Increase efficiency to maximise your profit

Using technology to improve efficiency

Guide

Technology can help you improve the way your staff carry out tasks. It can either speed up existing processes or allow new, more flexible ways of carrying out the job.

Assess your use of technology

In order to work out the best technology for your needs, you should assess your current systems against your requirements. Think about what inefficiencies may exist in your operations and how you can:

capture relevant information, such as customer details, in the most simple, time-efficient way
manage your documents to ensure that information is dealt with in a logical workflow
avoid duplication - eg using handwritten timesheets that then need to be manually inputted onto a PC
address technological obstacles - eg simplifying a complex helpdesk process to make it easier to resolve IT problems

There are nine fundamental technologies that drive the digital transformation of modern-day businesses. These are known under the umbrella of Industry 4.0.

Find out about Industry 4.0: What it means for your business and discover what different Industry 4.0 technologies can do for your business.

Find the best technology solution

The best solution for your business will depend greatly on your industry. Research what your competitors or other companies in your industry are using and consider consumer technologies that are widely available as these may be cheaper if you only have a small number of staff.

For example, you could consider:

outsourcing IT systems or using off-the-shelf packages instead of customised business versions
using VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) or internet calls to replace mobile calls - see advantages and disadvantages of VoIP
creating a frequently asked questions (FAQs) section on your website to reduce unnecessary customer enquiries
automating processes to save your staff time, including utilising computer telephony integration
introducing cloud computing, mobile technology and computer networking to improve IT efficiency

When you find the right technology solution for your business, it is important to consider its security and take steps to manage cyber security risks.