Technology can mean the difference between a flourishing business and one that gets out-competed. For small
businesses, tech can seem like too much of an investment, but there is plenty of technology out there that can make a difference without breaking your bank. Here are some of the different types.
Customer-Based Technology
Customers can make or break your business, so investing in technology that can help facilitate better customer-business relationships is important. Customer relationship management (CRM) technology is an organizational tool that can help you generate new customers and retain old ones. With the right system, you can learn from your customer interactions and identify opportunities for adjustments. Other customer-facing technology includes social media, email campaigns, or other marketing platforms.
Finance Technology
Small businesses rely on consistent cash flow. As you run your business, tracking your finances becomes extremely important. The right invoicing software can be used to store and organize invoices, generate reports, and get you paid faster. When you’re ready to set up your software, be sure to use a customizable invoice template where you can create unique and professional invoices. With these pre-made templates, you’ll be able to add your logo and other branding information so that it’s clear to whom the invoices belong.
Marketing Technology
Marketing can be tackled from multiple angles and platforms. For the basics, you should budget time and money for a website, a social media presence, and a mobile app. Surveys show that a third of consumers prefer to shop via mobile apps, so investing in an app for your small business can be a lucrative opportunity. Creating an app doesn’t have to be expensive either. Just make sure you integrate customer interaction and an easy shopping experience.
Automation
Automation can improve the efficiency of production, from basic operations to manufacturing. When it comes to in-house operations, you can automate marketing campaigns, financial reporting, customer interactions, and more. Robotics could be incredibly useful if you have a manufacturing and production line. If you’re looking for robotics companies, research different agencies to see which one might be the best fit for your company. Make sure to compare how customers have reviewed each company, what their rates are, and how long they’ve been in the robotics business.
Cybersecurity
Small businesses are vulnerable to cybersecurity attacks just like any other company. Some of the top threats include phishing, malware, and ransomware, so you’ll need robust cybersecurity software to protect you from such attacks. Before you purchase anything, make sure you’ll have access to a troubleshooter or an on-hand person should any issues arise. If your business is growing, you may even need to hire a dedicated IT staff member.
Cloud Computing
Cloud computing keeps your business flexible. With cloud computing, you can access your business data remotely. Putting essential functions on the cloud can make your business more mobile, making it easier to grow your business and deal with any setbacks.
Artificial Intelligence
Using AI to improve operations is nothing new. However, there’s a misconception that machine learning is only for larger businesses. Small businesses can benefit from AI, too. AI, in particular, can help improve customer relations and spot trends to allow for better strategic planning and product development.
Technology can keep your business up-to-date and give you more options to maneuver. Try out a few pieces of technology to see what might work best for you. A little investment can go a long way.