Running a business often requires us to step back and assess how things are done. Over time, we can fall into habits, but regularly asking, “Is there a better way?” is vital for keeping a business competitive. One of the best ways to keep things fresh is by modernising your processes.
Let’s look at how updating your business practices can help. First and foremost, it can improve efficiency, reduce costs, and make your operations more attractive to clients. It can even improve employee satisfaction by making their jobs easier. A modern approach also offers the potential for growth.
I remember chatting with a friend who ran a printing company. He had been using the same processes for years, but one day realised his competitors were far ahead in both technology and customer satisfaction. After upgrading his equipment and systems, not only did he reduce downtime, but his team found the work more rewarding, and client retention improved drastically. The moral? Moving with the times pays off. Just because it's always been done that way doesn't mean things don't change!
Here’s a straightforward guide to modernising your business:
1. Keep Your Technology Updated
It might sound basic, but ensuring your computers and systems are up to date is key. Outdated technology not only slows down operations but can leave you vulnerable to security threats.
- Security Risks: Many older systems lose support over time, leaving them open to viruses and other cyber risks. Keeping your software updated means you're doing all you can to prevent a costly breakdown or attack.
- New Features: The latest software often comes with new features that help you work smarter. It’s not just about staying safe; it’s about taking advantage of tools that simplify your job.
2. Modernise Your Meetings
Gone are the days when meetings required endless emails or fax machines. With modern tools, you can meet, share, and collaborate in ways that are more effective and time-saving.
- Video Conferencing: Technology like Zoom or Microsoft Teams allows you to connect face-to-face with people anywhere in the world without the need for travel.
- Collaboration Tools: Platforms such as Google Docs or Slack enable real-time collaboration. You can share files, edit together, and discuss changes all within the same system. This means less waiting around and more getting things done.
In fact, I once worked with a small team where everything had to be discussed in person, meaning people would often have to travel across the county. Did you know the county of Essex has one of the longest coastlines in the UK? No? You do now… We switched to using virtual meetings, and suddenly the amount of work we could get through in a day doubled. Less time spent commuting, more time spent being productive.
3. Invest in Eco-Friendly Technology
Sustainability isn’t just a buzzword; it's good for business. Modern technology often consumes less energy and has a smaller environmental footprint. Plus, the savings on utility bills can be substantial.
- Energy-Efficient Appliances: Make sure your office equipment, from computers to lighting, has good energy ratings. Over time, these small changes can reduce your operating costs.
- Smart Office Design: Consider implementing timers that automatically turn off lights after a period of inactivity. This not only cuts costs but shows clients and employees that you’re serious about going green.
Back when we had our transport company, we won awards and were the leading organisation when it came to greener deliveries. Technology enabled us to select the best routes, to notify clients quicker and effectively and to go almost paperless. And this was back in 2007 when most transport companies didn't have a website, so just imagine what you can do today!
4. Embrace Flexible Working
The days of the rigid 9-to-5 in the office are fading fast. Many businesses now allow remote or hybrid working, and it's a practice worth considering.
- Improved Staff Morale: Allowing your team the flexibility to work from home on occasion boosts morale. It gives employees a sense of trust and responsibility, which often translates into higher productivity.
- Lower Office Costs: Fewer people in the office means lower electricity and heating costs. Even one day a week can make a big difference.
- Mental Health Benefits: Remote working can reduce the stress of commuting and help employees achieve a better work-life balance. Happier employees are more productive, leading to better results for your business.
One company I worked with implemented a ‘flexible Fridays’ policy, allowing staff to work from home if they chose. The difference in employee happiness and productivity was immediate. With less commuting stress, the team felt more energised going into the weekend, and their work during the week improved as well. In our own business we operate flexi hours. We often start late in the day, or work a weekend and then have 3 or 4 days off. As a business owner, I know how this increases our creativity and benefits the business, so why don't more businesses utilise these things?
5. Updating Your Tech Stack
Getting the right tools for the right tasks is essential for modernising your business. Too often, businesses waste time and money by using the wrong tools or forcing systems to do jobs they weren’t designed for. This approach can lead to frustration, inefficiency, and added costs.
One common mistake is trying to patch together multiple tools with unnecessary third-party integrations. For example, if you're using a separate landing page builder that doesn't integrate with your email system, you might rely on something like Zapier to bridge the gap. While tools like Zapier are useful, constantly relying on them can become a costly workaround.
Imagine using a landing page builder designed to convert visitors, but without built-in email newsletter integration. This often means you'll have to pay for additional “zaps” or workarounds to send subscriber details to your email marketing platform. Over time, those costs add up, and you're left paying for inefficiencies rather than solving them at the root.
For example, we worked with a client who was sending her lead magnets manually. Whenever someone signed up for her newsletter, she had to open her inbox and send the lead magnet herself. This was taking up to 5 hours of her week. When we reviewed her tech stack, we set her up with a tool that automated the entire process. Now, the system handles it all — no more manual work, and she has an extra 5 hours each week to focus on more meaningful tasks.
By using a proper landing page builder that integrates directly with your email system, you not only avoid the costs of extra integrations, but you also save time and reduce potential errors. The right tools can streamline your operations, making your business more efficient and cost-effective.
When updating your tech stack, focus on compatibility and automation. Investing in the right systems will save you both time and money.
Final Thoughts
Modernising your business isn’t about adopting every new trend that comes along. It’s about making thoughtful changes that make sense for your company. Whether it's updating your tech, rethinking meetings, or embracing eco-friendly solutions, these steps can have a meaningful impact on your efficiency, costs, and team satisfaction.
In the end, it’s about staying competitive and ensuring your business doesn’t get left behind. And remember, modernisation isn’t a one-off event but an ongoing process. Regularly take a step back and ask yourself, “Is there a better way?” Chances are, there is.
By keeping your business practices up to date, you'll be better prepared to meet the challenges of today’s fast-paced environment. Always focus on improvements that make your employees’ lives easier, keep your costs down, and enhance your client experience.
Sarah x
P.S. Want help with your tech stack? Book a call and let's see what we can do
