When it comes to SME growth in 2016, technology will be a game changer, according to a new research from Barclays Business.

The research finds that small and medium sized businesses (SMEs) believe that the availability of better technology will be the most important contributor for business growth next year, with 39% citing it will have a positive impact, up from its position in second place last year.

The findings, which polled decision makers of SMEs on the impact of a series of factors on their business growth in 2016, also revealed that consumer demand will be vital to accelerate growth, even though this fell from first to second most influential factor with a net score of 32%.

On top of this, international markets/opportunities overseas (25%) remain a key focus for business growth.

The other key factors that SMEs believe will have a net positive impact on growth in 2016 include a move to online or improvements in digital presence (23%), and major sporting and cultural events, such as the Rio Olympics (10%).

When it comes to the factors expected to hinder growth in 2016, money or funding constraints (-20%) as well as competition among similar businesses (-18%) are key concerns for the year ahead.

Rebecca McNeil, Barclays head of SME lending, says, “It is encouraging to see that many SMEs recognise the importance of technology for their business growth.

“It is therefore essential that businesses are given the right support, tools and guidance to enable them to embrace any new opportunities to maximise their growth.

“Businesses recognise that there are challenges to growth, such as extreme weather and access to funding, which remain a concern for some.

“We understand these challenges and are committed to doing all we can to minimise its impact.

“If a business is concerned about adverse weather impacting them planning ahead and speaking to their bank can help to manage cash flow.

“Currently we are the only bank to provide pre-assessed loan limits to businesses, giving SMEs the confidence they need to invest and scale-up their growth,” she says.