Innovations in technology have improved operations at companies of all sizes and helped turn small local businesses into global businesses.
A number of tools and resources are available to help small business owners make the most of technology to become more efficient. It’s about taking the old way of doing things, and applying the power of your network to work as a team.
* Communication: Cell phones have become small business necessities for owners and employees. These devices are lifelines for staying in touch when on the road and responding to customer inquiries in a timely manner. Smartphones raise the bar with access to the Internet, email and business applications. * Marketing: Cell phones have become small business necessities for owners and employees. These devices are lifelines for staying in touch when on the road and responding to customer inquiries in a timely manner. Mobile marketing is a relatively new frontier that reaches people through text messaging, advertising on mobile applications and offering branded applications that tie customers into what is happening with the business in a fun and entertaining way. * Productivity: Small businesses need to wring every ounce of productivity out of their operations and technology tools help employees get tasks done more quickly. The key is to keep employees focused when using technology and to use it appropriately with the goal of saving time. Sometimes, a phone call may be more efficient and productive than an email. * Customer service: Technology brings business closer to customers. Businesses use email to answer questions, offer online chat to help customers that are visiting the business website, and equip call centers with the latest phone equipment that makes customer service agents more efficient. Give customers a choice of ways to contact the company. * Telecommuting: Many small businesses now offer telecommuting and flex time as