Technological advances has dramatically changed the way we do business. Devices such as tablets, multifunction copiers and cloud sharing solutions are essential in the ever changing workplace. Offices in today’s business world are transmitting information by e-mail and teleconferencing instead of face-to-face meetings. Technology plays an important role in the ever changing business environment.
This is as relevant a question today as it was a decade ago. Where would we be without the copier? It’s true that we are printing less than 10-years ago and some businesses have attempted to create a paperless workflow. However, Gartner reports that total worldwide shipments of printers, copiers and multifunction products grew 1.7% in 4Q13, with 30.2 million units shipped (source: https://www.gartner.com/doc/2668620/quarterly-statistics-printers-copiers-mfps).
Gone are the days that your multifunction device simply copied and printed your documents. Toshiba released a new line of copiers that have tablet-style touch-panel controls with embedded apps that help you process documents with a simple touch. Document management workflow solutions can work with your copier to produce, track, edit, store and manage documents related to your business practice. Documents can electronically move through different departments, requiring approval or changes as it progresses through the stages. A workflow can begin with translating a document from Chinese to English, then converting it into an editable and searchable PDF for achieve or processing. Software solutions are even designed to help organizations save money by preventing excess and unauthorized printing. Document workflow solutions create a digital workflow that works in conjunction with your multifunction copier.
The current buzz in the workplace is Bring Your Own Device (BYOD). Most people have a tablet or smartphone and have used it in some fashion for work, even if it’s just to check email. Studies have shown that “being mobile” creates a better work-life balance and improves productivity. Rather than being stuck with company issued devices, employees are a lot happier using the mobile devices they already prefer and love. With the proper connectivity, you can be just as productive sitting in a coffee house or on the couch of your living room as you can in the cubical of your office. You’ll also discover that allowing the freedom to work remotely will attract top talent. Businesses also have found that offering their employees the benefit of telecommuting with their own device has saved them money. Smaller office space is needed and cost benefits include the worker paying for the majority or all of the costs for the mobile devices, services, and other associated expenses.
Cloud services are growing exponentially, with companies of all shapes and sizes adapting to this technology. Using the cloud can improve productivity and lower your IT expense.
There are cloud services that will improve collaboration and mobility while keeping your content secure and protected. Our office uses a service that mirrors the desktop and mobile interfaces that we are already familiar with, and it’s easy to adopt. It’s a powerful collaboration tool, particularly for keeping remote employees and multiple offices in sync.
What’s in store for the office of tomorrow?