The business world is becoming ever more fast-paced. Just when you think you’re ahead of the curve, new technology makes way and calls for an even more digitised workplace.
Small to large businesses can benefit from a workplace focused on unified communications; mixing different technological platforms and cross-channel communications for a more integrated and productive business model.
What is ‘unified communications’, and why does your business need it?
Unified communications is a business and marketing concept that integrates communication services such as instant messaging, phones, email, voicemail, and VoIP with Customer Relationship Management (CRM) tools such as apps and social media.
A unified communications workplace is one that provides all their communications and technological solutions in the one place, creating a unified user interface for better business management and improved customer relationships.
By providing your workplace with a suite of tools, you are saving money, increasing productivity, and allowing your business to connect with anyone, anywhere in real time.
For a more productive and efficient workplace, look at investing in some of the following technologies to harness as your business and the digital age grows and expands:
Essential technologies for your business
Smartphone
Smartphones are replacing landlines in the real world and in offices. Advanced mobile technology and next-generation smartphones have transformed the way we work.
Whether it’s direct messaging, phone calls on-the-go, GPS assistance, or accessing projects and Cloud-based tools, smartphones allow businesses to communicate better and more effectively. The ability for employees to work anytime anywhere is also important, and smartphones can assist in this while saving time and money.
VoIP
Voice-over-Internet Protocol phone services such as Skype and Vonage allow businesses to save on call costs by providing a number local to clients or business partners.
With the nbn™ providing Australians with faster internet, businesses can take advantage of reliable connectivity and stay in touch with customers from all over the world.
Workplace security system
Digital security technology allows businesses to safeguard the workplace by providing the opportunity to store information securely on Cloud as well as allowing business owners to monitor security camera images on their phone.
Technology can tackle potential security risks by integrating CCTV cameras and alarm systems in a central hub that owners can access wherever they are. If you’re a business operating solely online, the security of your information becomes even more paramount.
There are now tools available for phones to manage the security of your information technology and remotely-control alarm systems.
Desktop computers and laptops
Regardless of what line of work you’re in, the desktop computer and laptop are the foundation of good business tools. From the computer, you can access popular curation tools such as the Office suite as well as spreadsheets, the internet, and e-mail.
Laptops are also a great tool to have when you have to take your work home with you. Those in freelance work know too well the importance of a portable computer that they can take with them to be able to work from anywhere.
Virtual meeting platform
Virtual meeting platforms and video conferencing apps save business personnel time and money.
Online meetings are more cost-effective compared to a physical meeting since only an internet connection is needed. A physical meeting requires travel, time, and expenses while hosting virtual meetings can allow employees and business partners to attend no matter where they are.
Hosting online meetings is also an effective recruitment tool, giving people the opportunity to attend job interviews or one-on-one meetings in their own time. This is particularly good for business owners who need flexibility or who haven’t got the time or resources available to host meetings on-site.
Social media profile
Any business regardless of size or scale should harness the power of social media. Social media not only adds more convenience to our lives, but it’s also a wonderful piece of technology to increase business marketing success.
Social networking sites such as Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram act as a digital business card allowing for a more established presence online and helping businesses to reach new clients.
Social media can also be used to talk about your business’ new products and promotions, provide advice, and even to market products to anywhere in the world.
Can workplace technology benefit your business?
Incorporating unified communications in your business model can be particularly appropriate for small to medium businesses since there’s a flexibility to select a solution best for your needs.
A more digitised workplace will help your business to run more efficiently and can be a cost-effective solution when it comes to marketing and keeping in touch with clients and important partnerships.
To remain competitive, every business should harness some or all the above technology solutions and explore how else unified communications can improve your workplace.
“The opinions expressed by BizWitty Contributors are their own, not those of BizCover and should not be relied upon in place of appropriate professional advice. Please read our full disclaimer."
