Queensland businesses can and must do better in the digital space.
This was the key message of Professor Michael Blumenstein when he addressed a Friends of Griffith Business School luncheon on the Gold Coast on Friday.
Using a series of local examples, Professor Blumenstein explained how digital and disruptive technologies are transforming business on the Gold Coast.
The Head of Griffith’s School of Information and Communication Technology also covered the revolution of mobile applications and the emerging area of big data science and its influence on digital marketing.
The presentation, titled ‘Digital futures: Implications and possibilities for business’, is the second in the Friends of Griffith Business School series which aims to strengthen links between the Gold Coast’s business community and the expert staff and state-of-the-art resources at the university.
Professor Blumenstein highlighted recent statistics that show Queensland businesses are not keeping pace with digital progress.
“Almost half of the businesses that took part in a digital-readiness survey recently did not have mobile-friendly websites, and only about 10% had invested in mobile phone apps,” he said.
“This is a major mistake given the extensive use of mobile devices by the community at large. Mobile applications and websites are the windows to a business and should be open at all times.
“Businesses are not keeping up and need to understand the value of being digital-ready and of using commercial-quality apps.
“It is crucial that managers, owners and directors be ready and willing to invest in digital technology.”
Professor Blumenstein outlined what is missing from the local business jigsaw, the solutions on offer, and the potential benefits for businesses partnering with ICT leaders.
Business leaders on the Gold Coast also had the opportunity to share their ideas and thoughts with Griffith Business School research and academic staff at Friday’s event.