The world is changing rapidly. Therefore, it is high time to make necessary changes in the way of doing things. The old method of working is fading and new ways are emerging. Though it is difficult to switch gears and adapt to changes, it is a prerequisite for success and existence. However, always remember to embrace the new technology with great clarity. There are many technological solutions, which will reduce the efforts of managing processes and resources while maximizing productivity. This section focuses on how companies can work smarter and not harder by adopting new applications.
Cloud Based Accounting Software Solutions
QuickBooks Online can be identified as an accounting solution for small and growing businesses. This is a commonly used software, which was first introduced in 2001. It offers a full range of features and functions to reduce the tasks associated with accounting and bookkeeping. Some of them are automated invoicing, VAT management, payroll, bank reconciliation, etc. This also provides various benefits such as access to real-time data, no need for installation, access to data from anywhere, support multi-currency, etc. It also has a mobile app that can be used to track sales and expenses and to send invoices promptly.
Xero can be defined as a cloud-based accounting solution, which already has over 2 million users and subscribers. Xero simplifies the accounting process by tracking and paying bills promptly, claiming expenses, tracking projects, managing contacts (vendors and customers) having an online filing system, etc. It offers a safe and secure software experience with 24/7 online support, access to up-to-date information, user-friendly interface, etc. This also has a mobile app that enables users to manage and track expenses, view bank balances even facilitate bank reconciliation and conversion of quotes into invoices.
Smart Email Management, Instant messaging and video conferencing soloutions
Boomerang
This is an application, which allows scheduling emails that need to be sent later. With this app, you can write emails whenever you’re free and send them in a timely manner by using a calendar picker. All the scheduled emails will be sent promptly even the device is off or without the internet connection. It eliminates geographical barriers by facilitating communication with people in various time zones. It is considered as a secured application, as it does not keep the Gmail password or store any messages. Further Boomerang offers a bundle of additional benefits including the help of artificial intelligence, inbox pause, scheduling meetings, follow-up emails with no response, scheduling recurring emails, etc.
Slack
A Messaging App that creates links between users and the information they require. Slack enables you to work in a more flexible, transparent, and a connected workspace. It simplifies communication by creating dedicated channels. You can create separate spaces for different projects to bring the right people and information together. Projects and workflows will move faster, as the users can obtain information regardless of the time zone and the location. Further up-to-date information shared among workers will increase the quality and the speed of the decision-making process which will eventually boost up the productivity in the workspace. Always remember two heads are better than one.
Zoom
Zoom is a cloud-based video conferencing communication technology that enables users to create virtual meet-ups, webinars and live chats. Its high-quality video and audio capabilities will be extremely beneficial for remote working environments. Meeting recording, screen sharing, background changing, gallery view, group messaging, emoji reaction capabilities have increased the app’s popularity. Further, it offers a free plan and some affordable pricing plans to its users. Zoom is compatible with a variety of operating systems including Windows, mac, android, and iOS.
Cloud based Data Storing & Sharing Solution
A cloud-based storage option, which provides file storing, and synchronization facility (shared data sources). It prevents unauthorized access and can be recognized as a very secure transferring and storing option. It continuously takes actions against identified suspicious malicious software, ransomware attacks, spams, or phishing (using a fraudulent message to disclose sensitive information). Effectiveness in teamwork will be increased as the drive goes hand in hand with Docs, Sheets, and Slides. This collaboration enables users to directly open, edit and store various file types. A well-organized drive will act as a timesaver. Further, 15GB free storage, Google’s AI technology and searching features add more value to the drive.
Secured Solution to track and keep
This can be defined as a freemium secured password managing and generating application that will secure your passwords and sensitive information. This app
comes with a slew of advantages including form autofill, ability to store payment information (digital wallet), dark web monitoring (notify if your information is
hacked), generating secure passwords, LastPass authenticator, security dashboard, etc. it offers three different pricing plans.
- Free plan – limited to one device type
- Premium – no device type limitation
- Families – no device type limitation
Feature-rich Time tracking Solution
Click time is the most user-friendly time tracking and expense tracking application, which comes with some inbuilt features for accounting firms regardless of companies business focus. (tax or audit) It not only limits to tracking the staff working hours but also expands to identify and understand the availability of the employees, meeting the project deadlines while sticking to the given budget. It offers a range customize, unique and unmatched solutions that suit for every industry. Especially its custom integration option and remote workforce resources (Ability connect to any application based on your requirement) make it worth more.
Cloud based Project Management Solution
Cloud-based, all-in-one project management tool, which is embedded with hundreds of additional features. Some of them are a unique hierarchical overview, ability to organize employees and complex tasks, automated workflows (recurring checklists, reminders), powerful collaboration tools, ClickUp Doc for documentation editing, real-time reporting feature, time tracking, 24/7 support. Especially its Gantt chart feature (a general view of all project schedules) makes it more valuable. Further, it offers a free plan which is consisted of 100MB of storage, unlimited tasks and unlimited users.
Cloud based Customer Relationship Management (CRM) Solution
Zendesk can be defined as a cloud-based customer relationship management application, which is designed to enhance customer relationships. It keeps the company on track while making things easier for customers. Having a central point for all customer requests and inquiries, messaging and live chat facility, help Centre, community forums, AI technology for answering common questions, reporting and analytical software and knowledge base software (to share articles) will emphasize Zendesk as a feature-rich application. It also offers a variety of free and paid integrations with some other useful apps.
