Before computer services, business administration used to be an incredibly time-consuming task, especially for entrepreneurs and small businesses. It is hard to imagine how modern businesses would operate without the business administration software that is now ubiquitous in the office place. From desktop publishing and printers to broadband and ecommerce, technology has revolutionised the way we do business.
Here we shall take a look at some of the most important business support systems that are available now:
Move to the cloud
There are several business practices that can be streamlined by the use of new technologies that are available on the cloud.
The cloud is a term that covers a wide range of computer services that are available over the internet. It is changing business practices today in much the same way that IBM and Microsoft changed businesses during the 1980s and 1990s.
Cloud ERP
One of the most powerful tools is cloud based ERP, which provides businesses with state-of-the-art business data analysis and reporting software without the need to install and manage in-house ERP computer servers.
Enterprise resource planning is an advanced business support system that is designed to collect data from every part of a business so that it can be analysed and reports made. ERP was originally developed to make production lines more efficient, and it was soon realised that the software could also improve productivity in all types of business.
Early forms of ERP required a relatively large investment in new IT resources to allow systems to run, but cloud based ERP systems are accessed via a normal web browser over the internet; no new hardware or software is required. In fact, ERP reports are produced in a format that can be accessed on tablets and smartphones.
Today, ERP is used to help streamline accounting functions, customer services, design, collaboration and more traditional industries such as retail and production. Modular ERP systems can easily be upgraded and enhanced to meet business requirements.
Customer portals
Almost every business now has a website, but how many are actively serving their customers? The latest advancement in customer services is customer portals that are installed on your website but managed on the cloud.
As with cloud ERP, the customer portal software is managed by a third party IT provider. A good customer portal can help improve customer satisfaction and increase the likeliness of repeat business. Because the system is largely automated, customers can connect with your business 24/7.
Cloud based filing and email
Every business produces a huge amount of documentation and much of this needs to be archived safely and accessible. One of the easiest ways to achieve this is to start using Google’s email service, Gmail, and their file storage solution, Google Drive. This will allow you to save every digital file to the cloud and then access from any location. You can also share documents with colleagues, suppliers and clients without the need to duplicate them via email. Also, if you use Gmail, every document that you receive is automatically stored in the Gmail cloud storage, and you also have the opportunity to save a copy in your Google Drive for easier sharing, editing and viewing.
The cloud is more than just an IT catchword, it is providing businesses with new ways to streamline services and improve efficiencies. Ultimately, when the cloud is used effectively it is helping businesses to become more successful.