The Top Three Tech Tools All Small Business Owners Need
Even though new IT solutions have been developed for businesses of all sizes, not every option on the market is an advantageous choice for every company, especially small or medium-size organizations. Although many of these developments can help a business save both time and money, it’s crucial that a company determine what it will find beneficial and what will integrate with its existing infrastructure. Amid all the different options, three key innovations are helping business owners reach new levels of efficiency and productivity.
Cloud Services
Cloud storage and cloud-based programs allow a business to store and manage its data in remote locations accessible over the Internet, as opposed to using its own in-house storage systems. With a cloud-based system, a business can handle its data more efficiently and cost effectively. By storing data in the cloud, the business no longer needs to maintain expensive in-house infrastructures, saving the company money. Cloud storage services also make a business’s data and applications available to its staff from any location with an Internet connection, which means the company’s employees can collaborate with one another more easily, access important data in real time and provide more effective customer service.
Tablets
Tablet technology is continuing to improve, and these devices are becoming more advanced each time a new version is released, thus allowing businesses to use them for a greater number of important tasks. Because they’re lightweight and portable, employees can carry a tablet with them wherever they go, allowing them to connect with one another from virtually any location. This is especially helpful if a business’s employees travel to meet with clients or suppliers, attend conferences or provide onsite customer service. Tablets are also much less expensive than traditional desktop computers or even laptops, so it’s easier and more affordable to provide them for a company’s entire staff.
Software as a Service (SaaS)
Software as a Service is a software distribution model in which a third-party provider offers programs and applications to customers via the Internet. Instead of purchasing expensive software programs and managing them in-house, this system allows the business to subscribe to individual cloud-based programs and applications for a smaller fee. These programs typically focus on improving technology experiences for the business user, which can increase a business’s overall effectiveness and efficiency. SaaS programs are also cost effective, and since they’re managed by a third-party, they reduce the need for a large internal IT department. Furthermore, many of these programs are scalable, which means that companies can enlarge or reduce them based on their specific needs.
Taking Advantage of the Latest Innovations
As customers and businesses continue to become more dependent on technology, the need to incorporate tech tools into business operations is more important than ever. Regardless of the type of business, a company can improve efficiency and save money by using one or more of these advanced tools. Although some business owners may remain skeptical or fearful of tech tools they haven’t used before, the ability to embrace them, incorporate them into daily operations and evolve as a company is essential for success in today’s fast-paced business world.
Amy Bishop works in marketing and digital strategy for a startup in Indianapolis. You can connect with Amy on Twitter, Google+ or Pinterest.
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