It’s dubious whether a single article detailing business operations can skip detailing new tech.

The reason why this topic is paramount lies in multiple circumstances and has a strong backing in trends.

Seriously, when was the last time you saw a youngster reading a physical book while commuting?

Usually, they’re glued to their mobile phones. The trend is viral and doesn’t apply only to young generations. That, in itself, should be an answer enough to tell you why every business that means business absolutely must deploy new tech.

In this article, we’ll discuss new tech that will help your employees perform better and — why not? — feel better. A happy workforce is engaged and motivated, which is always good news.

Let’s get started!

Choosing the Right Tools

Note the adjective above — the tools you pick need to be “right.” This is becoming increasingly difficult as new apps and tools are threatening to drown humans in a stream of endless (and, ofttimes, pointless) tasks.

The best advice in this regard would be — don’t choose apps that are being forced down your throat! There’s always an alternative!

Contrary to popular belief, the apps that are being hyped aren’t necessarily the best ones. Hence, the first tip would be: to research the offer.

Simplified, there are only three types of apps and tools out there: useless, hyped expensive apps, professional expensive apps, and free apps (with or without a pro option).

Depending on your specific business needs, a combination of apps from these three categories may be preferable to sticking to trending apps.

Some ideas are listed below.

Time-Tracking

Clocking in for work is one of the repetitive processes that take too much time and annoy too many people.

Time-tracking apps may simplify this cumbersome process.

Thankfully, there are multiple options to choose from, including:

• Standalone time-tracking apps
• Apps that are integral to project management software
• Apps integrated with an accounting system
• Automatic time-tracking apps
• Real-time monitoring apps
• Clock in and out apps
• Location-based apps
• Enterprise apps

Each of these has its benefits and shortcomings, so, as mentioned above, perform research!

Shipping and Deliveries

Next on the agenda is software for delivery management.

Shipping and deliveries are indeed among the most complex processes, even for businesses operating locally. For businesses targeting international clients, the issue becomes even more complicated.

That’s why using various apps to simplify this process is crucial. However, keep in mind that regardless of the effort you put in, some problems will arise all the same. There are many factors influenced by third parties, so the best solution is to prepare for the unexpected by planning well ahead.

Here’s a sample checklist:

• Plan well ahead for busy seasons (holidays and similar)
• Prioritize time-sensitive shipments
• Check out which of your carriers have the fewest delays and put focus on them
• Use digital freight software that can forecast delivery times
• Track your containers’ delivery status digitally so that you can address potential problems in a timely manner

Next on, compare shipping services. Measure them against various parameters (not only price!) as follows:

• Delivery service type (package size, number of packages, etc.)
• Delivery speed
• Security (pay attention to security policies)
• Range of deliveries (in case you’re sending oversized packages)
• Delivery costs (double-check before sending!)
• Professional experience (prioritize professional delivery services)

Finally, create detailed shipping labels. A typical example includes:

• Recipients name and delivery address
• Company info
• Package weight
• A handle with care warning for fragile orders

Finally, offer real-time delivery tracking to ensure the shipping process is going smoothly.

Team Support

People skills and management skills are invaluable. The focus on training personnel is not novel but in these modern times, businesses can go one step beyond and use new tech to create a perfect experience for everyone involved.

Performance management software makes the experience of work more rewarding and helps with local and international regulatory compliance.

Look up the alternatives as there are numerous perks to consider.

Customer Service

Last but not least, businesses must keep in touch with customers.

Frontline workers are in dire need of help as these people often lack new tech their colleagues from different departments use habitually, so make sure to not overlook their needs!

Automation for contact centers is a good start. Contact center automation can help with a range of processes, including but not limited to:

• Automating processes
• Empowering employees
• Connecting with customers
• Empowering improvement

The best choice here is software that delivers unified RPA and conversational AI capabilities. These tools are capable of optimizing processes and streamlining procedures in a short span of time, so there.

Other ideas include voice-over Internet Protocols (VoIP), Interactive voice response (IVR) systems, and automated call distribution (ACD) systems.

Key Takeaways

And there you have it — a little something for everyone that will boost your business operations long-term. Other ideas may come to mind and they’re welcome to. Consider this article as an inspiration to help you brainstorm other ideas.