Whether you are operating a start-up business, or one that has been around for a while, technology helps to make things operate smoothly and efficiently. So how can you be sure that you’re taking advantage of the best technology out there? Well here’s a look at some of the top technology trends in 2017 for businesses.
Telephone Technology
If you want to stay ahead of your competitors, you need to look into telephone technology and make a start on implementing it in your business. Virtual hosted VoIP and PBX systems are a must have for small and medium sized businesses as they provide services such as incoming call answering and forwarding services, meaning you can answer calls in the field without needing to be tied to your office, audio conferring and video meeting facilities, and customer care features.
Not every business will require all of the leading features, however, so it’s worth checking out virtual PBX reviews and finding a provider who offers what you need. Whichever option you choose, you will not only save on the costs of a traditional telephone service, but you’ll also be able to leave the office without fear of missing a call.
Conference Camera – Cut Out Business Travel
For many businesses nowadays, the idea of a “travel budget” is odd and really not necessary thanks to a variety of high tech conference cameras that can be used. These cameras offer a large cost saving for businesses, as now there is no need to travel to meetings.
Videoconferencing isn’t just the way of the future anymore it’s the current way of conducting business. While you may have originally used the webcam that came standard in your computer, now you can purchase stand-alone conference cameras, which allow more people to be captured on the screen at once. As well they use HD quality so you don’t have to worry about poor quality picture and sound.
If you have a number of board rooms or meeting rooms, you can purchase a camera for each room. This makes them all “conference ready”.
Move Away from Desktops and Transition to Laptops
Another trend in businesses of all sizes is the move away from desktop computers and opting for laptops instead. There are all kinds of reasons laptops are making the move towards the computer of choice, with convenience topping the list. Employees can move about the office with their computer, attend meetings, and even work from home if the business allows.
With that said, the Dell XPS 13 has long since been a favorite in this area and comes in a variety of sizes. Of course, if you’re looking for something more high tech, you won’t find a shortage of laptops available. Today they are able to stand up to and even in some cases, surpass what a traditional desktop has to offer.
Software that Takes a Collaborative Approach
Here’s a trend that has been building in popularity over the past couple of years. Collaborative software allows all the key components to be found in one spot so that working as a team is possible. This means employees can access their emails, cloud storage, social media, and instant messaging in one. It helps with organization, it saves time, and it keeps information flowing smoothly.
There are a number of different software platforms worth investigating to ensure you find one that fits the needs of your business.
Staying on Trend
Each of these technology offerings is meant to make your business operate smoothly and efficiently. It could be that your office could benefit from them all, or maybe just one of these top trends. And of course, this is just the tip of the iceberg, as there are plenty of new and exciting launches set to happen in 2017.
Image credit: CC by Jaysin Trevino
