How to use technology in your small business

Posted on July 20, 2016 by Lauren Bewick

Productivity

• Get time tracking software, this will allow you to see where you spend your time, so you can see where you can improve your time management. 
  We use and love Zendesk. Another great (free) version is Freshdesk.
• Create digital filing system and also reduce your expenses on office supplies.
• Choose apps on your smartphone that sync with the Cloud to stay connected, you'll have all your files right there and then, very useful especially when you're on the go. 
• Develop an Email management system to keep on top of your emails. There are some pretty efficient methods to get things done. One of them is so called inbox zero and it helps a lot!.
• Use remote desktop applications to access files on your office computer. We use and love TeamViewer.

Money

• Use an online invoicing system, to keep costs down for your customers. Have you heard about Wave?
• Use an online budget system, get on top of expenses, track and reduce them.
• Create a new income stream and sell your products online. 
• Use software to create a marketing plan. It should be easily updatable and allow you to share it with your team. Mind mapping tools like MindNode or FreeMind are particularly good for this.
• Utilise social media to promote your business, products and services. Facebook Twitter, Google+, Pinterest, YouTube, etc.

Customer Service Ideas

• Collect email addresses through an opt-in form (subscription) and begin to utilise the power of email marketing. MailChimp is easy to use and extremely effective, use it.
• Set up an online help desk or ticket system to handle customer issues. We love Zendesk and Freshdesk. 
• Allow clients to schedule appointments online at their convenience.