In order to capture the current needs of SMEs in Liechtenstein, digihub.li conducted more than 40 stakeholder interviews between November 2023 and January 2024, which resulted in around 850 content-related impulses. The SME segment (<250 employees) was analyzed, with a focus on the construction, IT, manufacturing and services sectors. The overall view shows that most SMEs feel pressure and overload and are looking for ways out of the hamster wheel. Wanted ared digitally supported solutions for the working world of the future. SMEs are hoping that the use of artificial intelligence in data analysis and to increase productivity will make things easier.increase in productivity. Combining innovation and sustainability and increasing visibility in the process - this opens up great opportunities for SMEs and Liechtenstein as a whole.

SMEs see a need for action in four areas

The needs analysis of SMEs revealed four key areas of action, which are explained in more detail below:

1. needs

Empowerment and the promotion of personal responsibility are seen as essential for sustainable change in the economy. Society is suffering from speed, which means that everyone is preoccupied with themselves and it is becoming increasingly difficult to communicate the reasons behind the changes.

2. skills

SMEs are pushing to find new ways to free themselves from the hamster wheel of daily stress. They need digital solutions to work more effectively and increase productivity. This need is in line with the desire for better training in digital basics and artificial intelligence, which are seen as levers.

3. organization

A critical examination of the business models shows that companies focus heavily on monetization without questioning the actual need. The question: "Do we really need it?" is at the heart of this discussion. Combining sustainability with innovation, for example in the field of artificial intelligence, is seen as a success factor in order to remain attractive as a high-wage location in the long term.

4. culture

SMEs want to work with public administration on an equal footing so that they can actively participate in processes. Working together on guidelines, for example for public tenders, can be a way of extending sustainability and innovation into the public sector.

Population wants self-determination and digital skills

In addition to SMEs, digihub.li has also evaluated the needs of the Liechtenstein population.

An online survey with almost 370 participants revealed that respect, honesty and enjoyment are key values for the population. At the same time, there is a high willingness to learn personal skills in the areas of communication, stress management and international exchange. The desire to bring about personal change, particularly in family, work and friendships, is remarkable, while the environment, culture and politics are perceived as areas that can be influenced less.