Episode Details

Welcome to the CanadianSME Small Business Podcast, hosted by Maheen Bari, where we explore how Canadian businesses turn complexity into competitive advantage. Today’s episode focuses on inclusive digital strategy and why accessibility, performance, and execution are now core drivers of growth rather than optional enhancements.

In this conversation, Karine Simard, Director of the Inclusive Digital Studio at Ciao Technologies, breaks down how SMBs can modernize their digital presence with clarity and confidence. The discussion covers accessibility as a business strategy, common e-commerce pitfalls, scalable IT execution models, and why building for extreme environments reshapes how digital success is measured.

Key Highlights

1. Digital Accessibility as Strategy: Why inclusive design directly improves growth, efficiency, and reach.
    
2. E-commerce Execution Gaps: How to avoid friction that breaks the customer journey at checkout.
    
3. Squad as a Service: Why this delivery model outperforms traditional outsourcing for SMEs.
    
4. Security and Speed: Lessons learned from building for extreme environments.
    
5. Practical Roadmaps: First steps leaders can take to audit accessibility and drive inclusion.

Special Thanks to Our Partners:

• UPS: https://solutions.ups.com/ca-beunstoppable.html?WT.mc_id=BUSMEWA
• Google: https://www.google.ca/
• A1 Global College: https://a1globalcollege.ca/
• ADP Canada: https://www.adp.ca/en.aspx

For more expert insights, visit www.canadiansme.ca and subscribe to the CanadianSME Small Business Magazine. Stay innovative, stay informed, and thrive in the digital age!

Disclaimer: The information shared in this podcast is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered as direct financial or business advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for advice specific to your situation.