IT and computing is involved in almost every single area of a business these days. It’s at the point where we don’t even notice it, and start taking it for granted. Everything from your marketing budget to your business tax is likely handled by some form of application, and IT can really drain cash.
That being said, there are numerous benefits to investing in modern IT resources. Modern technology is fast, responsive and always available, and can benefit a business of any size. If your company is still set firmly in the stone age, you should fix that. By cleverly implementing IT technologies and optimizing your business environment, you can save a ton of cash.
So, here are several top tips on how your business can save money with smart IT resource management and implementation!
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Easier, cheaper growth
Most cloud-based IT services can be upgraded on the fly, whether on-site or using an external server. This means that you won’t have to predict the amount of resources your business will need. You can alter it on the fly! By investing in cloud technologies, you cut the need for costly hardware upgrades that could take a long time to implement. Most businesses utilise some form of this technology, so assess whether it’s right for you.
You’ll also reduce the need for physical storage solutions, like hard drives, if your data is stored in the cloud. This means it’s safer and is less likely to be lost or damaged. Loss of data can result in a hefty cost in order for you to get it back or even create it from scratch, so think wisely. Cloud storage also makes it simple to create backups, meaning every morsel of data is safe and secure. Twice!
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Cut ongoing costs by using one, single business application
Data backup, customer data, budget tracking… there are so many different processes involved in the running of a business. By integrating them into one system, you reduce the need to invest in multiple different ones. A source like Adeptia’s website offers advice on integrated systems, so you can decide whether they’re right for you. If you’re looking to slash operating costs and streamline your IT environment, you may need to assess your infrastructure.
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Save time and get paid a lot quicker
Having to process a payment with one application and send it with another takes time, and could lose you money. Similarly, if you aren’t able to set up customer data fast enough, you could be losing out on a payment you should have got a week ago. Combining the two processes can remove the headache of jumping between different applications. You’ll also not have to pay numerous different vendors for their services.
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Ditch the cash, and ditch mistakes
Far too many businesses are still only accepting cash payments, and it’s hard to understand why. Cash payments waste time, as the customer and your staff will have to count out the cash. This also leads to mistakes, as your employees could count the amount they have incorrectly. Mistakes lead to more mistakes, and your financial data can be compromised without you having a clue what caused it.
So, ditch cash payments and implement an EPOS system. You can track all your products and sales on the fly, all from a single CMS. It will be a hefty upfront investment, sure, but you’ll eliminate costly mistakes in the long-term that would’ve been a pain for your books.
Electronic sales systems can also speak with other business technologies, like your budget spreadsheets. Sold a product? That spreadsheet will automatically update. You’ll save time, stress and will reduce mistakes, which can only mean good things for your financials.
Additionally, electronic sales systems have other, more subtle benefits. By cutting cash payments, you can reduce the time customers spend queuing allowing you to get more through the door. You’ll create an enjoyable, reliable experience for your customers, making them more likely to return. The more people you serve, the more money you get!
In conclusion
It’s not hard to see why so many businesses rely on IT and cloud-based resources to save them time and money. It’s 2016, and if your company isn’t aboard this bandwagon, it’s about time you jumped on! The benefits are numerous, and if you play your cards right, the costs can be low. Every business needs to be organized, and there’s no easier way to get in shape than with IT resource management.
Has this article helped you and your business invest in new technologies? Perhaps you already have? Share your thoughts in the comments below!