There’s no denying it, technology is the key to running a successful business. As we move into an even more digital future, this fact isn’t going to change. From 5G to automation, here are some ways that businesses are modernizing their technology.
1. Upgrading to 5G
Everywhere you look, you’re hearing about 5G. Towers are going up and network companies are encouraging users to upgrade their devices. What’s all the hype about? 5G means a huge change in connection and transmission speeds. Devices could see speeds 20 times higher than with 4G. This change in speed means a change in productivity and efficiency for businesses.
5G also means better network reliability and lower latency. This is in part because more devices will be able to connect to the same network without a drop or slowdown. Lower latency means no lag between devices, which will seriously improve efficiency.
To really take advantage of 5G, there’s a significant upfront investment for businesses. Businesses will have to upgrade their network, upgrade technology and train staff. It’s worth the cost though, as 5G offers big opportunities for automation and increased efficiency. These changes could even be as big as relevant use of virtual reality and artificial intelligence.
2. Utilizing Communication and Collaboration Software
No matter what industry you’re in, the world is too digital for a business to simply collaborate through email and conference calling. Software designed to change the way businesses communicate and work together can play a significant role in streamlining the way organizations do business.
Microsoft Teams has really taken the cake with communication and collaboration software. With a calendar interface that works with Outlook, chat capabilities, video conferencing and the ability to integrate a Microsoft phone system with a PBX, Teams has grown into a must-have for any size organization. This technology makes it so easy to simply have one platform for communication across the board.
All together, this may seem unwieldy, but Teams also offers the ability to organize and store information in subgroups, called teams. Anyone can be added as a member to individual teams, so all can share and work on projects remotely but in real time. These independent workgroups also allow for chat between members, as well as calls and meetings that can take place in the team, making it easy to stay organized and efficient while working online.
3. Efficiently Using the Cloud
The reason platforms like Teams are possible, is because of the capabilities and technological advancements in cloud computing. Though the technology itself can no longer really be considered new, it’s still changing the way businesses work and collaborate. Cloud computing allows for easy access to stored information and communication channels from anywhere.
This means individuals can work on the same project together in real time with little lag. It allows for remote work and for collaboration from all corners of the world. Plus, not having to constantly save and resend hard copies of documents means quality control and insight as projects progress.
In addition to the benefits offered with real time collaboration, the cloud offers so many security benefits. If something goes wrong with an individual device, data and information isn’t lost because cloud computing typically autosaves in real time. Not to mention, storing via the company network is going to be more secure than storing on individual devices.
4. Upgrading Network Security
As businesses store more in the cloud and take full advantage of online collaboration, it’s important to make sure that network security is up to date. More and more, companies are being hacked and putting customer data and business information at risk. From encryption to network security training, investing in the network can have huge benefits and long run cost savings.
Encryption services can be hugely beneficial especially with sending emails and accessing information that should be protected. This is also a great place to have two-factor authentication in place. Both encryption and two-factor authentication will help protect data confidentiality and integrity.
In addition to encryption and authentication, businesses should invest heavily in training team members on network security. Scammers and hackers are getting much more clever about sending realistic emails and gaining access to networks. Regularly training staff on how to keep from falling into these traps is essential to doing business in today’s technology-based world.
5. Improving Customer Experience
Technological improvements like 5G and upgraded network security definitely impact customers indirectly, but businesses are working to directly change the customer experience with improvements like chatbots and voice capabilities. Chatbots mean 24/7 customer support without needing employees working all hours. Voice capabilities give the customer more control over automated interaction over the phone. Both give customers more control and allow them to quickly troubleshoot and resolve issues.
Whether it’s to improve the customer experience or to improve internal communication and security, forward-thinking businesses are constantly looking at technological trends and making improvements on their technological infrastructure.
