The scale approach to build tech for SMEs
The technology requirements of SMEs are a lot different from large enterprises, and one needs to understand this first before building for them, according to Manjeet Jindal, Associate Director - Engineering, Tally Solutions.
The one-size-fits-all approach to small and medium enterprises (SMEs) when it comes to the application of technology doesn't work for this diversified segment, with the country home to 5.93 crore registered MSMEs, according to Union Budget 2025 documents. Any technological integration needs to address the unique requirements of SMEs.
Delivering the masterclass on the topic, 'Tech for scale for SMEs', at TechSparks 2025, YourStory's flagship startup-tech event, Manjeet Jindal, Associate Director - Engineering, Tally Solutions, said one should be cognizant of the fact that any technology product focused on SMEs should be simple, flexible, and available at the right price.
Jindal highlighted that building software for SMEs is quite different from building for a large enterprise. The differences are stark in many respects.
Firstly, an SME business owner typically performs multiple tasks like manufacturing, sales, accounting, branding, etc. SMEs are also generally very agile and respond very quickly to any change in the business environment. As Jindal put it, they operate in the chaos of the real world. Lastly, the businesses of SMEs are very diverse.
Jindal said any technology product built for SMEs should be grounded in a few fundamentals. The software should be able to function even without an internet connection.
The Tally Solutions executive also highlighted that the entire technology stack should be built keeping in mind the ease of use for SMEs. Jindal added, “Design the software application in such a manner that it adapts to the way business is run, and don't force the business to adapt to the way your application is built.”
The Tally executive also noted that software for SMEs should be designed for extensibility. This would enable small businesses to configure it and adapt to their needs. He said that if there is a niche requirement, there should be the option for third-party developers to build new applications on the platform.
On AI and its connection with SMEs, Jindal said even this business segment is very keen to adopt this new technology, which will speed up their functions or tasks, but accuracy should be ensured.
He said AI for SMEs has to factor in the elements of accuracy, customisability, and, most importantly, it should come at the right price.
On a closing note, Jindal said there is no need to build layers and layers of software on any tech platform, which leads to complexity. Keeping it simple will lead to scale, he added.
