4 Ways To Get Your Business Online And Cloud-Based
You can move your business online and cloud-based, even if you’re typically a brick and mortar store.
Get your accounting processes online.
Transition your accounting and paperwork to the cloud. If you’re not already, you should transition your accounting software to something cloud-based. Chances are, you likely have an online solution for your accounting software, but you’re using an awkward hybrid for your paperwork. Some of it is in your email. Some of it is in a shoebox. Some of it was just tossed in the garbage.
Start using online-based systems to store your receipts and paperwork securely. If you use Hubdoc or similar software, you can sync to your cloud accounting software (if it’s Xero or QBO) and to your choice of back up - dropbox, google drive, box.
Transition your HR management to an online tool
Whether you want to use a robust solution like ADP for HR and Payroll, or perhaps use Rise Payroll and HR or Humi Payroll, getting your employees’ details and historic information in the cloud is important.
Where do you put performance reviews once they are done? If you use online software, it’s all stored in one place and you never have to worry about someone opening a file not meant for them.
Treat your computer as an access point
A couple of years ago, I went into an hour-long appointment with a perfectly working cell phone. An hour later, my phone wouldn’t turn on. Thankfully, I was able to get a new phone and quickly import contacts, apps, and emails, thanks to cloud management.
The same goes for your computer. If my laptop were to ever die, I can rest easy knowing that important work, spreadsheets, and calculations are all stored securely in the cloud. At any point, I can pick up another laptop and my business can keep running (after some basic security is implemented).
Develop services or products that can be sold online
Even if you are a main-street brick and mortar, you should have an online store for consumers to find your products. What a better way than to have an extra revenue stream? Adding on e-commerce to your website shouldn’t cost a fortune, at least in comparison to your sales. Services such as Squarespace or Shopify offer websites and online stores in one package.
If you’re service-based, then you can use tools like Google Meetings, Hangouts, Join.me, GoToMeeting, to facilitate online conversations while trying to maintain those face-to-face conversations.