13 January 2011
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Technology is advancing so quickly that sometimes many people out there are unsure or unaware of how those advances could impact their business and its bottom line
I would love to list more but here are my top five:
Cloud Computing – This is a term that has been bandied about a lot this year but is really establishing itself now as the future of computing. It can be defined as:
“Internet-based computing, whereby shared resources, software and information are provided to computers and other devices on-demand”
In practical terms this means you don’t need half the software installed on your computer that you have at the moment and no real need for expensive servers as the software and data can all be hosted online. Very secure and proven by businesses both big and small this is here to stay. Microsoft are dedicating a lot of time to this area of technology so believe me when I say it is not a “fad”. Many local IT Companies can help you with hosted solutions so don’t be afraid to ask!
Social Networking – I am sure many of you are thinking “that won’t work for me” but….you are wrong! Social Networking is a powerful tool, so powerful that businesses of all size are using it to great effect. From your local plumber to companies such as O2 business IS being won via mediums such as Twitter, facebook and Linkedin. My advice is put together a Social media marketing plan and give it time, you will reap the rewards….I have!
Microsoft SharePoint – This is one of the most powerful and adaptable technologies out there at the moment and it are possible you already have it without knowing!
“ SharePoint can be used to facilitate collaboration, provide content management features, implement business processes, and supply access to essential information”
SharePoint has so many uses and all of them boost productivity. It will help manage your documents, keeping track of changes made by different users, it can provide a powerful intranet for your business…the list is nearly endless.
If you have a Small Business Server then it is likely that SharePoint is installed however SharePoint can also be hosted online so you are able to access all that functionality without having more than an internet connection and a laptop.
Mobile Computing – Mobiles are not just for calls these days. Choose the right ones and there are a host of mobile “applications” that can make business life much easier. In addition to that most can be used to access your emails these days as well as double up as a Sat Nav.
Low cost or Free Business Software – As times are hard people are looking to save money, but also maximise efficiency. If you look hard enough and are willing to step away from Microsoft then there are a number of good free business applications out there that can provide a lot of useful functionality. Google Apps are a good place to start and with products like Docs and Gmail a company can get a lot done without so many high licensing costs. Look a little further and Zoho have a good wide range of software including CRM and project management products.
Mount Recruitment Ltd | Company No: 06369902 |