If you’re financially minded, you’re probably always on the lookout for ways to save yourself and your business money. Did you ever stop to think about how technology — including the devices you are already using — can save you some serious cash?
Here are a few ideas to inspire you.
Electronic Invoices/Receipts Replace Expensive Printers
Help your business save money on printer devices, paper and ink by switching to electronic invoice/receipt system. Instead of printing out receipts or mailing hard copies of invoices, send them electronically (this also eliminates lots of expensive postage!)!
Large corporations like Nordstrom have already implemented emailed receipts into their brick and mortar stores. The stores save on their receipt paper and ink, and customers love having access to electronic receipts (they are so much easier to store and keep track of, both for record keeping and returns).
Telecommuting Saves on Overhead Costs
One of the most popular trends in the workforce is telecommuting, where employees work remotely. Allowing employees to work from home (or vacation, the coffee shop or anywhere they like!) can not only improve productivity, but it can help you save tremendous amounts on overhead costs like electricity, office equipment and other physical resources.
Technology like IM, video conferencing, project management and other electronic tools allow the entire team to stay connected without physically being in the same location. Telecommuting is also great for employee morale.
The Cloud Eliminates Costly IT Servers/Support
Cloud computing involves saving and accessing data remotely, instead of on pricey IT equipment. The ability to sync devices to the cloud, and access the cloud is a great way to save money on what is typically very expensive IT servers and support. Also, cloud computing ensures that your data is safely backed up off-site. Samsung is a great example of a company that has helped to lead the initiative to sync devices and use cloud computing.
Beta Testing Grants Free Access to Up-and-Coming Products
Many companies put products or services through a beta testing phase, in order to smooth out kinks before releasing to the general public. How can this work to your benefit? If there’s a product or service that could help your company, reach out to the developer and offer to be a beta tester. Sure, there might be minor wrinkles in the process, but for the most part beta products are usually very refined!
VoIP Cuts Down on the Phone Bill
Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) is an online service, like Skype or Google Voice, which enables you to make phone calls over an Internet connection. If you or your company spends a lot on your phone bill, this type of service could help save you big bucks. The VoIP apps can be easily downloaded onto a smartphone.
Blogging Saves Dollars on Marketing
Trying to reach a broad customer base without dropping a ton of money on mailers, flyers and other tangible marketing materials? It’s easy: start a blog! Most blogging platforms can be set up very cheaply, and you can write your blog posts yourself or hire an inexpensive freelance writer. Then, you can direct traffic to your blog via existing social networks for free!
You can also use blogging to your advantage in another way. Instead of hiring expensive social media consultants, browse industry blogs to find techniques and free tools for monitoring social media and marketing campaigns.
