When discussing how to increase productivity within your company, don’t neglect the basics of having updated and effective technology. It seems like a minute detail and unimportant in comparison to organization, motivation, and communication strategies, however, can be just as debilitating as a cluttered desk or unorganized processes.
There are several technologies that can significantly increase productivity in the workplace and improve employee performance. One important feature to pay attention to when considering a new program or software is, does it have a mobile application? With an increase of people working from home, their car, or on the road when traveling, this is essential to look at.
Notice the difference between old versions of programs and new versions. Applications like Adobe DC and Office 365 are updated with interesting features that allow editing and manipulating abilities that old versions don’t have. Another bonus (for those of you maintaining your company’s licenses) is that these programs are all online based so you have a current and accurate record of licenses in case you ever get audited. No more disks! They also allow you to have the program on more than one computer (office and home) but cannot be used simultaneously to prevent licensing issues.
Another thing to consider is your phone system. Moving to a more remote-friendly system could be extremely enhancing to your company’s productivity. Systems like ShoreTel allow you to have an application on your mobile phone that lets you make calls like you are in the office, as well as forward calls from your desk phone to your cell phone. VOIP phones also have the capability to work at employee’s homes since they run through the internet.
It is important to analyze and utilize different hardware and software solutions that can improve employee productivity. Look at how old the computers, printers, and phones are in your office. If it takes 30 minutes for an employee’s computer to boot up, it may be time to upgrade. As your company makes its budget for 2018, be sure to allot some of it to your IT department. Maintaining current and effective technology in the workplace can keep your company’s productivity on track for success in the future.
