The use of modern-day smartphones rose around 2007 with Apple’s launch of the iPhone. Since then, smartphones have become an important part of most people’s daily lives. Coincidentally, it was also in 2007 that the business sector saw a sharp decline in overall productivity. These statistics are quite alarming and raises the question, "Is technology the root cause of the productivity drop in the last decade?"
Some business owners think that banning the use of technology in the workplace is one way to increase employee focus and productivity. However, by establishing clear-cut policies and exercising a little discipline, the same technology can help simplify specific tasks that will allow your employees to be more productive.
Technology can be both a blessing and a curse for your business. By utilizing the right applications and devices, technology can greatly increase employee productivity. Review your operations and processes, and identify areas where a boost in productivity is needed. From there, you can search for technology tools or applications that can help you fill those gaps.
This article will explain how you can take advantage of the latest devices and applications to push your business forward.
#1 Implement automation tools
Automating redundant and simple tasks is a good way of making use of modern technology. Focus on applications that can automate responding to emails, scheduling, and creating contact lists. You should also look into getting tools that can digitize manual processes such as making lists.
#2 Manage credentials effectively
Passwords are being replaced by biometrics as a more secure method of authentication. Unfortunately, not every application can provide an intuitive and seamless way for users to securely access their accounts. So, until that time comes, password management should be a top priority. Tools like HYPR and 1Password are ideal applications for managing your credentials across multiple devices.
#3 Utilize web browser extensions
Everyone wants to get more work done in less time, and an excellent way to do this is to add all the tools your employees use to a web browser. Adding web extensions allows your workers to access their tools more quickly, which helps increase their productivity.
#4 Improve time management
Many people cannot see the usefulness of calendars, making it one of the most underutilized productivity tools. Calendars can help your employees maximize their day and keep them productive. These help them prioritize tasks and keep them on track, especially when they have to meet hard deadlines.
#5 Enhance your current tech
Some technologies are designed to optimize what you already have. For example, Boomerang is a software development company that creates email productivity software for Gmail and Outlook. Their software comes with an inbox pause feature that lets you put any new messages on hold. They won't appear in your inbox until you're ready to read them. It also comes with other features that let you manage your email more efficiently.
#6 Set goals and reminders
Setting goals is a good way for you to stay focused and productive. Smartphones and other devices have built-in features that let you set goals and reminders to keep you on top of your game. Keep daily, weekly, and monthly reminders to track your goals and revisit anything you may have missed.
When used correctly, technology is a great tool to push your business forward. If you need help with what tech your company can benefit from, a managed IT services provider (MSP) like Complete Document Solutions can help you. Our IT specialists will sit with you and recommend which technology can streamline your operations to optimize employee productivity. If you want to know more about how your business can benefit from our services, download our free eBook today.
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