Are there actually ways to simplify business processes that can save you time and money? Well that’s the million dollar question most business owners ask themselves on the regular basis. It is important to continually seek ways to get the job done in a more cost effective manner without compromising quality – and your brand. Though there are many avenues you can take, many small business owners have leaned towards the use of technology to help streamline practices.
Intuitive and advanced technologies are being developed every day that provides several options to businesses looking to simplify processes. Whether its business applications for improved communication, or interactive tools and resources to provide better marketing platforms, there several resources at your disposal. The question then becomes…
What technologies are worth investing in to simplify the business? Below are a few most commonly considered:
1. Business in the Cloud
When cloud technologies and cloud computing became a popular term, it was first thought of as applications that were great for storing files like music downloads and pictures. However, with new advancements, cloud technology has gone above and beyond the storage platform. Today, there are cloud based business applications for just about every business need. Employees are now able to remotely have access to documents, files, and cloud based databases/applications anywhere there is an internet connection. Whether you’re in need of an affordable word processing system, file storage, or an accounting system for generating reports, there are cloud based solutions available.
Cyber Security: With the increased investment in business software and applications, company data becomes vulnerable to cyber thieves. Investing in network security software ensures that your company information is never compromised. Such features allow you to stay vigilant and proactive against threats with real time warnings and easy to implement solutions. When you consider the fact that one threat could set you back thousands of dollars as well as a ruined reputation, investing in cyber security should be of extreme importance.
2. Internet Marketing Solutions
Marketing is essential to the success of your brand. However, if you’ve been in business for a while, you know that marketing can also consume a large portion of your time, resources, and finances. If you’re looking for cost effective solutions that will help you streamline marketing practices utilizing internet marketing tactics would suffice. Some options for streamlining might include:
Emailing for advertisements – email marketing is an efficient method of internet marketing. By creating a sizeable email lists, companies can send promotional or informational materials. With the click of a button, hundreds if not thousands of potential consumers will receive notifications to their inbox.
Social Media Management Tools – social media is a huge factor in marketing today. As businesses strive to connect with consumers on a more personal level, the need to post regular content is necessary. Social media management tools can make daily posting to multiple platforms a lot simpler. Creating an account can connect all of your social media accounts. From this social media management tool, you’re able to create and schedule posts, review analytics, and respond in real time to your target audience.
3. Virtual Phone Solutions
If you’re looking to improve business communications, investing in a virtual phone system can help. Essentially a virtual phone system is created using cloud based technology. There are plenty of benefits to investing in a virtual phone system. Workers are able to access the phone system wherever there is an internet connection allowing them to be more productive throughout the day. Calls are connected through the internet and can be routed to anyone else who has access to the virtual phone system. This is great for small businesses who have more than one location, remote workers, or simply for businesses looking to save money while streamlining company communications.
4. Project Management Tools
When collaborating on projects within the company it is imperative that staff remain on the same page in order to produce quality results. Project management applications can assist in keeping the lines of communication open and ensuring that the project is completed from start to finish. Managers can assign projects, create steps for completion, monitor the progress, set budgets, and even communicate with involved staff and customers to ensure that things are on target.
Hopefully this has given you some idea on where to start implementing new processes within your business. Streamlining your small business practices is really all about evaluating your company’s areas of weakness. Take a step back and review each segment of your business to discern if there are areas that could use improvement. Whether it is communication systems, marketing platforms, or project management, there are efficient technological systems, applications, and tools that can be used to cut time and money while improving productivity.
