Running a business of any size can be challenging. But luckily, many types of technology exist to help your company run smoothly. If you are looking for ways to improve your business workflow and efficiency, here are some things that you should consider adding to your infrastructure as soon as possible.
Cloud Storage
If you are not storing any of your business data in the cloud, now is the time to begin cloud migration. Many people ask what is cloud migration and what can it do for a business? Storing all (or even just some) of your data in the cloud lets your employees have remote access their essential business files from anywhere. You don’t have to be in the office and connected to the corporate LAN to see your work files. Storing data in the cloud is also a way to ensure that it stays safe in the event of a disaster or breach. If your physical servers are compromised, you still have your data securely tucked away untouched in the cloud so you can restore what was lost with limited loss of productivity.
Productivity Software
If you worry that your employees are spending too much time performing certain tasks and are unable to complete their jobs efficiently, there are many ways to ensure they stay on track. Project management software encourages employees to record how much time they are spending on each task so they are aware of what needs to change. It also offers a unique way to keep tasks and to-do items organized so everyone involved in a project knows exactly what others are doing and what is due when. If you find that productivity is sometimes lacking in your company, this type of software is a great way to keep everyone accountable for their work and contributions to the business.
Teleconferencing Tools
More employees are beginning to work remotely. So it is becoming increasingly difficult to meet in person and discuss things face-to-face. Many companies have employees spread all across the country or the world, and in many cases, they never get the opportunity to meet each other (even if they work in the same department or on the same team). Teleconferencing software solves the problem of being stuck with instant messages and boring phone calls because it allows you to actually see the people you are talking to. Sharing screens, hosting webinars, and simply being able to put a face to a name are benefits of this type of software. It can also be a great tool for offering demos to customers and checking in with employees when desired.
Use Shopping Cart Software
If your sales team is still processing and filling orders manually, now is the time to join the modern world and invest in shopping cart software. Having a dedicated landing page (it doesn’t even have to be fancy) where customers can make purchases online will allow your sales team even more time to track down leads and make more sales instead of wasting time processing orders via the phone or email. No matter the size of your company, or if you sell in a brick-and-mortar location or exclusively online, invest in robust shopping cart software to handle your transactions for you.
CRM Software
Customer relationship management (CRM) software is essential to those who wish to track customers and their journeys and experiences with the company. It is also a place to record every bit of information about prospects and customers so that everyone in the company knows everything possible about them. Your CRM entries should be as detailed as possible — when did they become a customer? Do they have multiple products? Have they submitted support tickets before? Update your records often so that no one is in the dark about a customer.
Business Tech
Running a business isn’t easy, but luckily, technology is here to help. Use these tips to increase productivity in your company.