Tech Solutions That Keep Small Business Productive

Think back to how business was done before the onset of the 21^st century. There was no e-mail, Internet, mobile marketing, telecommuting, or smartphones. Now communications are instantaneous, huge amounts of information move through e-mail and the Internet, and powerful tools are in the hands of businesses and its employees. Innovations in technology have improved operations with businesses of all sizes and helped turn small local businesses into global businesses due to increase in productivity.

Productivity in General

Small businesses need to wring every ounce of productivity out of their operations and technology solutions help employees get tasks done more quickly. This may range from printing out marketing materials to providing customer service through online chat. The key is to keep employees focused when using technology and to use it appropriately with the goal of saving time. A simple phone call with the right hardware and updated software can work wonders for peak productivity.

Communication Gadgets and Applications                             

Cell phones have become business necessities for proprietors and employees. These devices are lifelines for staying in touch when on the road and responding to customer inquiries in a timely manner. Smartphones raise the bar higher with access to the Internet, e-mail, and business applications in a small hand held device. Advanced types of SMS and social networking are other advances in communication that keep small businesses connected to their customer bases and improve internal communication within the business.

Marketing Applications

Technology has freed small businesses from the restrictions of print ads when it comes to reaching new and existing customers. Internet marketing ranges from a simple informational website, to advertising on search engines, to online selling and purchasing. Newsletters, coupons, and business or product updates are normal part and parcel of all business websites. Mobile marketing is a relatively new but effective frontier that reaches people through text messaging, advertising on mobile applications, and offering branded applications that tie customers into what is happening with the business in a fun and entertaining way.

Open-Source Software

Open-source software provides small business owners with alternatives to using mainstream commercial applications in its daily management of their businesses. Open-source software is attractive for many business owners because it typically requires no financial investment and frequently has the flexibility to fit perfectly with a business owner’s needs.

Time Tracking Tools

From billing your clients hourly or for monitoring hourly rates for employees, small business owners can find significant value in keeping track of time. This has a number of benefits including making your project estimates more accurate and helping you boost your productivity. There are many time tracking tools available, including desktop applications, online tools, and even services integrated into larger project management software.