In today’s fast-paced work environment where almost everything is now done digitally or has digital involvement, office managers are constantly seeking ways to boost productivity, streamline their processes and support their team.
Thankfully, advancements in technology offer plenty of solutions to achieve this, with 2020 proving just how important and useful this technology can be to a modern workforce. From enhancing efficiency to improving employee skillsets, we’ve put together the top nine ways office managers can take advantage of new tech to give your productivity a helping hand.
Remote working
Like it or not, the pandemic has forever changed the way we work, with remote or hybrid working becoming the new norm for many businesses. By equipping your team with the necessary technology, you can ensure they are able to work from anywhere and still seamlessly collaborate and communicate with the rest of the team.
Cloud-based project management tools, video meeting software, and secure VPN connections are essential for enabling remote work and maintaining productivity. Many businesses have found their team are more productive at home too as it allows them both flexibility and a quiet environment to get their work done, as well as reducing on commute time.
Increased efficiency
This is a big one! Technology allows businesses to be more efficient which in turn maximises productivity as your employees can achieve more in a shorter space of time. By integrating smart software that automates repetitive tasks (think data entry and report generation), office managers can free up valuable time for employees to focus on more strategic and creative aspects of their work.
Collaboration
Smooth and efficient communication is vital for any workplace, no matter what industry you’re in. Invest in collaboration tools like instant messaging platforms or team communication apps that allow for real-time communication, file sharing, and more. These tools encourage teamwork, improve information sharing, and eliminate the delays associated with traditional communication methods…no one is waiting for a letter anymore!
If you’re a remote work force these tools are vital, not just for efficient working but for allowing you to build a good working relationship with your workforce. Employees that are happy at work are naturally more productive, so it’s important to foster this too and technology can help you do exactly that! We talk more about this further down.
Project management
Efficient project management is essential for successful project outcomes. Integrate project management tools that allow teams to collaborate, track progress, and manage tasks effortlessly. With features like shared calendars, task assignment, and real-time updates, project management software ensures everyone stays on the same page. This in turn minimises delays and gives your team’s productivity a nice boost.
Cost-effective
Every business obviously wants to increase their profit margins and technology can help you do just that. There are so many ways that technology can help you save money and increase profits, including:
- By storing data and applications in the cloud, businesses can reduce hardware costs, streamline workflows, and enable anytime, anywhere access.
- Having a remote work force reduces on offices costs like renting a space, cleaning and office supplies.
- Automation tools allow your team to work faster and more efficiently, letting them focus on other areas including sales, customer service and marketing. These are all areas which can boost a company’s profits significantly when the proper time is dedicated to them.
The fact that technology allows your business to work more efficiently is already more cost-effective in itself too. Time is money and the more time your employees have to focus on the important stuff, the more positively it will impact your business.
Increased customer satisfaction
Happy customers are essential to any business. By implementing Customer Relationship Management (CRM) software, your team can manage customer interactions more efficiently.
It provides a database for customer information, which enhances communication, tracks sales opportunities, and improves overall customer service. It also means nothing will be missed or forgotten, allowing your customer service to continue smoothly even if you have staff members who are on holiday or unwell.
Higher employee engagement
Engaged employees who care about their job are naturally more productive and contribute significantly to a positive work culture. Employee Experience Platforms (EXPs) offer a range of features to improve engagement, such as employee recognition programmes, surveys, and feedback options. By investing in an EXP, office managers can monitor their employee’s welfare which in turn increases motivation and productivity.
Better security
With many businesses now storing much of their important or sensitive information online, robust system security has never been more important. Implementing multi-factor authentication (MFA) adds an extra layer of protection to your systems and data.
By requiring employees to provide multiple credentials, such as a password and a unique verification code, MFA significantly reduces the risk of unauthorised access and data breaches, ensuring business continuity and productivity.
Ongoing learning opportunities
Investing in the professional development of your employees not only enhances their skills but also boosts productivity. Online training platforms offer a convenient and cost-effective way to provide new and continuous learning opportunities. Whether it’s industry-specific courses or leadership development programs, these platforms empower employees to gain knowledge and stay ahead of the curve, resulting in new ideas and new more convenient processes.
Curious how IT support can make your business more efficient and boost your team’s productivity? Contact us today.