One step
What kind of small business are you when it comes to taking on new tech? Use behavioural science to find out.

Don’t always feel comfortable adopting new technology into your business? Daunted by the pace and risks of change? Sick of hearing every single vendor preaching at you to digitally transform? You’re not alone. We surveyed more than 4000 small businesses worldwide to identify the most common behavioural barriers to new tech to help you better understand what may hold you back (read the report here), so we’re hoping you’ll find the results useful...or at least worthy of a laugh.
Take this quiz and tap into our behavioural science research to find out which mindsets and behaviours are most likely holding you back from adopting new technology.
Remember, one step is all it takes to move you on your tech journey.
The report
In a world-first study, we applied behavioural science to identify the key behavioural barriers that might hinder small businesses in choosing to adopt new technology. In this report, you’ll read our findings, including insights specific to each country we surveyed, as well as recommendations that can help small businesses take one step in their tech journey.

The human barriers to technology adoption
Xero has harnessed the power of behavioural science to produce a global landmark study on the behavioural barriers small businesses face in adopting technology and how to help them to overcome these.

The quiz
Tech adopter or delayer? Does risk make you want to dive in or opt out? When faced with numerous empty parking spaces, do you feel freed or frozen? Take our quiz to find out what sort of behavioural barriers you face most often and how these might affect the way you adopt technology in your business. No pressure, no push – just one thing to think about.
Meet the mindsets
Get to know the three common mindsets that frequently hold small businesses back from adopting new technology.

It’s good enough
You’re comfortable with the way things are, so why change? Find out why ‘good enough’ may not always be as safe as it seems.

It’s too risky
The risks always seem to outweigh the rewards, but do they really? Learn how to assess the challenges of change with greater clarity.

It’s hard to choose
So many options, so many details – what’s a small business owner to do? Discover how to unstick yourself and take charge of your tech for good.
Tools for small businesses
Use these tools to see where you can conquer any behavioural barrier that may be holding you back.
Decision matrix
Visualise the pros and cons of different options more clearly. It’s great for those who struggle with risk aversion or a resistance to change.
Pre-mortem
The pre-mortem kicks off with a ‘worst-case’ outcome and then works backwards to help rethink those risks – one step closer to success.
Cost-benefit analysis
Useful if you tend to struggle with resistance to change or aversion to risks, and sometimes helpful when you’re not sure which tech option to choose.
Q & A checklist
Spend time learning from tech adopters who make consistent, well-calculated investments in technology, and you’ll be more confident in doing so too.
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