If you are a business owner, or a key decision-maker within your organisation, then the question “should I automate my business?” might sound like a no brainer. But many businesses still operate by using the same processes they have employed for years, living by the adage “if it isn’t broken, then why fix it!” Whilst this age-old trope may be relevant for certain situations, it definitely does not apply to running a successful business. We live in a world that is becoming ever increasingly automated, with businesses constantly adapting to make full use of new technologies. Software, such as customized dashboards, are continuously being developed to streamline processes across all areas of a business, including sales, marketing, account management, finance, human resources, I.T and project management, to improve the overall productivity of an organisation.
Businesses that do not keep up with the times are more likely to suffer in the long run, potentially risking being left behind by their competitors. So the question “should I automate my business?”, should become less of a question and more of a statement of intent.
So, for anyone still asking “should I automate my business?”, here are 3 great reasons why business automation will add value to your company.
Improve business productivity (and therefore increase revenue)
One of the biggest drains on a company’s resources is the time lost by employees performing the routine tasks that the organisation deems to be necessary to keep the business running smoothly. And as we all know, in the business world, time means money. A study of 2,040 employees from the UK showed that a massive 60% of them said that they spend at least half of a working day every single week performing tasks that they see as a time-waster in their office. 38% believed there was too much admin, while 24% felt the technology used in the office actively slowed a team’s ability to perform. By automating these processes you can free up valuable time for your employees to be better used in other areas of your business. A better question than “should I automate my business?” should be “will I save money by automating my business?” Effective and efficient automation software, as well as bespoke features such as customized dashboards, can reduce the time it takes employees to complete tasks across the board, therefore minimising the cost of operations, which in turn will lead to increased profit margins.
Lessen the margin for human error
It is a fact of life that as humans we sometimes err. When completing repetitive tasks that require a high level of concentration it is easy to let something slip. This is even more true when it comes to something like manually entering data into specific software. And when you add multiple users into the mix, all adding the same data into different software or at different points or locations, then the chance of human error increases. What could begin as a simple error could escalate into something more serious, with consequences that could cost your business both time and money. A fully automated system that corresponds with all software used by your business will remove the human error factor, whilst keeping all of your data entry points in sync. Digital Teams are experts in creating bespoke software systems that will collate all of your critical company data in one application, which will not only increase productivity across your business but also lessen the margin of human error.
Gain a competitive advantage
In the business world, it is survival of the fittest. The nature of our capitalist economy encourages both growth and healthy competition. Bearing this in mind, can your business afford to give your competitors any kind of edge, especially where it can be avoided? Staying competitive, and gaining a competitive advantage over your direct competitors will only help in making your business successful. Effective business automation is one of the simplest ways to gain a competitive advantage over your competitors. A recent survey by The Economist Intelligence Unit showed that over 90% of organisations use technology to help automate their business processes. Can you afford to be in the remaining 10%?
So, should I automate my business?
It is safe to say that automation platforms are here to stay, so when asking “should I automate my business?”, the answer should be not if, but when. But how? Fortunately, Digital Teams have extensive experience in working with clients to design and build bespoke applications that are customised to your business requirements. Our expert team can introduce business automation software that will streamline your business, ensuring you do not fall into that dreaded 10%. Contact us today to learn more about how automating your business will benefit you.