Take advantage of Cloud Computing
What it means to your business!
It is the year 2017, and while many organizations are still managing work the way they did in 1980, several are breaking the mold with new ways of leading and working. At a time when Gallup is reporting that only 13 percent of workers are engaged, it is time for change. Factors such as the equalizing impact of social media, advanced technology providing access to information anywhere, rising number of digital natives in the workplace, and increasing competition from start-ups and organizations across the globe are causing the perfect storm for reinventing work and leadership.
The big buzz now is 'Cloud Computing'. This simply means that programs and data no longer need to be stored on your home or business computer. This leads to downsizing of computer hardware and software infrastructure along with the required support team. If you are a small business running a server you may wish to re-examine the configuration with an expert to save cost and potential downtime. In fact with cloud computing, you can host your bookkeeping data, emails and phone systems off site.
The biggest advantage of cloud computing is the availability of professional software programs (Apps) for a reasonable monthly fee, usually with no long term commitment. What used to cost thousands of dollars can be had by simply subscribing to an online service. For example, if you have field workers, they can record time and purchases for jobs for as little as $4/person per month.
It does not matter what type of business you have you can now find a software that will help you improve the way you operate. Contractors, Health services, clinics, reservation systems, inventory, assembling and many others are being developed all the time. Purchasing anything is easier and cheaper online. Internet search engines will quickly help you find these apps but make sure you read the blogs and reviews to see if it is a 'fit' for your business. Ensure they are available and work in Canada. And of course, be careful of viruses.
Your banks and credit cards are already online. You can even keep track of your accounts with your cell (mobile) device. Data can be downloaded directly into your accounting system or data from your accounting system can be uploaded to pay suppliers and payroll without cheques.
Subscribe to 'My Account' or 'My Business Account' with Revenue Canada to keep track of your HST, Payroll remittances and income tax status. Filings and remittances can be made directly from your accounting system, quickly, easily and accurately without filling any forms.
More and more software applications are communicating/interfacing with each other putting businesses on a path to exchanging data not paper.
If you are not ready to do business in the clouds you risk being left behind.