deployment. Additionally, the scope considers system integration, data security vulnerabilities, and regulatory compliance challenges when new systems and process are set in motion. These implementation risks can severely diminish SMB operational efficiency and impact client services if unaddressed. The risks, especially those associated with poor project selection, talent gaps, or failure to include a culture of change management can offset initial ROI calculations; therefore, careful planning is key to minimizing financial consequences.
