Technological advancements in the 21st century have been truly monumental, so much so that business will never be the same again. The tech systems and software we use are rapidly evolving so fast that it’s hard to fathom the progress we’ve made in such a short amount of time.
The days of dial-up internet and faxing seem light years ago. Even industry-specific technologies have been pioneered to simplify and improve operations. For example, the vehicle hire industry now uses automated mobile processes to streamline fleet operations.
So what aspects of the business have changed the most as a whole? What changes in the workplace are the most palpable? There’s certainly a huge variety of ways technological advancements have made business operations faster, stronger, and more efficient, so let’s take a look!
1. We can access documents anywhere with cloud technology
Cloud technology has revolutionized how and where we can access our work documents and files. Agile remote working has never been so easy and streamlined. With cloud computing systems like Google Drive and easy remote logins into our office systems, the office can now be brought into our homes. In fact, we can have access from anywhere if we have the internet. Which is pretty much everywhere now!
2. We can direct message using social apps
With remote working on the rise, communication between teams and individuals has changed too. We no longer have to pick up the phone for quick queries, instead we have instant messaging apps like Slack or Microsoft Teams to send a quick message. Some industry minds are concerned we’re losing valuable human connection, but you cannot deny how handy social apps are for keeping in touch with colleagues.
3. We use AI to understand more about our customers
Businesses now use AI for a range of different purposes, but the standout use is its efficiency in helping us understand more about our customers. Companies now use AI in their strategies to collect big data and learn more about who their audience is and how best to reach them.
4. We now sell more on eCommerce sites
The eCommerce industry has boomed in the last few years, especially since COVID forced retail stores to temporarily close and customers to shop online. The majority of companies now have some sort of eCommerce platform for customers to browse and purchase products, and if they don’t, a huge opportunity is being missed out on.
5. We’ve adapted to become more mobile-friendly
eCommerce platforms have also adapted to become more mobile-friendly too. Why? Because a huge percentage of customers are visiting sites via their smart devices. Making sure your website and digital services have a great mobile UX has never been so important. And modern platforms such as WooCommerce and Shopify have changed the game of building your own custom eCommerce site.
6. We’re now more secure with cybersecurity systems
The internet was once a hotbed for cybercrime, but thankfully Cybersecurity has come a really long way in protecting businesses from fraud and cyber-attacks. It’s now absolutely imperative for businesses who store huge amounts of data to have encryption systems in place. Data breaches are a serious concern, especially when there’s lots of personal data and information at stake.
