There might be a misconception amongst small business owners that modern-day technology is too advanced for their seemingly uncomplicated operations. Software, apps, gadgets, data science, etc. may all seem like foreign concepts that have no real value for the small business’ success. However, this couldn’t be further from reality. The tools of technology can be assets for any company; the key is figuring out what works specifically for your organisation.
Before jumping into the deep end of cutting-edge technology, first assess how your business functions. What areas need improvement? Are there any operational deficiencies that should be addressed? Once you’ve figured out what problems require solutions or what areas could be improved, then it’s time to look at the technology resources available and determine which ones are best suited to fulfilling your business’ needs.
Here are 10 ways technology can help your business, even if your business isn’t a major global corporation.
Team Communication
Improve communication and collaboration amongst team members. Whether it’s ten people or a hundred, it’s important to have a cohesive unit. Can your business benefit by having a customisable communication tool tailored for the niche it’s in? Slack is a great tool for business communications, we’ve been using it for years! Try it out.
Mass Communication
Improve communications to clients, customers, and stakeholders. Yes, a phone call is an easy way to communicate in a hurry. But what if you need to send the same message to a group of customers or stakeholders? Emails and group texts are efficient but if they’re not executed properly they might just end up being viewed as spam and your message will not impact its intended audience. A proper email marketing strategy needs careful and considerate execution, and a team that can help you is just one click away!
Accounting
Increase productivity through speeding up normally laborious tasks such as invoicing, bookkeeping, maintaining an online customer database etc. You might not realise how much of your working hours are spent doing tasks that could easily be accomplished by software that takes considerably less time. Some user-friendly, affordable options are QuickBooks, Xero, and Bookkeeper.
Customer Service
Improve your ability to provide top-notch customer service. Is there a way to streamline interactions between your staff and customers? Can the process of delivering to the customer from the initial contact with them be enhanced by technology?
Customer Retention
Customer retention, it’s worth considering that customers would expect businesses to keep up with the times. Introducing technological measures could ensure that your business doesn’t fall behind as advancements in technology progress. Modern consumers are more reliant on social media or other digital channels to inform them of what’s current and trendy on the market. Therefore they are less likely to pay attention to old-fashioned advertising media, like TV, newspapers, and radio. Customers seeing your ads on platforms they regularly use would then feel as though they can rely on your operation to always provide a good, updated service.
Expand Business
Make your operation more flexible. Think of everything your business is doing without using technology now. Is it limited to just the physical and mental capacities of your workers? This, of course, does not mean that your workers are incapable. It’s just that technology can provide tools that enhance their natural skills and what they can accomplish, allowing your business to expand on the services it provides.
Boost Marketing
Boost your marketing. Word-of-mouth is no longer confined to friends meeting once a month and making recommendations over drinks; it’s practically the driving force of most social media. Nowadays, if your business lacks an online presence then it may be doomed to obscurity. A solid, user-friendly website in tandem with engaging social media profiles can catapult your business to further success.
Cloud Storage
Keep your business safe, accountable, and prepared. Filing cabinets and desk drawers are not foolproof and are susceptible to a whole host of environmentally degrading factors. Cloud services are affordable and allow all your important company information to be stored securely beyond the reach of physical damage. Cloud services are heavily protected against breaching by hackers and viruses. Also, Google Docs and Google Apps allow you to virtually create important documents without the hassle of keeping track of a hard copy.
Staying Ahead
Expand your ability to keep track of trends and competitors. Technology can provide the resources to know what rival companies within your niche are doing to drive profitability. You can then make informed decisions that keep your business relevant and on the playing field.
Business Growth
Technological tools present opportunities for eventual business growth if desired. If you are content with managing a small business for now, technological efficiency is key. But implementing technology into your operations opens up your business to possibilities like never before. Your business can expand to more locations because of improved internal communications, or its range of services could increase due to a more competent and efficient staff. Technology offers no limits.
To learn more about our technology-based services, products and packages for small business marketing and operational automation, don’t hesitate to contact us [email protected] and find out what we can do to help your business evolve and compete in today’s digital playing field.
