Utilizing Technology

cloud computing technology informationIn this day and age, every organization should leverage technology in the workplace. But it’s one thing to have technology solutions and quite another to make sure the solutions are being used to their full extent. Using technology is not just about having computers and an internet connection in the office. It’s also about having a deep understanding of the various software solutions available to employees. Having a complete working knowledge of various applications will significantly affect employee productivity. The knowledge and understanding of these programs also breaks down barriers to mobility. Work-related documents and information can be accessible on the road, as well as in the office.

Wasted time and energy add up over time. Keeping employees productive and efficient should be an important objective for all managers. Looking at a normal business environment, there are many tools that can help organizations take control of their time and improve efficiencies. Here are some examples.

  • Collaboration is key in the workplace. Increased connection in the workplace promotes extended communications among co-workers, clients, and industry professionals. The right technology can eliminate multiple emails flying back and forth between employees. You can also eliminate any “double” work, where 2 or more people may be making corrections on the same document. Try using collaborative tools such as webinar conferences, skype, video chat or an intranet where employees can share files. Applications such as OneNote, Outlook, Office 365 and Project can keep everyone informed more efficiently. Many organizations are adopting SharePoint for even greater project management oversight.
  • Document Management. When cloud services became available, document management got a whole lot easier. Employees can work live with collaboration tools like Google Docs. This tool allows multiple people to work on a project together without emailing multiple versions back and forth.
  • The collection of data and the retrieval of information is key in today’s workplace. At the very minimum, employees should have a working knowledge of Excel and know what capabilities exist within the application. Other programs, like Sharepoint, are capable of more complex data entry and retrieval.
  • Tools that are common to most workplaces – including most Microsoft Office applications – are instrumental in providing an effective solution for organizing the data collected to solve many problems.

Effective Use Of Technology In The Workplace. Technology has afforded most organizations with the opportunity to have a higher level of communication and connectivity than we’ve had before. We have, through these technologies, the ability to connect instantly with others, regardless of where they work or live. Employees have the ability to communicate face to face – even when they reside in different parts of the country – or world!

Technology is a powerful tool that can be used to foster relationships, effectively manage time, improve organization and bridge the gaps of communication. The key to the powers of technology lies in the knowledge and confidence of your employees. The level of knowledge of a particular application depends on the individual and his or her work. Some of us take longer to understand and feel comfortable with programs than others. By providing workshops to reinforce what we know, and open the door to other possibilities, we grow the productivity skills of our organization.