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7 Ways your SME can use Technology to Grow

7 Ways your SME can use Technology to Grow

If you’re a small to medium-sized enterprise (SME), you’re probably used to being told you need technology to grow your business and improve efficiency.

But even if you’ve managed to keep up with the ever-expanding range of digital technology, how do you work out which solutions are best for you?

Here are seven devices, software and communication platforms to check out.

1. Mobile

The Blackberry was first and best when it came to business smart phones and email on the run. But the trusted BlackBerry is now facing stiff competition from the likes of Apple and Samsung. The BlackBerry Passport boasts full QWERTY keyboard, IT support and clear separation between work and personal functions. Apple brought out the iPhone6 with larger screen and boosted processor and design features in an attempt to keep rivals at bay. The Samsung Galaxy NotePRO is designed to maximise productivity through bold screen and easy-use functions.

2. Tablets

A mind-boggling array of tablets exist to help your streamline your business. Take your pick from the iPad Air 2 (thinner and lighter than ever), the Panasonic Toughpad FZ-M1 (designed for rugged outdoor conditions), the Samsung Galaxy Tab S (long-life battery and fantastic screen) and the travel-friendly Dell Venue 11 Pro 7140 (with drive encryption and integrated TPM).

3. Management apps

Investigate the range of mobile business apps that are now available, enabling you to organise your day to the minute, transact business wherever you happen to be, and bring up records or sales figures at the touch of a button. It’s also possible to customise such apps – Salesforce is an example – to your own company’s needs.

4. Communications platforms

These new-age unified platforms are designed to improve the way you interface with customers, enhance communications and increase business efficiency. Integrating remote sites, they merge voice, data and IP telephony in seamless ways. Check out Samsung’s OfficeServ 7000 series for starters.

5. Upgrade your phones

Enhance your existing phone network rather than opting for brand new equipment. Opt for 1300 or 1800 numbers to promote your business image, or choose a Smart Number with memorable number or word sequence. Why not go for something like evoice’s eReceptionist, offering a smart business phone package to answer calls 24/7, send voicemails to email, and make flexible use of call routing, distribution and overflow?

6. The Cloud

Consider setting up a virtual office and switching to cloud computing. This gives you the flexibility of connecting to your business any time, any place. Run your business without having to build or maintain costly infrastructure.

7. Social media

Today’s customers have a whole new set of ideas, needs and priorities that revolve around business use of social media.

If you want your business to stay relevant and profitable in today’s marketplace, you need to be involved too. Explore how to create and maintain your business’s social media profile through Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Google Plus, to name a few of the many options available to business in Australia today.

When it comes to technological solutions for your business, these tips are only a guide. But it’s a great way to start your search for solutions that can help you manage your business operations effectively and grow. Happy hunting!