Using desktop computers might have been the way to go just a few short years ago, but mobile has recently usurped it as the leading way for people to consume media. In fact, in 2016, more users accessed the Internet via a mobile device as opposed to a desktop for the very first time. So, with such statistics in mind, it should come as no surprise that mobile technology is also having a large impact on how we do business. If you currently operate a company but make limited use of such technology at present, read on for why you should also be embracing mobile and benefiting from it as a result.
It allows growth for those with limited resources. When it comes to scaling (and even starting) a business, mobile technology has made this far easier and more accessible to the masses. This is partly down to cloud-based tools. Thanks to such resources, you no longer need to purchase or maintain expensive technology to grow your online presence for example. Plus, if you experience a dreaded slow patch for your business, using cloud allows you to scale back seamlessly if needed. On the flipside, it also delivers the opportunity to ramp up your needs within an instant when necessary.
Also, don’t disregard mobile payments as the main way for businesses to grow at a rapid rate. The likes of PayPal and Slack supply both convenience and ease of use.
It provides flexibility
Now, while previous topics have already touched upon the flexibility provided by mobile, this section will focus on how it can make things so much more comfortable for your employees. Think about it: if they have access to all of their files, are always on-hand to communicate when needed, and their output won’t be affected, why should an employee be mandated to stay cooped up in an office all the time? After all, research has reported that 91% of employees feel more productive when working remotely as opposed to being in-house. So thanks to mobile technology, you can make your employees happier and also more productive at the same time.
It combines all small items into one package
Although this can often be overlooked, mobiles also utilise many small features that we often take for granted in the business world. For example, with a smartphone you no longer need a physical calendar to check what is on for today’s agenda – you just simply have to input all that info onto your device. Calendars are not the only thing becoming obsolete in the office either. A calculator app means you can throw away your standard calculator and abacus, while the Rolodex’s demise also leads to it being an item of trash.
It removes the need for paperwork
In the large majority of cases, paperwork can become a thing of the past for businesses that utilise mobile technology. Just take a second to think about it: if you’re sending documents virtually over the cloud, is there any need to print those out and produce a physical form of them to employees?
The answer, by and large, is a big fat ‘no’.
That’s right; you can leave those spreadsheets and notes in their digital form. Even documents that require official authentication – such as an agreement or contract – don’t need to receive the printing treatment. That’s because you can use a mobile-based eSignature to sign off on those documents.
While not needing to use your pen to sign things anymore is a benefit, a paperless world for your business also carries plenty of other advantages. Not only is it much better for the environment, but it will also save time and money to an extent – although more on that point with the following topic.
It saves both money and time
If the aforementioned points haven’t signalled it enough for you, going mobile helps with both your budget and time. Plus considering time is money, this means positive things for your business in terms of its bank balance. It is also important to note that going mobile allows you to focus on your core business activities. Forget about spending extensive resources on side aspects such as calculating your finances and updating your tech with the latest firmware. Now you can place a greater emphasis on what you do best, and also push towards expanding and growing your company at a faster pace as a result.
It supplies new ways to market
By that, we primarily mean using your own app to promote your goods and services. At least initially, you might be thinking how this is counterintuitive to the last topic of discussion. After all, surely the creation of an app would invoke the need for a sizeable chunk of cash and time? Well, to answer that question, yes it does (for the most part). Yet, that is only looking at the short-term picture. If you craft an app that is well-designed and filled with relevant content for your intended audience, it could result in some serious traction for your business.
That’s because you shouldn’t underestimate how much various apps are used in daily life on the standard. On mobile devices, for example, their usage far outweighs that of people looking to use a web browser. You have an app, you stay better connected with the audience you already possess, and you open yourself up to a potentially larger audience – especially if the app begins ranking high on those app store charts.
Also, make a note of producing a website that is optimised for mobile. Web browsers might not be used that much on mobile on the whole, but you want to ensure you’re best prepared for people that do visit your site via their smartphones/tablets. Landing on your usual website – i.e. the one that is set-up for desktops – might discourage visitors from pursuing with their initial enquiries. Stay professional, create a mobile-optimized website, and feature a slick interface that is easy to navigate.
