We’re not quite at the stage where robots can do all our work for us, but we do have the next best thing; technology.
In recent years, technology has made significant improvements that mean we can spend less time on the small details of running our businesses, and more time working towards the bigger picture.
Here are a few ways you can incorporate more technology into your business to streamline your services and increase efficiency.
Tailor-made services
Technology changes at least once a year, but if you want your startup to be successful, your software needs to evolve as quickly as your business evolves.
Companies that specialise in network security services take an in-depth, strategic look at how your business works and build a fast, effective IT system that will keep your business at the top of its game.
These services could include device management, monitoring and remediation; email security including anti-spam, anti-malware and IP filtering; data leak protection; and consistent IT support.
Marketing
Entrepreneurs no longer have to spend money on print ads to advertise their business to new customers. The first step to launch your business is build a website, which is a combination of marketing, the sales platform, and the first business premises.
You can also use email marketing, advertise on search engines, or even try mobile marketing. This is is a relatively new frontier that reaches people through text messaging, and advertising on mobile applications.
As the internet becomes more mobile, your marketing campaign can potentially reach millions of people anytime, anywhere.
Customer services
Customers can provide the best feedback, but only if they can contact your directly. In your website, include your email address, or links to your social media pages, so your customers can instantly get in touch with you to discuss your products, the efficiency of your website, and the quality of your service.
Not only can you display the positive testimony on your website to attract more customers, but you can also use their feedback to fix any faults and improve your services.
Work from anywhere
Gone are the days when your business had to be conducted in an office. Technology makes it possible to work from anywhere. With cloud technology you can log into your business servers from any computer or device, and check in on deadlines from the comfort of your home.
You could even extend that flexibility to your employees by letting them telecommute a few days a week; you’ll soon find that those who work from home are happier, more productive, and healthier workers.
Video conferencing apps
While technology has made it possible to communicate by email, social media, or instant messaging, sometimes you can’t beat face to face contact.
Video apps such as Skype are the closest you can get to a proper meeting when contacts live. A video conference commands the full attention of your potential partners, and you can gently remind them of some important information that may have gotten lost in the sea of emails.