In recent years, emerging technologies designed for remote work have become more relevant than ever. As technology is ever-evolving and changing at the speed of light, staying informed about the latest technologies that can enhance cybersecurity, allow for remote connections, and even incorporate artificial intelligence is essential for a business owner.
Understanding and keeping up with the latest technologies redefining the modern workplace is imperative to remain successful in any market or industry today, online or off.
Remote Technologies and Remote Work Solutions
In the past decade alone, remote work has skyrocketed, especially with the encounter of a global pandemic. Key technologies driving remote work include cloud computing, video conferencing tools, and project management software. Becoming familiar with your options as a business owner can ensure your organization’s infrastructure remains productive and conducive to your goals.
- Cloud Computing: Cloud platforms remove the need for on-site servers and server management, which can quickly add to costs and manual labor demands. Cloud platforms provide access to information, sales, and even the backend of your e-commerce store remotely. Cloud computing also makes collaboration in real-time much more accessible from any location.
- Video Tools: Video conferencing tools, such as Zoom, Google Meet, and Microsoft Teams, have also become essential components of most businesses that offer remote positions or connect virtually with partners, customers, clients, and associates.
- Management Software: Project management software, such as Slack, Trello, and Asana, helps boost team collaboration, real-time updates, and project deadlines in an instant.
Using Electronic Signature Tools
As we transition to a more digital world, business owners utilize tools that help reduce paper waste while streamlining operations. An electronic signature solution is one tool to consider if you conduct business remotely or require customers and clients to sign contractual agreements. Electronic signatures are the future of document management for the following reasons:
- Saving Time: Electronic signatures do not require physical signatures, which can save time when printing, faxing, or even mailing documents back and forth between customers and clients.
- Security Enhancement: Electronic signature tools utilize data encryption solutions to preserve and protect the authenticity of your agreements and contracts. This will also protect against potential tampering, providing additional security and peace of mind for your customers and clients.
- Customer Experience: The accessibility of electronically signing a contract or agreement can improve the experience of your customers and clients.
- Productivity: Using automated document workflow solutions, such as electronic signature tools, is one of the best ways to reduce employees’ administrative burdens, allowing them to focus on what matters most in terms of growing their business.
Investing in a Trusted and Reliable VPN Service
Today, data encryption, privacy, and security are more important than ever. With cyberattacks, hacking attempts, and scams on the rise worldwide, using a VPN or a Virtual Private Network is encouraged whether you’re browsing the internet individually or while managing your business and its network. Notable benefits of using a VPN for your business may include:
- Increased Security: A VPN provides an encrypted connection between your organization’s network and employees, protecting sensitive information and data from breaches and potential digital hackers or thieves.
- Privacy: A VPN also hides the IP address of any user connected to the VPN service of your choice. It makes it increasingly difficult for hackers and malicious advertisers to identify users on your secured network.
- Protect Your Company’s Data: A reliable VPN service is imperative to ensure compliance by safeguarding your company’s information and customer data. Industries such as finance and healthcare must adhere to stricter compliance guidelines to avoid legal and financial issues.
AI and Automation
AI, or artificial intelligence, is becoming increasingly common in the workplace, gaming, and everyday life. Critical applications of AI and automation in the workplace currently and shortly are likely to include:
- Chatbots: Customer service AI chatbots handle inquiries and questions and can provide instant responses and support as needed. It can help save time and demands on your human agents and workers.
- Forecasting: The use of AI is optimal for data analysis and forecasting, especially when it comes to business performance, market trends, and even specific customer behaviors.
- Automation: Automation is becoming increasingly common in most industries today. From managing payroll and taxes to inventory and inquiries, reducing human error and saving time is much easier with AI tools today.
Protecting Your Business in the Digital Age With Enhanced Cybersecurity Solutions
Cybersecurity measures are a must as the digital landscape continues to grow and become more common, especially when it comes to working. Essential cybersecurity practices that must be considered by any business owner operating online today include:
- Employee Training: Cybersecurity training is imperative if you work with employees with access to sensitive information or customer data. Employees must learn to identify hacking, phishing, and other common scams related to the industry and market they represent.
- Multifactor Authentication (MFA): Incorporating multifactor authentication (MFA) solutions adds an extra layer of security to your system, requiring users to verify their identity with multiple passwords.
- Regular Updates: Regularly updating software you use, VPN programs, and security tools is crucial to protect against potential cyber threats and digital vulnerabilities, regardless of the type of business you own and operate.
Collaborative Tools
Collaboration tools are becoming increasingly indispensable in today’s workplace, especially for those working remotely or in a hybrid position. There are several notable advantages of using collaboration stools such as Google Workspace, Slack, and Microsoft Teams, such as:
- Streamline Workflow: Collaboration platforms make it easier than ever to assign specific tasks, set deadlines, and track project progress by team or individual.
- Productivity: Collaboration tools boost efficiency by allowing employees to remain connected throughout the day. It eliminates the need for long in-person meetings or lengthy email chains.
- Communication: Video conferencing and instant messaging on-demand can improve communication efforts across departments and locations. It allows for a more collaborative work environment, even if you have hundreds, if not thousands, of workers on your payroll.
The future of how we work daily is ever-evolving and shaped by emerging technologies that redefine how we communicate, interact, and even operate within our businesses. Understanding the most popular technological advances relevant to your business and industry can ensure your approach is well-positioned to thrive in the workplace today and into the future. Businesses can create a safer and more productive working environment by investing in flexible work models and prioritizing security and safety.
About the Author:
Ashley Nielsen earned a B.S. in Business Administration Marketing at Point Loma Nazarene University. She is a freelance writer who loves to share knowledge about general business, marketing, lifestyle, wellness, and financial tips. During her free time, she enjoys being outside, staying active, reading a book, or diving deep into her favorite music.
