Technology is changing the way we do business on a daily basis. But what larger trends are on the horizon, and what can companies do to prepare? Here are five key trends to future-proof your business.
AUTOMATION
Machines could take over 20 million jobs by 2030, so know how this will affect your industry, and your business. More and more, machines and AI software are being used to solve a wide variety of problems and perform many different tasks.
This isn’t just about robots, either; ERP and CRM systems are already boosting productivity and helping businesses save costs by automating tasks and functions.
It’s important to know precisely where your business could benefit from automating tasks, but it’s also important to involve your employees in this process. Since they are closest to their work, they will be an invaluable resource in helping to determine what systems will help them do their best work. In some cases, you may even need to customize a system to suit the unique needs of your business, but this can come with extra time, training, and cost. Think about what solutions will help you more in the long-term.
CLOUD COMPUTING
The cloud revolutionized so much of how the world does business: from security and storage, to enabling workers the ability to work from all over the world. Virtual machines within the cloud also continue to maximize productivity for data-driven corporations.
But with all that flexibility, there is increased risk. Cybersecurity is evolving at a faster rate than ever, and companies will need to look at strategies to protect their data as it’s accessed outside of corporate boundaries.
THE INTERNET OF THINGS
The Internet of Things isn’t just for your home. Smart offices are helping employees collaborate together from all over the world, manage assets, and keep everyone comfortable with adjustable light and climate. Meetings are easier to manage when booking a room, keeping a room past booked times, calling up previous notes, and video conferencing at the push of a button (or verbal command), for example.
Speaking of verbal commands, Voice Control tech is becoming increasingly common. We speak faster than we type, so voice assistants are becoming productivity tools for an optimized workflow.
Look at what technologies are out there, and how they can align with your current processes to increase efficiency and eliminate busy work.
VR AND AR
They’re not just for games anymore; Virtual and Augmented reality are quickly developing the power to revolutionize the way we work.
Virtual Reality has incredible training potential; from exposing employees to simulated workplace problems, to taking courses on developing soft skills in the workplace. Virtual reality could also allow remote employees to “come to work” through a simulated environment. Augmented reality could help employees by providing a layer of vision over their office to check meeting room availability, creating video walls, look for a power socket, and more.
EMPLOYEE EXPERIENCE
With unemployment at continually low numbers, companies are increasingly hunting and competing for top talent. To that end, ensuring a comfortable, healthy work environment, along with other benefits, is crucial to keeping retention high, and training costs low.
Some businesses allow for remote or flexible work by structuring “flexible offices” and letting employees manage their own schedules. For those offices that need full time staff, ergonomic solutions and wellness plans help to keep employees engaged, happy, and healthy.
Future-proof your business for 2020
2020 is sure to bring many more advancements in enterprise-level technology, allowing businesses to be better than ever. By taking advantage of emerging trends, buying tech that helps future-proof your business, and staying agile, companies give themselves the opportunity to truly succeed.
