There’s almost nothing technology can’t do for your business. Whether you want to keep an eye on your employees, collaborate with clients, or accept credit cards on the go, there’s a way technology can make it happen. Take a look at these seven ways to implement new devices and technology effectively today to improve your business.
Setup a Cloud-Based Server for Remote Access
Image via Flickr by Karin Dalziel
Many businesses allow employees to work from home because of cloud-based servers. This technology offers all sorts of advantages to your business. For instance, using cloud-based storage will eliminate the need to rent as much office space, employees will have a more comfortable environment to work in, and there will be less equipment for you to buy.
VPN connections used to be the only way to access a business server remotely. This was a slow process and there was a lot of setup involves. The cloud makes it easy to setup a secure server with fast and easy access for your employees, no matter what device. All your employees will need is the Internet and the right password.
Use Technology to Train Your Employees
There will always be a need for hands-on training, but computer-based trainings offer several advantage to businesses. The biggest two are that you won’t have to pay a trainer and your employees can learn at their own pace. It’s surprisingly easy to implement computer-based training technology; just hire an information design firm to take care of the software part for you. Then, add updates to the trainings as needed.
Manage Your Employees and Their Devices
Image via Flickr by Ryan Phillips
There are all sorts of ways you can use technology to manage your employees. For instance, you can implement digital time cards, put tracking systems on work electronics, and setup cameras in your workplace. Additionally, you can use BlackBerry’s mobile device management software to track the devices that your employees use for business, including those that are BYOD. That way you can monitor productivity and keep everyone organized.
Allow Real-time Collaboration on Documents
Version control is now a thing of the past because technology allows documents to be stored in a shared location where authorized employees can make real-time updates. Additionally, technology now allows for people to see the updates being made by other employees while they’re happening. Google has a whole suite of software that runs on this principle. If you’re not using this real-time collaboration technology in your business yet, it’s time to implement it.
Conduct Business on the Go
Technology enables businesses to reach a global audience because the Internet eliminates geographic restraints. There are no limits to where you can reach customers. This means that you can have more profits and expand more quickly.
Additionally, technology allows you to accept credit card payments and advertise your business everywhere you go. There are apps, such as Square, that turn your smartphone into a point-of-sale system. This is a great piece of technology if you like to go to trade shows or meet with clients off-site.
Run Instant Chat Technology
Instant messaging makes it possible to chat with other employees without leaving your desk. Plus, you can do it while on the phone with clients or while multitasking. All you need is to download an app on your computer or smartphone. Skype is a very commonly used apps for this in businesses. This piece of technology makes all employees more efficient because they can get their questions answered quickly.
Make Video-Conferencing Calls
Image via Flickr by Stefan Erschwendner
Most people would rather interact face-to-face than over the phone. Video conferencing makes this easier. There are apps, such as Webex and Skype, that let you see up to five faces at the same time during a call. This makes holding Monday morning staff meeting a lot easier and much more personal. Video conferencing also makes clients feel more special because they know they are talking to an real person instead of to a machine. As long as you’re not camera-shy, you can enjoy the benefits of video conferencing in your business with a few simple app additions to your computer, or smartphone, or other mobile device.
These are just a few ways you can implement new technology and devices into your business and be more organized and efficient. What is the most commonly used technology in your business? What do you think will come out next? Leave a comment below and share your experiences with us.
