To help your small business grow, we’ve provided five highly valuable technology upgrades that will keep you one step ahead of your competitors. After all, a small business is only as efficient as its technological infrastructure.
Improve Your POS Systems
Did you know that the very first point of sales (POS) system was introduced in the early 1900s? Since then, these systems have undergone major innovative improvements. The best POS software centralizes payment processing, sales, and even customer relationship management. Choosing the right POS system will provide:
Vendor management Inventory tracking Customer loyalty programs Employee management
Furthermore, you’ll want a point-of-sales system that’s affordable and allows you to include third-party apps to optimize your payment and sales processes. With an upgraded POS system, you can provide a positive customer or client experience whenever they buy products or services from you. Providing convenience for your market will inevitably boost your company’s growth.
Upgrade Your Hardware
Slow computers, old printers, and out-of-date telephones can create havoc for your team. Outdated hardware can also slow down productivity and increase stress levels in your departments. Additionally, obsolete devices can cause more errors when trying to complete projects. Old hardware can also increase the need for maintenance which can cost your company thousands of dollars. Many companies decide to buy second-hand parts with no warranties, which affects system stability. With upgraded hardware, you can experience the following benefits:
Increased company security The ability to improve turnaround times on projects Decreases employee stress and anxiety Helps your company save on maintenance costs The software will be more compatible with new hardware Faster hard drives and CPUs will decrease system crashes
When you have updated hardware, your IT department can spend more time developing better security systems for your digital infrastructure and less time fixing broken hardware.
Take Advantage of Cloud Operations
As a small business, you can experience many benefits with cloud computing. The most beneficial factors are that it helps a small business save on costs and increases operational flexibility. Here are other benefits you can experience from cloud operations:
Frees space: There are many functions of cloud operations. You can free up hard drive space by storing documents, images, videos, and other large files in the cloud. Access files anywhere: If you have a hybrid working force, staff can access files and folders no matter where they are in the world. As long as they have a device with a strong internet connection, they can access your company’s cloud. Virtual Machines: If you haven’t got the budget to upgrade your hardware, you can use a virtual machine (VM) to deploy apps or run programs. With a VM, you can run multiple operating systems simultaneously. You also get regular system updates and backups, so you don’t lose work. Virtual servers: Another type of cloud operation that’s suitable for small businesses is virtual servers. Physical servers are at constant risk of breaking or shutting down. Virtual servers provide better disaster recovery solutions. Environmentally friendly: Lastly, cloud computing offers efficient and economical use of energy that may potentially reduce your company’s CO2 emissions.
Digitize Documentation
As a small business owner, you should consider various ways your company can save money and space. The average printing habits can cost a company over $700 per employee! You’ll also spend more on paper, ink, and printer maintenance. Additionally, storing documents can take up plenty of valuable office space. To avoid high printing costs, you should have a strict digital document policy. Digital documents are easier to share and decrease the risk of fraud. It also boosts productivity because employees aren’t spending time printing, storing, or physically posting documents to clients. You’ll save on postage costs, too, because documents can be sent via email or over cloud storage such as Google Docs or Sheets.
Provide Mobile Team Devices
If your small business has a hybrid workforce, you may need to provide mobile devices such as:
Laptops Tablets Smartphones Scanning machines E-signers
When you fully equip your team with updated technology devices, they can work remotely no matter where they are. With the proper devices, they can:
Send and receive documents from home Respond to or send emails when out of the office Communicate with staff via team management systems Assist clients or customers over the phone Conduct business meetings through video chats Track orders and inventories through mobile POS systems
The mobile devices you supply to staff must be fully updated and checked regularly to ensure the best productivity and performance.
Final Thoughts
Are you ready to boost your company’s growth? You can make major changes in your business simply by upgrading your hardware and software. Faster running computers and digital documentation can speed up your company’s processes. If you’re not sure what systems to upgrade, use the tips we’ve provided in this guideline to assist you.
