We all know that, with additional time, there’s so much more that we could achieve. Do you ever wonder what you would do with a few extra hours every week?
Today’s successful businesses are working smarter, not harder. They’re finding new ways to improve the productivity of their people – and technology is making it possible. Of course, every business is different and what works for one may not work for another. The businesses that embrace technology are the ones that are prospering.
And by technology we don’t mean the really techy stuff, we mean the easy-to-use, tools and systems that are available for all small to mid-sized businesses. Below we share six key things (and there are more!) that you can do very easily that will free up priceless extra hours for you and your people – and improve efficiencies, team working and job satisfaction in the process.
- The basics: A fast and reliable internet connection and an automatically-updated cloud computing platform will ensure that your business-critical applications are always accessible. Remember, downtime is a business killer!
- Switch to versatile cloud-based telephony: Phasing out landlines and switching to VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) will cut down costs and improve your mobile working capabilities.
- Collaboration: Make it easy for people to communicate, share files and documents, work together and stay in touch – using Skype, Teams and SharePoint shared calendars for example – encouraging faster, more efficient team working.
- Consider remote working: Once you’ve embraced cloud collaboration this is the obvious next step. Statistics show beyond doubt that remote and mobile working boosts productivity by giving people more control over their working life. Happier, more content employees are more productive, it’s a fact!
- Update your management tools: This list is endless. For example, there are loads of easy to use tools to track the time everyone is spending on daily tasks, giving you the data you need to manage more effectively. The latest automated CRM systems are saving time and improving services too, speeding up contacts with customers and improving conversion rates. And apps like Evernote, capture and Teams help share project notes, so that everyone is on the same page and actions and responsibilities are clear.
- IT support: Being able to call upon expert assistance when you need it will ensure that you’re making the most of your tools and systems. Work with a IT support company in Salinas to keep your technology running smoothly and efficiently. Hire an IT provider that can provide your users with dependable technical support they can count on.