As business leaders shift their focus from short-term recovery to long-term stability, new Deltek research reveals that confidence among UK SMEs is being tested by operational and technological pressures. The findings show that 73% of UK SMEs are extremely concerned about coping with sustainable growth, while 47% of financial leaders cite managing that growth as their top challenge over the next three years. In addition, 70% of firms worry about being unable to automate processes that need it, and 81% fear competitors are implementing new technologies faster than they can.   

In response to these challenges, Deltek has developed its Growth Formula, a new framework designed to help small and mid-sized firms overcome these barriers and scale smarter. Centred on five key principles, the formula distils insights from Deltek’s latest Growth Blueprint whitepaper into a practical model for sustainable success. The framework helps firms focus on:   

1. Clarity – building visibility into business performance and project progress, so leaders can make informed decisions with confidence
2. Control – strengthening operational discipline through better management of resources, costs and workflows
3. Cash – enhancing financial resilience with stronger forecasting and smarter cash flow management
4. Clients – prioritising the right opportunities to drive profitability, not just volume
5. Connection – integrating people, processes and technology to improve efficiency and collaboration across the business

“The Growth Formula brings together the priorities every growing firm needs to master,” says Neil Davidson, Group VP of Professional Services Sector at Deltek. “Our research shows that while small and mid-sized firms are optimistic, it’s imperative they are equipped with the right tools and guidance to thrive in a future where adoption of AI is a competitive necessity. By combining clarity, control and connection across their business, they can strengthen confidence and achieve sustainable growth with optimal productivity.”  

"Having everything connected in one system has completely changed how we work," says Jon Anderson, Director at Cameron + Ross. "We can access the latest project information instantly and make decisions with far more confidence. The visibility and efficiency we’ve gained with Deltek have helped us deliver a more professional level of service as we continue to grow."   

The Growth Formula forms part of Deltek’s new Growth Blueprint whitepaper. The report provides practical guidance for UK small and mid-sized firms looking to overcome operational challenges, strengthen business confidence and build sustainable growth strategies for 2026.

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