Staying on top of technology isn’t just an option when it comes to business, it’s an absolute necessity. When it comes to both the survival and growth of your company, it’s important to understand what a technology-driven era we’re living in- failing to keep up with the latest advancements can lead to your business becoming obsolete and overtaken by your competitors.
One of the most recognisable examples of this is Blockbuster Video, at a time when competitors like Netflix were moving onto online streaming and more digital pursuits, they refused to be flexible and as a result, the multi-billion dollar company came to an end. So if that can happen to them, consider what not keeping up with tech can do to your much smaller company. The rapid pace of technological change really can make it challenging to know where to start, but read on to find out more about this.
The Cloud
Cloud computing offers a whole range of benefits for your small or medium business (SMB): no more bulky servers are needed in your office. Cloud technology in business means using internet services to store your data and run software instead of relying on local computers. It allows you to keep your files and programs in a secure online space, and they’re accessible from anywhere with an internet connection. So if you have remote and home-based workers, for example, they can access everything they need without being in your office. The cloud also helps businesses save money by avoiding expensive hardware and maintenance costs.
Security
When it comes to tech, security should always be a top priority. It’s a mistake to assume that cyber threats are only for big corporations, SMBs are equally susceptible. In fact, many criminals prefer to target smaller businesses, as they know that security likely isn’t as good. Make sure that your business network is protected with robust firewalls and antivirus software. Train your employees to recognise phishing attempts and encourage the use of strong passwords. You could look into getting Cyber Essentials Plus certification too to make sure that you’re up-to-date on how to prevent and protect yourself from cyberattacks.
Backup
It’s so, so important to back up your data regularly. Accidents happen, hardware fails, and disasters can strike when you least expect them. Having a robust backup and disaster recovery plan can save you from the nightmare of losing your important business data. A combination of both on-site and off-site backup options will give you extra security.
Stay Updated
Technology moves at a lightning pace, and it’s really easy to get left behind. For this reason, you should regularly review and assess your tech infrastructure and see if there are any upgrades or changes that are needed. Staying current will give you a competitive edge and help you make informed decisions.
Support and Maintenance
It’s natural to focus on the initial setup of your business tech, but don’t forget about the ongoing support and maintenance that’s needed. Depending on your time and money resources, you can either have an in-house IT team or outsource it to a reliable tech support company. That way, your systems run smoothly and issues are resolved promptly.
Mobile Friendly
Having a mobile-friendly approach is vital when it comes to your business, most people shop from their phones and tablets these days, so shopping and browsing your site should of course have this in mind. Make sure that your website is responsive and looks great on various devices, or consider having a specific mobile app created that will make your business look more professional and great on mobile devices.
