Game-changing tech every SME business needs to know about

In today’s fast-paced digital world, technology is no longer a luxury but a necessity for small businesses. From streamlining operations to boosting productivity and enhancing the customer experience, having the right technology and tools in place (along with the support of a trusted IT provider like ourselves!) can significantly impact efficiency and growth.

The good news is technology is not only developing at pace but is also increasingly accessible for businesses of all sizes and budgets. Many tools now being launched specifically with smaller businesses in mind.

Did you know, more than 60% of British SMEs say the use of technology and digital platforms have helped their business to expand. While more than half agree that digital platforms have allowed their businesses to compete more effectively against larger brands. (Centre for Policy Studies).

Looking for some expert advice on making the most of technology within your own organisation? Then reach out to our team here at Dragon and we’d be delighted to help you.

 

7 game-changing technologies for small businesses

 

  1. Cloud Computing

Cloud computing has revolutionised the way businesses operate. It allows small businesses to access data and applications from anywhere, at any time. This flexibility is crucial for remote work and collaboration, and also offers a scalable solution that can grow and flex with business needs.

Example: Microsoft 365 is an advanced suite of cloud-based productivity applications. It includes tools for email, word processing, group collaboration, data analysis, presentation development, storage and more. By leveraging cloud computing, Microsoft 365 allows users to access these applications and their data from anywhere with an internet connection, providing complete flexibility and scalability.

 

  1. Customer Relationship Management (CRM)

Using a CRM system can help small and growing businesses manage interactions with current and potential customers, and also grow and nurture those relationships. It is a place to centralise customer information, track sales, and automate marketing campaigns. As it’s a central base, using a CRM can ensure you always have consistent and up-to-date interactions, with the ability to also set reminders and automate tasks (so no balls are every dropped) and to track trends and insights.

Example: There are many options out there, some of the most popular ones being Salesforce, HubSpot, and Zoho CRM.

 

  1. Cybersecurity

With the increasing threat of cyberattacks, investing in robust cybersecurity measures is essential. Small businesses are often targeted due to their perceived lack of security. Implementing regular staff training, firewalls, antivirus software, and conducting security audits can all help protect your business from potential threats.

Example: There are many standalone options available, providing varying levels of protection. Here at Dragon IS, we work closely with our customers to ensure every step of their IT systems and working habits are assessed, taking a security by design approach that provides complete peace of mind.

 

  1. E-commerce Platforms

For businesses looking to sell products, e-commerce platforms can offer a way to reach a wide audience (potentially global) with an online store also working hard 24/7 and incurring far lower overheads than you’d expect from a bricks and mortar shop. These types of platforms offer tools for inventory management, payment processing, and customer service, supporting the efficient running of an online store.

Example: Shopify, WooCommerce, and BigCommerce are just a few examples of sites that provide comprehensive solutions in this space. It is always worth seeking recommendations and reviews from current users and fully researching capabilities, when deciding on a platform to use.

 

  1. Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Automation

AI and automation can help small businesses save time and reduce costs. Chatbots, for example, can help in handling customer inquiries 24/7, while automation tools can streamline repetitive tasks like invoicing and email marketing. Embracing AI can lead to more efficient operations.

Example: Microsoft Copilot has taken things to another level. The pro version of the AI assistant (available on subscription) can help businesses with a wide range of daily business tasks, from creating PowerPoint presentations in seconds to summarising teams calls and drafting marketing materials. It has the potential to help businesses save time when using any tool in the Microsoft 365 suite, including search engine capabilities handy for research.

Find out more here:  A guide to AI for businesses

 

  1. Social Media Management Tools

Social media is a powerful marketing channel for small businesses and using social media management tools that can help with managing multiple accounts, scheduling posts, and analysing performance, can be really useful. Effective social media management can help increase brand visibility and drive the right kind of web visitors.

Example: Platforms like Hootsuite, Buffer, Sprout Social and Later can all help manage multiple social media accounts, with pricing based on criteria such as how many accounts you wish to manage and the volume of content you plan to share. Alternatively, you can make use of the analytics and scheduling tools found within most of the social media platforms themselves. An added bonus being that these tools are generally free!

 

  1. Mobile Applications

Mobile apps are becoming increasingly important for small businesses. They provide a convenient way for customers to interact with a business, whether it’s through shopping, booking services and appointment, or accessing information. Developing a user-friendly mobile app can enhance customer engagement and loyalty.

Example: Creating an app for your business is something that will need to be done with an experienced developed, once you have defined and set objectives for what you would like to achieve. Again, seeking recommendations and conducting checks into any freelancers or agencies you might work with is advisable.

 

In summary

Integrating technology into your small business operations may seem a little daunting, but the benefits can far outweigh the challenges. By leveraging the right tools and working with the right partners, you can streamline processes, enhance customer experiences, and ultimately drive growth.

In need of expert support?

Here at Dragon IS, we work with small and medium sized businesses, helping them with a broad range of issues relating to their IT infrastructure and cybersecurity. For an informal chat about your IT needs, please email info@dragon-is.com or call us on 0330 363 005.

 

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