11 Ways to Save Even More Time Using Business Tech
In the world of modern business, we’re all aboard the digital train these days, aren’t we? After all, who can resist the siren call of gadgets and gizmos that promise us more free time, fewer errors, and maybe, just maybe, a lunch hour that actually lasts an hour? But here’s the thing: as brilliant as our tech tools are, there are sneaky ways to get even more out of them. Let’s dive in, shall we?
1. Supercharge Your DMS Game
Alright, let’s kick off with a classic – the Document Management System (DMS). Now, any business person worth their salt has probably dabbled in one of these bad boys. But are you getting the most out of it? Look out for a DMS that allows you to collaborate and file natively without switching applications, like this document management system for accountants, for example. So, there is no more juggling between Word, Excel, and your DMS anymore. It’s like having your cake, eating it, then realising there’s another slice hidden away. It will save you time, and maybe even your sanity. Delightful!
2. Automatic Calendar Scheduling
How much of your day is spent sending emails like, “Does Tuesday at 2 work for you?” only to get a reply that, in fact, Wednesday at 3 would be better? Enter automatic calendar schedulers! Share your availability, let clients or colleagues pick a slot, and boom – meeting set without all the usual back and forth that you get with the email system. More time for tea and biscuits for the win!
3. Cloud-Based Collaboration
Remember the time when we’d send a document via email, then wait for edits, then send it back, then wait some more? Those were dark days. Now, platforms like Google Workspace or Microsoft Teams let multiple people work on the same document simultaneously. It’s like a digital party, and everyone’s invited!
4. AI-Powered Email Sorting
Emails. The never-ending flood of notifications is enough to drive anyone crazy eventually. But fear not! Many modern email platforms now use AI to sort your emails into categories: primary, social, promotions, and more. Instead of trawling through endless newsletters to find that one client email, your inbox does the hard work for you. Magic!
5. Voice-Activated Assistant
Let’s give a nod to our virtual assistants – Siri, Alexa, and the gang of automated PAs we never knew we needed until they rocked up and changed everything. Need a reminder for a meeting? Done. Want to know the weather forecast for your outdoor team-building event? Sorted. These voice-activated helpers are like having a PA in your pocket.
6. Integrated CRM Systems
Customer Relationship Management (CRM) tools are a game-changer in the business world especially when they integrate with other apps. Imagine logging a client call and having it automatically update their contact record and your sales report. The future is now, folks.
7. Mobile Payment Options
The business world doesn’t stop when you leave the office. So, having mobile payment options means you can finalise deals, accept payments, or issue refunds from anywhere. Whether you’re at a coffee shop or on a beach (working hard, of course), your business ticks along nicely.
8. Social Media Schedulers
If you’re looking to keep your brand lively on social media but don’t fancy being chained to your phone, social media schedulers are your knight in shining digital armour. Plan a week’s worth of content in one sitting and let the tech do the posting for you.
9. Training Webinars on the Go
Many business tech platforms offer tutorials and webinars. Don’t just dismiss these as beginner guides. Often, they’ll reveal features and shortcuts you hadn’t even realised existed. Pop one on during your commute (as long as you’re not driving!) and upgrade your tech knowledge.
10. Exploit Your Smartphone’s Potential
Our smartphones are miniature supercomputers. With the right apps, you can scan documents, translate languages, record and transcribe meetings, and more. Dive deep into your app store, and you might just find your next secret weapon.
11. Automation Bots
Last but certainly not least, you are going to want to explore the world of automation bots. Whether it’s for customer service chats or regular data entry tasks, these little digital helpers can drastically cut down manual hours, saving you not only time, but money too.
So, there you have it. While business tech is already a speedy ally, with a bit of finesse and know-how, you can make it Usain Bolt-level fast. Put these simple tips into action and you will not regret it!
