According to Gartner's 2023 CEO survey, environmental concerns have made it into the top 10 priorities for the first time, with 64% of CEOs acknowledging the growth potential in combining digitalisation efforts, like AI adoption, with environmental sustainability.

Sustainability remains a key focus for SMEs across various sectors, and the rise of next-generation computing tools such as generative AI (GenAI) has been instrumental in enhancing workplace efficiency without significantly impacting environmental footprints. However, harnessing these tools for sustainable growth poses challenges for business leaders, especially in integrating AI effectively and discerning where to begin.

Mark Appleton, Chief Customer Officer at ALSO Cloud UK, emphasises the importance for IT leaders to strike a balance between adopting modern AI tools and advancing sustainability initiatives. He points out that MSP partnerships can offer a solution, relieving IT leaders from the pressure of adopting every new technology and instead providing them with customised solutions that meet their specific needs.

“Generative AI developments are just one of many steps in the journey to cloud seen by the modern business landscape. Whilst the cloud transition has been an eventuality for many UK businesses, the advantages reported by small business enterprises using AI technology have proven that this will soon become a crucial part of the modern workplace.

“But while it has already been proven that the technology helps the workforce save time and cut down on mistakes, the top obstacles for its integration have been understanding how to use AI solutions effectively and pinpointing which ones will create the most growth for SMEs on an individual level. Guidance is needed, especially for smaller businesses trying not to be left behind by their larger competitors.”

Appleton views MSPs as key players in assisting SMEs with their transition to AI and GenAI solutions. He believes MSPs have the unique position to understand the individual needs of their SME customers and support them with appropriate infrastructure.

“As AI enables us to work smarter and greener, we expect to see more innovations shaping the future of work and sustainability.

“AI-driven tools such as Microsoft Copilot add to sustainability efforts, as teams work more efficiently with reduced energy consumption. Infrastructure and sustainability tie in together; without the proper infrastructure, it can disrupt business continuity, so MSPs have a role in ensuring that tools that provide sustainability support are also integrated in a way that users can access and quickly get to grips with.

“Onboarding is a crucial part of MSPs liaising with customers, so as sustainability becomes even more of a driving factor for IT leaders and CIOs alike, MSP onboarding packages should reflect this. But as with every business journey, this begins with the first step. Finding the best approach to facilitate business functions is key to long-term success for SMEs, and MSPs have a critical role in aiding with this guidance and support.”