The right technology can make running your business a breeze, but it can also create some challenges too. Some technology isn’t exactly intuitive, while others may provide you with their primary service, leaving you unaware that additional services are available.
You don’t want to spend money on costly technological systems and not get the most out of what you’re paying for! No matter what kind of technology you have in the office, the tips on this list will make sure you get the most out of every system you use.
1. Sell Your Used Network Equipment
Technology changes fast, but so does your business. You may purchase network equipment thinking it will serve your company for years to come, only to experience an explosion of business, leaving you with networking equipment that can no longer serve your operations.
Instead of disposing of that equipment and dishing out the money to have it replaced, consider selling your network equipment. There are companies that specialize in purchasing used network equipment, and you’ll be surprised to learn that you’ll recoup a lot of the initial cost of the system.
Have other electronics that you aren’t using? Consider selling them too! Although you won’t recoup as much of the costs as you will selling your network equipment, it can help fund the next round of technology purchases.
2. Retrain Employees Every Time Tech Changes in the Office
Training is extremely important in the office. It ensures everyone is on the same page when it comes to culture, processes, and more, but it is essential if you’re dealing with changes in technology. That means training employees when you get new technology in the office, but it also means retraining employees when important updates are made to your existing technology systems.
The trouble is, learning about technology isn’t how most employees want to spend their time, and learning new technology can be difficult. It’s important for employers to help everyone adapt to new technology through training, practice, and being kind about mistakes while everyone is still learning.
3. Implement Automation Whenever Possible
Technology is supposed to make life easier. Unfortunately, it can also do the opposite. If you don’t learn the programs you’re using, you could find yourself with more work to do.
Don’t let the technology in your office take over your day. Instead, dig into the software and technology you already have to see what can be automated, and you’ll enjoy lasting benefits.
A few automation ideas include:
- Scheduling meetings, which includes informing employees of the next meeting.
- Submitting vacation time.
- Paying bills and your employees.
- Prescripted email responses.
You may also be able to reduce the time you spend reordering some supplies with your vendors. For example, did you know some printers can contact suppliers automatically when it’s time to order new ink or new equipment? You’ll never have to worry about running out of ink ever again!
4. Use Two Monitors
You probably have some impressive technology in the office, but is it being fully utilized? For example, computers are a must, but what’s the point of a fast internet connection if employees have to spend time flipping between windows on the desktop?
You can better utilize fast computers and internet connections by providing everyone with a dual monitor system. Employees can view multiple processes at the same time, and there’s plenty of room on both screens to keep an email account or a chat window open for faster communication with coworkers and customers.
5. Test Your Backup Systems
One of the biggest mistakes you can make with the tech in your office is not testing your backup systems. Although you have many other things that require your attention, nothing compares to the devastation of lost information because your systems crashed and your backup system wasn’t working properly.
Testing also gives you and your team the chance to practice how to restore your systems. When you know what to do in order to restore a file, an application, and your server, you can restore them more quickly, reducing downtime that can cost your business some serious cash.
The first step to getting the most out of the technology in your office is to choose the right technology to begin with, but don’t think your job is done once it’s installed and ready to go. If you want to get the most out of your technology, make sure you follow these tips, and you’ll save both time and money in the process!
