It’s easy to get hung up about technology. Are you using the latest software? The most up-to-date tools and apps for your business? Are you operating as tech-savvy as possible?
When you run your own business, there’s a lot to think, and worry, about. And we know, when it comes to technology, business owners do not always have the time to dedicate to it. Tech is an area where business owners can feel vulnerable. There is so much emphasis on business tech nowadays, and with the cyber universe moving so fast, business owners can feel as if they’re being left behind.
As an antidote to the feeling of tech-inadequacy you may experience as a business owner, instead of looking at the very latest tech advancements, here’s a quick rundown of the not-so-new technologies that really help businesses operate better. Many of the latest advancements depend on a certain level of tech adoption in the first place, but often, for many business owners without specialist requirements in their operation, getting the basics in place can be the most useful place to start.
Basic technology for running your business
Cloud-based file sharing
If you’re still clunkily sending very large email attachments of documents you need to collaborate on both within your team and externally with suppliers and customers, there is a better, more professional way. Data and designed artwork, not to mention video, are large file sizes that not even all email clients allow you to send. Resolve clogging each other’s inboxes and collaborating on documents easily by using one of the many cloud-based file sharing platforms available, many for free.
Whether you use Dropbox, Microsoft OneDrive, Google Drive, or any other cloud-based sharing platform available, not only will your sharing function be smoother and keep your emails and files untouched, you’ll be working in a more considerate, professional and efficient way, which speaks volumes about your operation.
Synced calendars
Online/offline meetings with some or all, or part of your team, and external clients and attendees – a busy calendar is the very least of what you should be managing with tech, via a synced online calendar. Microsoft Teams is the obvious choice, but even Google’s Calendar allows invitations, notes and attachments, all sharable and updateable so that everyone is up to date with the fastest-moving schedules.
Project management software
From building a house to launching a new marketing campaign, good project management software will keep track on your deliverables and streamline all task management, assignment and associated communication. The best project management will flag up issues before they arise, directing your attention to priority areas. Microsoft Project, Trello and Basecamp are just a few options out of the many project management software tools on the market to help you say goodbye to that pile of sticky notes.
Mobile scanning app
Paper? Really? No one wants to pass paper through a photocopier now if they can help it. If your client gives you a document for their files, scan it on your phone and file it away in an instant, saving everyone an enormous amount of time and faff. And you’ll look a whole lot more on the ball with the agility of your systems too.
Third-party e-commerce
If you don’t have your own e-commerce site, or perhaps e-commerce is only a part of your business, consider third-party e-commerce with its already, own established brand. Particularly if eBay isn’t sending the right message for your brand, consider using Etsy for your customers familiarity, reassurance and ease of purchasing, not to mention the already built-in audience who love to browse the platform.
Proposal software
How much time will you save if you don’t have to write every proposal from scratch? Choose a template from the many on offer within a proposal software package, edit in your elements and customise as you wish, and send it on its way. You’ll have more confidence in your proposals as well as level up your professional appearance to prospective customers.
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