The COVID-19 pandemic has made it more necessary for businesses of all sizes to embrace technology. Due to stay-at-home orders and social distancing measures, more people are shopping online or going contactless with their transactions; therefore, if your business is not equipped with technology, you could be missing out.
If you do have the technology, however, the learning does not end there. You must be smart as your technology to keep your business afloat during the pandemic. For example, if your company offers a platform for online elementary application, you should continue the tech behind the platform. The learning and updating never stop.
Give your business a fighting chance during the pandemic by avoiding these common tech mistakes.
Lack of Security Policies and Software
Computer security software is essential in thwarting phishing, hacking, and other scams. You might have basic software but protecting your credibility requires more than having customers download an off-brand, nameless, and questionable program.
Your data, passwords, customer lists, contracts, and other vital documents are crucial to your business. Protect these with quality security software. Also, implement policies on the handling of laptops, proper download of software updates, and security of mobile devices.
Relying on Outdated Tech
Updates keep your business competitive, especially since customers are after quicker and better services. Unfortunately, plenty of small businesses are still running their business on outdated software and hardware.
Lack of Regular Data Backups
With the growing number of spams and scams, backing up your data is a must to ensure that all information is secure — even amid a cyber-attack. So whether you use an online scheduled service or do it manually, the important thing is you back up EVERYTHING.
Not Learning the Software or App
Some small businesses only use a small percentage of their apps or software, which is a waste of good tools. Tech companies create innovative tools designed for the unique needs of small businesses. All apps are tested and come with helpful add-ons that can simplify your business’s operations — if you take the time to learn them.
Lack of Disaster Preparedness Plan
If there is one thing the pandemic has taught everyone, it’s to be prepared for the worst-case scenario. If you aren’t prepared, especially with your technology, unprecedented events (such as a hurricane, flood, riot, or pandemic) can put you out of business.
A disaster preparedness plan ensures your business moves forward in spite of a disaster. Each plan includes a backup power system, off-site backups of critical documents, and compute backup systems. It also helps to have an email and phone tree ready.
Pivoting to a fully digital business model requires careful planning and patient work. You must also have the right tools to establish a consistent brand presence, develop credible services, and maintain more customers. Technology ensures you can do all three (and more) — and the results will be better if you invest time and resources in it.
Be smart as your tech to stay afloat during and after the pandemic.