I think most would agree, no matter what business they are involved in, that technology has changed the face of the modern office. Some of the changes were sudden, some more gradual, but most we have come to take for granted over a very short space of time. From flexible communications options, to mobile computing and “anywhere” connectivity, we depend on the convenience and enhanced collaborative tools that our tech gives us.
Staying current with tech is one of the biggest challenges facing businesses
For companies both large and small, staying up to date with the latest advances can be a challenge. It means being able to provide office workers with the tools they need to get their work done efficiently, securely, and in such a way that improves – rather than hinders – their workflow. In a shared office environment this is especially important, as members will expect the latest accommodations. Being well-acquainted with the possibilities, as well as the near-future eventualities is a must.
Regardless of how you may feel about technology in the workplace, it’s all for the greater good. Let’s look at some of the ways tech has changed the way we do things in an office environment:
Technology in the workplace impact #1: Enhanced Productivity
Technology tools, applications and networking capabilities now shape the course of our day. From the calendar and scheduling, our time management has never been more efficient. Because we have so many collaborative tools at our disposal, we spend less time locating people, having off-topic conversations, and getting answers to burning questions. Due to the immediate nature of our tech, results are also expected much more quickly. Using cloud technologies like virtual desktop, employees can access their files and the company network from anywhere, and on any device. In fact, many companies maintain a remote workforce in this way for the purposes of staying lean. Getting things done is the name of the game.
Technology in the workplace impact #2: Workforce Collaboration
Our ability to collaborate in flexible ways is on the rise, and in no small part due to the advances in communications technology. For many companies, the workforce has gone global, whether that means having a sales team in other cities, or outsourcing partners around the globe. The ubiquitous nature of the internet, combined with communications advances like Skype, and VoIP phone systems that are fully integrated with your CRM allow employees to make the most of their time, providing enhanced value to the company bottom line as well as making everybody’s lives easier. Cloud-based services like Dropbox, Microsoft Office 365, and Google simplify document sharing and collaboration, and even provide online access to software that even a few years ago would not have been possible without a significant investment. Which brings us to the next item …
Technology in the workplace impact #3: Cost Management
Workplace tech has allowed many companies to dramatically lower their costs for many essential services and tools. Software, for example, has increasingly become available on a monthly, per-user basis, eliminating the need to purchase exorbitantly expensive licenses for company-wide use. This model also pushes automatic updates, which cuts down on time spent updating by an IT professional, and ensures maximum security and efficiency. VoIP telephony has replaced legacy PBX, dramatically slashing the cost of business phone systems and services while providing full integration with many popular CRMs. Skype and Skype for Business (S4B) has tossed out the need for in-person meetings, thus helping companies save on travel expenses. Cloud storage and computing has eliminated the need to purchase and maintain on-site servers, and provides companies with the ability to scale quickly and efficiently without much fuss or added expense. Remote workforces are enabled through virtualization and cloud technology, saving on office real estate and all its related expenses.
Technology in the workplace impact #4: Heightened Security
IT security is a growing issue in 2017. The good news is that protecting your network is easier than ever. With the accessibility of cloud platforms, many IT security solutions can be deployed on-line, running in the background as you work. With automatic updates being pushed out to keep your software current, you will always have the latest security patches. Backups can be scheduled automatically, ensuring that you always have access to a “clean” copy of your systems in case anything happens.
Office Suites Strategies: helping you keep up with advancing technology trends
We understand the need to stay current with your technology to increase efficiency, enhance productivity and reduce cost. Workspace Strategies is a leader in workspace management, and we would be delighted to have the opportunity to help you meet your operational and revenue goals. Contact us today to find out more about what we can do for you.
