Let's start with an example. Many of us know how Kodak, a leader in photography that failed to embrace digital imaging and new business models, ended up declaring bankruptcy. The same applies to any business today, regardless of its size and industry. Let's admit that technology is essential. It permeates all facets of our lives and businesses and continues to evolve day by day. In the 2020s, if an organization chooses not to keep up with technology, it risks disappearing into obscurity. In fact, successful companies don't see technology just as a way to automate processes, but use it to open up new avenues for doing business. Speaking of small businesses, in addition to reducing costs and increasing process efficiency, these entities are increasingly relying on technology to improve customer relationships, improve collaboration. and learn, respond to new threats, innovate and do things differently, and create competitive advantage in every sense of the word. In this article, let's take a look at how, as a small business owner, you can effectively use technology to grow your business and reach new heights in 2020.
Data storage in the cloud: access anytime, anywhere
For small and medium-sized businesses, cloud computing is expected to be the most widely deployed technology by 2020. Previously, most companies relied on internal servers to store data. Now they prefer to store their huge data in the cloud. Online data storage on cloud servers will continue to be the next big thing, as it allows for unlimited storage. In addition, it guarantees accessibility and the data is easily accessible from anywhere in the world. Today's social networks have given small businesses a platform to build their identity and provide them with a wealth of insight into audience behavior, something that was unknown even half a time ago. decade. Whether it's for promotion or sales, networking with existing and potential customers, or managing your online reputation, small businesses are jumping on the bandwagon, making it an integral part of their lives. . With the rise of social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram or LinkedIn, and many others, the trend is here to stay. There are many analytical tools that help small business owners make informed decisions. Tools like Google Analytics can be implemented in seconds for example to measure the percentage of visitors browsing your website on their mobile browsers or you can understand the bounce rate of your site and refer visitors and many more. #39; others. You can use predictive information to take action, a trend that will continue to unfold in the 2020s with changing customer preferences. Collaboration tools can help boost employee engagement and productivity in the workplace. While email has always been a powerful communication tool, in today's digital world where businesses often rely on remote workers or outsource their work, the idea of each person speaking or emailing is often it becomes cumbersome. A better solution is to have all team members on a platform where everyone can connect, participate and be updated with the latest processes and events, in order to help employees make informed and intelligent decisions. For these purposes, companies often use collaboration tools like Slack, Yammer, and Chatter, or integrated apps like Microsoft Teams and JIRA to make it easy to communicate with employees and grow their business.
Use a remote workplace
As the Internet becomes ubiquitous and technology continues to evolve, hiring a skilled worker is no longer limited to proximity to your workplace. As a small business owner, you may not even have an office in the traditional sense of the word, but you can operate through a virtual office and create a network of like-minded people around the world that you can work with. you remotely in a variety of capacities. If you have the right productivity apps like Zoom or Skype for meetings and other collaboration tools, or make use of time-tracking apps and tools like to-do lists and calendars, remote workers can also help you grow your business. .
Security of technology
Small businesses are attractive targets for cybercriminals because they generally have fewer resources dedicated to cybersecurity. But there are inexpensive ways to protect your data. Use the proper tools and techniques, such as implementing strong password policies, installing updated antivirus software, training employees, and using the user; multi-factor authentication and regular data backup help small businesses protect data and devices.
Online payment systems
Online payment systems make payment transactions easy and are a boon for small businesses. Whether it is Paytm, PayPal, Obopay or Google Pay, you have a multitude of payment gateways available in the market. Most of the platforms are directly linked to the bank accounts of the business owners. Online payment also offers greater flexibility to small business owners who can tap into new customer segments and help them do business around the world. Growing your small business doesn't have to be expensive. But it takes a lot of passion and dedication. You must start by researching and creating SMART goals. You may have a great idea for a product or service, but the market will determine whether your idea can become a viable business. And in order to grow your business, you have to constantly chase this changing and changing market. It's not your brilliant idea, but what the market will buy. And this is where the correct use of technology can help you make the right choice. If you want to grow your small business with a solution tailored to your needs, check out Dell's Republic Day sale for a 10% discount on a free Wi-Fi printer and other goodies.