As the year comes to a close, some businesses are already making plans for the following year that will put them ahead of their rivals. Whatever strategy they choose, business owners must prioritize implementing the following simple tech solutions in 2023. Being a small business owner, you undoubtedly understand how it feels to feel overburdened by all the daily tasks required to run a company.
There never seems to be enough time in the day to get everything done, even if you have enough employees and/or independent contractors working for you. So why would you think about adding something else to your list of priorities, like studying and integrating new technology into your business operations?
The answer is straightforward; modern tech services and tools can save your business a lot of time and money. Additionally, a lot of them are simple to learn and understand. Continue reading for some important tech suggestions for your small business if you’re ready to streamline some of the procedures that are consuming too much of your valuable time.
1. Cybersecurity Software
Whether it’s for internal data storage or an online point-of-sale system, most businesses use a network connection to some extent. Larger corporations frequently have sophisticated data security systems in place, but small businesses can also become targets of a cyber attack if they don’t take precautions. Early adoption of cybersecurity software can help you safeguard sensitive client and company information.
Investing in antivirus software, which protects computers and networks from viruses and other malicious attacks, is a great place to start. To make sure that only individuals with permission can access your network, you might also think about buying a business VPN. Having the right technology in place will enable your new business to start off on the right foot toward long-term success, regardless of the specific tools you use in the future.
2. Inventory Management Apps
The days of managing your inventory using a spreadsheet on a work computer are long gone. Learn about inventory management apps if you want to have access to that information right now, no matter where you are. You can streamline data entry, tracking, and search functionality with these apps, which you can use on your phone or tablet, so you always have access to the data you require. To find the app that works best for your business, take some time to consider the advantages and disadvantages of each.
3. The Cloud
One of those terms that refers to a wide variety of things is “cloud.” The cloud, in its most basic form, is a platform that lets you store, access, and share data. The cloud provides greater convenience, flexibility, security, and scalability than other platforms, such as those you download to the hard drive of your computer.
Some of the most well-known cloud storage options include Google Drive, Microsoft OneDrive, and Apple iCloud. Almost anything digital can be stored in the cloud, including text documents, photo and video projects, accounting spreadsheets, and accounting software.
4. Interconnected Management Software
The pace of change in the world is accelerating. As uncommon as the purest form of a diamond was the concept of allowing employees to work remotely. In the present, 16% of businesses worldwide operate entirely remotely, according to a study by Owls Lab. This indicates that employees prefer remote work more and more as a way of life, and more businesses will need to support flexible work schedules for employees if they want to stay competitive in 2023.
Companies must implement the appropriate interconnected management software that can connect seamlessly to their employees’ digital workspaces to provide a thorough and integrated view of all aspects of the business to achieve this new type of work culture. Platforms for managing customer interactions, such as those offered by Salesforce, can assist businesses in keeping track of the apps they use for emails, online chats, and phone calls, as well as any client notes or profile updates they make throughout those interactions.
The company can log on to the same platform for a quick update or to complete a specific task in each area thanks to the management tool being accessible from the same hub as inventory tracking apps and human resources software.
5. Virtual Phone Services
Maintaining a landline at your place of business is no longer necessary. You can save a lot of money by using a virtual phone service, especially if you work with freelancers or employees who telecommute. You can get all the features you require from providers like RingCentral, Grasshopper, and Jive, including a toll-free number, voicemail, a name directory, and hardware.
Never before has it been more advantageous for small businesses to integrate technology into their daily operations. Do not forget to research security tools, protocols, cloud platforms, mobile options, and virtual phone providers. The time and money you save by using technology will significantly aid in the expansion of your business.
6. A.I Tech
The use of artificial intelligence software for your company will give you a competitive advantage over your rivals in the upcoming year. Over $7.4 billion was invested in startup companies using artificial intelligence in 2019. Additionally, according to Gartner, a U.S.-based technology research and consulting firm, the number of businesses using AI in trade increased by 270% between 2015 and 2019.
These figures highlight how important it is for companies to implement AI software for a few of their business processes, such as sales and customer relations, to accurately track customer behavior and support more informed decision-making. Even small businesses may use kiosks to assist customers with purchases or to address any future queries they may have about a product.
Larger businesses and corporations typically use AI in a different way. Robots that can perform calculations, such as rerouting harvesting equipment on farms for a higher yield, are being introduced to the workforce.
6. Financial Management Tools
To succeed in the upcoming year and beyond, it is essential to keep track of your company’s finances. Early accounting software acquisition enables ongoing cash flow monitoring, expense tracking, and payroll administration. Due to its usability and scalability, QuickBooks continues to be a popular choice for small business owners. However, those who need simple billing can use free software like Wave.
Conclusion
Large and small businesses alike are investing in technology to propel their operations to the top of their respective industries. Technology is constantly developing and playing a major role in all facets of life and business. It’s time to reconsider how your company employs technology. You will be able to transform your business through technology with digital transformation if you have the right strategy in place, the right leaders, and a knowledgeable team of IT specialists.
You can rely on the knowledgeable IT team at Valon Consulting Group to make this transformation successful and simple. Contact us right away to begin. You can reach us by phone at 1 (800) 4323-613 or by email at info@valonsales.com.