The digital world is becoming a primary channel for small and medium enterprises in North America, turning many traditional offline businesses into thriving online operations. Yet digitization is uneven across sectors. Transportation, construction, and primary industries lag behind, while ICT-driven sectors, real estate, finance, and tourism lead the way.
These insights come from a 2020 digitalization in industry report, validated by experience from a leading hosting provider. The pandemic also accelerated digital adoption, with new customers growing by a third in 2021 compared with 2019, rising from 8,021 to 10,651.
In this context, modern business leaders acknowledge a real and lasting shift toward online presence. With that in mind, ten myths about digitalization in small and medium businesses are explored and debunked:
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I’m already on social media, so why bother with a website?
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Now that the pandemic is easing, is staying online still worth it?
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Does the choice of hosting provider really matter for my site?
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The internet is just for big companies anyway.
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To manage a site, you must know how to code.
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No matter the job, do I really need an online store?
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Cybersecurity is only a concern for public bodies and large firms.
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I don’t need a professional email with my domain; a free account is enough.
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Blogging won’t generate money for my business, so why bother?
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Digitizing is someone else’s problem; help is hard to find.
1. I’m already on social networks; why own a website?
Social platforms can change or vanish. If a network fails or shuts down, your profile could disappear with it, and you might have to start over. The reach on these channels can shift with algorithms, and ads can be costly. A website, by contrast, is owned and controlled, serving as a stable foundation for an online presence and a clear statement of brand identity.
A website offers 100% ownership and control, acting as the reliable base for telling customers who you are and what you do.
2. Now that the pandemic has subsided, is it worth staying online?
Online channels continue to deliver tangible benefits. E-commerce growth is strong, driven by the convenience of shopping from home and a streamlined purchasing experience. The crisis period showed how digitization can transform service sectors and delivery models, including takeout and remote ordering, underscoring the sales opportunities a website can unlock.
3. It doesn’t matter which hosting provider is chosen
Hosting is like wheels for a vehicle. Fast load times and reliable uptime require a provider with robust daily support. A hosting partner that speaks your language and offers responsive help around the clock makes site management smoother. From a technical standpoint, hosting location also matters for SEO; nearby servers tend to improve speed and user experience in local markets.
Leading hosting services emphasize local servers and proactive support to help sites rank well and load quickly for Canadian and U.S. visitors.
4. The Internet was only made for big companies
In truth, a strong value proposition and a clear message can work for any business, without huge budgets or broad channel reach. Small and mid-sized ventures can succeed online by focusing on targeted audiences and a simple, effective digital presence.
Real-world examples show how SMBs can launch e-commerce or service platforms with modest resources, proving that size does not define potential online success.
5. To manage a site, you need to know programming
Today’s tools empower non-developers to build and manage websites. Platforms like WordPress enable everything from a basic site to a full online store without coding. Hosting providers offer plans tailored to different needs, including optimized builds that boost performance and security for SMBs.
For those who want hands-on creation, self-learning resources and community support make it feasible to handle updates, content, and basic maintenance. When professional help is available, development can be faster, but many small businesses still manage well on their own with modern tools.
6. No matter the job, every business needs an online store
The idea that every company must run an online shop is outdated. Each business should assess the value and resources required to run e-commerce. For many, a well-structured website with service listings and a contact form may be enough, especially in fields like beauty, repair services, or trades. The best approach is to start small and grow by doing quality work rather than chasing a large online store from the start.
7. Cybersecurity is only a concern for large entities
Cyber threats are pervasive and growing with increased online activity. Attacks can disrupt operations, compromise data, and damage reputation. Businesses should implement basic security measures to reduce risk and protect both customers and operations, regardless of size.
8. I don’t need a professional email with my domain
A domain-based email reinforces a professional image. Free accounts can raise questions about credibility. A domain email, often included with hosting, improves branding and trust, presenting a consistent, professional identity to clients.
9. I’m not interested in having a blog; will it generate revenue?
Blogging can support search visibility and establish authority in an industry. Regular, high-quality content helps attract visitors, boosts SEO, and positions a business as a trusted resource. For example, a flower shop could share care tips and product insights to grow audience and sales over time.
10. No one will help me digitize
While progress varies by market, many governments and private sector partners are increasing support for SMB digitalization. The overall trend is clear: adopting digital tools drives growth, efficiency, and resilience for small and medium businesses in North America. Embracing digital is a timely decision—delivering opportunities sooner rather than later.
In sum, the digital journey is a practical path for SMBs, with or without large budgets. A smart online presence, reliable hosting, and a focus on core needs can unlock growth and long-term success in both Canada and the United States. The path is clear: start with a solid website, protect it, and expand as capabilities grow.