Whether businesses like to admit it, digital technology has transformed business activities since it began to trickle into the marketplace. Many of us couldn’t imagine life without technology, and many in the workforce haven’t experienced life without it.
As the new year is upon us, many look forward to the new technologies being launched and how we can implement them. Let’s also take this opportunity to cast our minds back and understand how digital technology has transformed business activities. We can then use that understanding to inform future business decisions in regards to digital technology.
How businesses previously functioned without technology
Technology has become commonplace within businesses, however this hasn’t always been the case. Before laptops and computers many businesses relied on manual processes. People were calculators, the mail room revolved around sending handwritten letters en masse.
At one point typewriters were considered the peak of technology within the office. Without technology as we know it today, processes within the business were arduous. Not only did processes take longer, they also put more pressure on people physically and mentally in many ways.
The businesses still standing are the ones that have evolved and accepted technology within the workplace. Many of those were also driving forces behind many of the commonplace tech we see today.
How businesses currently function with technology
Businesses rely on technology more so than ever before. It is used to advance services as well as assist with processes that can be automated.
Automation within businesses is the key factor that has helped businesses evolve. Automating processes frees up valuable resources and manpower which can be used more efficiently in other areas of the business.
Another way businesses function with technology is integrating digital software for their employees to use. From cloud computing to CRM systems and more. Most work is completed on some form of technological process. Sales and marketing revolve around digital software and websites, just as accounting software is how businesses settle finances. Businesses are built on technology.
How will businesses evolve with new technologies?
How businesses evolve with new technologies will depend on what those businesses are willing to do. If you as a business owner value output, then you will utilise as many automation processes as possible. These automation systems will, in theory, help you increase the volume of work.
Volume might not be the best solution for many businesses, and while increased output is good on paper, it might cause more problems. This is where businesses will look to using technology to increase their value. Using technology to add depth to their services, even if that takes longer. Many people value quality over quantity after all.
With many social and economical issues in the world currently; we may see businesses evolve to tackle these challenges. Looking at how technology can reduce their carbon footprint for example. Or how they can change their working processes to become more environmentally friendly.
What is clear over the years, as technology advances and evolves; the businesses who embrace and adopt the changes thrive. Those who remain fixed in their way of thinking and working (looking at you blockbuster) ultimately commit business suicide.
Read more in our recent blog about the scope of digital technology and transformation in 2023.
The key to all technology and digital processes is to adopt the ones that work for you. Consider your business goals, and what you are looking to achieve within your industry. Working with a digital transformation consultant can help you identify key processes that can be streamlined with digital software.
Here at Tratech we take a holistic approach, this means we consider what you want as a business, and what will work best for you. There is no one size fits all in terms of technology. Speak with our consultants to see how we can help transform your business.
