Technology can help small business owners leverage limited capital in smarter, more effective ways. In some cases, using technology provides greater efficiency and versatility, making it a natural progression for processes you may already have in place in your business. In others, you may need to make some adjustments to reap the benefits of tech-friendly alternatives. The good news is that the benefits often outweigh the short-lived challenges of the transitional process, once new systems are in place.
Productivity
1. Time tracking software is an excellent tool for mapping out where time is spent, by whom. Such analysis when properly utilized is great for accountability, process improvement, and productivity.
2. Streamline your work processes with digital dictation.
3. Use project management and task management tools to stay on top of your daily business responsibilities.
4. Create a digital filing system to make it easier to sort, save, share and find documents.
5. Develop an efficient email management process that makes it easier to stay on top of the flow of messages.
Money Matters
6. Use an online invoicing service to reduce the costs of collecting payment from customers.
7. Use online budget tracking to keep on top of—and reduce—your expenses.
8. File your taxes more efficiently online.
9. Create a new income stream by selling your products online.
10. Use a comprehensive accounting software to streamline your business finances
Marketing
11. Use software to create a marketing plan that you can edit, update and share with your team.
12. Use social media sites like Facebook, Twitter, Google+, Pinterest, YouTube, etc. to promote your business, products, and services.
13. Start a blog related to your business and target audience.
14. Collect email addresses through an opt-in form and start utilizing the power of email marketing
Collaboration and Learning
15. Conduct teleconference calls to make sure team members in different locations are on the same page.
16. Webinars or web conferences are great for keeping everyone in the loop with travel-free face-to-face time.
17. Share files and data with the cloud
Customer Service
18. Set up an online help desk or ticket system to handle customer issues.
19. Allow clients to schedule appointments online at their convenience.
20. Use online surveys and questionnaires to get customer feedback.
To learn more about tools to automate and streamline the majority of your business functions, contact us today to speak with one of our business development experts!
