Even when it is not readily apparent, technology is at the heart of many business operations. Technology is omnipresent in the world of business, from digital tools to help with communication to those which assist organisations in manufacturing, selling and promoting goods and services. Business technology is a broad term that covers a wide range of tools. To best use them for your business, you need to know what it means and how they work together.
What is Business Technology?
Business technology is a term that encompasses the integration and application of information technology in business operations. It’s more than just having an IT department. This is the integration of technology into the business context. It includes:
- Management practices
- Organisational structure
- You can also find out more about
- Technology governance
All of these tools are designed to optimize the use and integration of technology in your business for competitive advantage.
Business technology is growing.
Information technology has evolved to be a true asset in streamlining and improving business processes, as well as enabling businesses.
- Internal and external communication flows
- The best processes are those that improve operations rather than slow them down
- Systems that support people, processes and practices
- Continuous improvement of efficiency and effectiveness across the entire organisation
- Customer service, compliance and quality activities
- Knowledge management and Intellectual Property Security
Business technology has grown to the point that IT departments must now work with business functions in order to meet the demands for technology across all areas of an organization in order to deliver real business value and growth.
Related: Why is Business Analytics so Important for Success?
Integrating Business Technology within Your Organisation
Understanding the impact of technology on your business starts with an integrated approach. The strategy helps you to define your management practices, organisational structure and how you will use technology to optimize your operation. It also outlines the infrastructure and tools that you will deploy. The strategy also details the steps that you will take to secure and govern the use of data and technology to maximise your investment.
By adopting a strategic business technology approach, you can fully leverage your technology and scale it to your advantage over your competitors. This will enable your business to grow.
Business technology examples
Computer and Mobile Devices
Computers have enabled the consumption of information technology in all kinds of businesses since mainframes were replaced many years ago by PCs and Macs.
Your computer gives you the tools to run your business, whether you are sending emails, creating presentations and proposals, analysing financial data, entering information into databases, or searching the internet.
Desktop computers have been a mainstay for decades, but in recent years, they’ve become less popular as mobile and more powerful options have emerged. In many businesses and for personal use, laptops, tablets, and smartphones are the most popular hardware.
Internet-based telephone systems
The standard phone technology relied on the Private Branch Exchange for analogue voice calls over copper or optical fibre cables. IP PBX technology, such as 3CX utilise Voice over Internet Protocol. This has revolutionised communication by allowing audio, instant messaging, and video.
Software as a Service
Software as a Service (SaaS), or software-as-a-service, has revolutionized the way businesses use their software. Software as a service (SaaS) has revolutionized the way businesses use software. No more on-premise installation of software, no longer time-consuming maintenance and upgrades requiring significant resources. Software that is cloud-based and subscription-based allows you to buy the access you require, then scale your business as it grows.
SaaS is used by many businesses to provide a variety of services, including:
- Accounting and payroll software – MYOB
- Office 365 – Productivity Tools
- Customer Relationship Management Systems – Hubspot Infusionsoft Salesforce Active Campaign
- IT help desk ticketing systems – Zendesk
- Microsoft Teams and Microsoft SharePoint are collaboration tools.
- Knowledge management and storage: OneDrive, Dropbox, Google Drive
- Project management – MS Project, Halo PSA, Asana
Sales and marketing
Digital tools have transformed the sales and marketing functions. They enable everything from online marketing, to cashless payment and ecommerce stores. Business technology allows the world to see what your company has to offer. This is done through social media, websites and other communication channels.
Internet of Things
Internet of Things (IoT), also known as the Internet of Things, is a term that refers to devices connected via internet and a variety of technologies. The devices could be anything, from speakers and shipping labels to cars and airplanes. They might also include smart sensors and lightbulbs as well as security systems and heavy industrial machinery. All of these items communicate with the internet, and collect and monitor data about behaviour, processes and other conditions. IoT devices are able to use data collected to improve or correct their systems.
Optimize your business technology
Business technology refers to the digital tools used by businesses for growth, integration and optimisation of their use of technology. A whole-of business strategic approach will allow your organisation to integrate and leverage all the technology tools it has available. Advice and support from information technology professionals will help your business achieve success, growth, and competitive advantage. SouthEast IT can help your business get the most out of its technology. We offer a variety of managed services, IT solutions, and expert IT consulting services. We’re here to assist you. Call us now to learn more.
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