Technology is terrific, but if it isn’t used correctly, it can become a huge distraction or waste of time. The appeal and productivity-boosting power of technology in the workplace is undeniable. If used correctly, technology creates efficiency and improves productivity. The following is a simple guide to better technology at work.
1. Invest in Technology That Solves Problems for Your Company
Identifying technology that allows you to solve problems and enhance productivity is crucial. For example, some businesses spend money on technology to measure workflow and sales but fail to invest time in analyzing what technology does for their business. Investigate your company’s needs and find the right information technology products to address these needs.
2. Consider Automation Tools
Many tools that solve problems for your company can be automated. Consider tools that can perform repetitive tasks or eliminate time-consuming processes. For example, consider automating the software installation process to make it easier to learn and use a new computer program. Also, you may use an automated calling system to automatically call customers and prospects to determine how they like your products or services.
Also, consider automation tools that allow you to gather information about customers and prospects at different sales cycle stages (such as lead generation). As business needs change, you can use this information to identify opportunities for change and improvement.
3. Examine the Effectiveness of Technology You Already Have
Have you used technology effectively? If not, review your current technologies. Are there ways to make them work better? For example, look for new applications that work with your business processes. Are they easy to use? Do they address your core needs? If not, consider how you can best use them to increase productivity and sales. For instance, you may need audio visual technology solutions to enhance communication within your organization.
4. Be Selective and Rely on Technology When Necessary
Don’t get too dependent on technology. Consider new technological developments and use the newest technologies when they prove helpful to your business. For example, consider a technology that allows you to send personalized e-mails with links directly to a prospect’s website or social media pages. Also, consider technology that makes connecting with prospects and customers easier, such as online surveys.
5. Begin with Easy-to-Use Technological Means
When buying technology products, start with easy-to-use technological means and work up to more advanced ones. Easy-to-use technology requires less time to learn and is less expensive. Also, it would help if you took advantage of free technology, such as the internet and e-mail, to communicate with customers and other stakeholders. The less expensive these tools are the more work you will do at low and the more opportunities you will have to increase productivity.
6. Get Consistent Access to Data
To improve productivity, consider getting consistent access to data. For example, if you have begun using a new technology that is faster and more accurate than your existing computer system, make sure everyone in the business uses the same technology. This will potentially eliminate time wasted on data entry and communication.
7. Train Your Employees To Use New Technology
How easy a new technology is to use will depend on employee knowledge and training. New technologies will not improve productivity if your employees are not trained to use them correctly. For instance, you may need a virtual meeting system to conduct online meetings or train staff remotely. In addition, consider training your employees on how to use social media tools. Many companies have effectively used social media to communicate with customers and prospects in an interactive format.
8. Use Technology To Improve Communication
With technology, you can improve the communication process with your customers and stakeholders. For example, you may want to use a learning management system that allows employees to access training videos on the go. Also, consider using a media delivery system to efficiently deliver your company’s message to different audiences.
9. Take Advantage of Video Conferencing Technology
Video conferencing allows you to communicate with different employees and management teams at the same time. Regardless of location, every member of your organization can manage to attend the meetings. Consider video conferencing applications such as Skype or GoToMeeting for communicating with colleagues, customers, and suppliers.
10. Run a Pilot Program Before Installing New Technology
Before investing in new technology, consider using a pilot program to determine if it would be advantageous for you to install the technology. For example, you may want to test your sales and marketing system before making a full-blown investment. Also, you can use a pilot system to ensure that new technologies will not become a distraction or cause other problems in your organization.
As you budget for new technology for your business, consider what you need to accomplish, and choose the right tools. Ensure these tools will solve problems for your organization and improve productivity and growth.
