Updating your business systems can be a big stretch on your finances. But with changing tech being a constant issue, you can either view it as a good or a bad thing. Good in the way that it is helping your business to work across all avenues a little bit faster and more effectively each time. Bad in the sense that it can cost a small fortune, so it can be a bit of a financial dent in your small business funds. It can make for a headache at the end of the financial year when you’re trying to figure out what to cut back on to make your business profitable.
While there are tools that are not always essential, it will depend on your business goals. Are you looking to expand overseas? Are you looking for more consistency across your teams? Improved IT Support? Or are you looking for more communication? These are two tools that your business could afford to use to get that edge to stay in the game.
CRM
This stands for Customer Relationship Management. It is software, and it is very common with big businesses, so it could be something that you may need to factor into your budgeting as your business increases in size. These systems can be easily integrated into your standard office hardware. Essentially, it’s a combination of social networks and a Rolodex-style personal organizer, although it can vary depending on the system you use. It is a way to keep track of information and identify market trends.
It is a handy way to take advantage of back office processes as it can be used to automate many of the basic functions. It is a way to maximize the potential of your staff while also helping the business run smoothly. Overall, it is a great tool that will help to reduce unnecessary business costs.
VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol)
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This is a phone system that doesn’t need a phone line! That is a fantastic way to cut down on phone call costs. You use the internet as your makeshift phone line. From the point of view of a start up. Or an SME where you need to manage staff over more than one location. This is a tool that can ensure brilliant communication. These systems are very easy to install. So regarding it being practical for your business, you can get it integrated without costing you precious time or money.
The additional functions of the VoIP include automated queues and automated attendants on the line. These systems allow you to send an answerphone message to someone’s email inbox too, ensuring that you are more likely to reach your desired contact. The VoIP system also has remote worker functions and can connect to workers’ cell phones.
When it comes to reducing costs, you cannot go far wrong with these tools. CRM will help you to work with your existing customer data, and the VoIP can help you keep contact over many different locations. So these tools are worth the investment.
