Increasing Efficiency Within Your Small Business

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StrategyDriven Managing Your Business Article |Small Business Efficiency|Increasing Efficiency Within Your Small BusinessWhen you start your own small business, it won’t take long for you to realise that efficiency is one of the most important features that your team must concentrate on. Poor efficiency levels can mean that you spend far too much time on even the simplest of tasks, missing important deadlines and reducing your team’s overall productivity to make certain that you are physically unable to reach and surpass your goals. Luckily, improving efficiency levels within your small business needn’t be as difficult as you might initially expect, as there are just a few key areas in which you can focus your efforts to make a massive difference in no time at all. So if you and your team are ready to boost productivity and improve their pace, then read on to uncover some of the best tips and tricks that you can utilise today!

Motivation Is Key

One of the most essential features of a successfully efficient small business is motivation. If your staff are inspired to give it their all though each and every shift, you’re sure to benefit from increased productivity and a genuine desire to reach and surpass any goals that have been set. Keeping your team motivated needn’t be hard, as you can begin by offering rewards to those who show a particular level of commitment – a prize such as a luxury bottle of wine or a weekend hotel voucher is the perfect encouragement for your staff to really commit to the task at hand. Another way to keep your team motivated is through positive affirmations, as taking the time to personally congratulate and thank your staff for their hard work and dedication will encourage them to feel valued and appreciated. If your team can acknowledge that you really do need (and want) their help, they will be far more serious about providing you and your business with the support you need.

Cutting Transport Times

There’s nothing worse than having to wait for weeks and weeks for a product that you’ve purchased to turn up in the mail, and such an experience can discourage customers from ever purchasing through your store again. Transport reliability can either make or break your small business, as poor travel efficiency can mean that you wait for an age just to receive your materials which then take even longer to reach your customers once a product has been manufactured. Finding an experienced, reliable freight broker is one of the best things that you can do to increase your shipping efficiency levels, as they can act as a middle man in between you and transport companies to get the best service for the best price. Many big brands now offer bonuses like next day or even same day delivery, and this is important to bear in mind when establishing your delivery goals – as a small business you won’t be expected to provide such a service, but aim to keep your postage within a timeframe of 3-5 working days to keep your customers happy.

Remote Access Software: What is It and Why You Need One

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StrategyDriven Managing Your Business Article |Remote Access Software|Remote Access Software: What is It and Why You Need OneThe last decade saw an increasing interest in alternative work setups. Many organizations were considering remote working. The pandemic pushed companies to shift their operations remotely.

Beyond COVID-19, businesses are ready to establish at least a hybrid workforce where employees work both in the office and at home throughout the week. This will be impossible without the advancements in technology, specifically remote access.

Remote access software has become one of the most important tools in managing employees across different locations. Neil Patel highlighted some of the most popular remote access solutions in the market today.

But, before you choose a platform for your business, you should know the ins and outs of remote access and why you need one.

What is Remote Access Software?

Remote access refers to authorized personnel’s ability to access a system or a computer from a geographical distance using a network connection.

The user can access files and other system resources on any servers or devices connected to the network.

A remote access application is used to accomplish these tasks. Applications come with numerous features so your team members can work together seamlessly.

While each platform differs in functionalities, most have these essentials features:

  • Two-Way Desktop Sharing. A remote access application allows you to see the remote computer’s desktop. Similarly, you can share your own desktop view with the other machine. This is essential when providing technical support or demonstrating product features.
  • File and Clipboard Transfer. Remote access platforms make it easy to access files on another computer and download them to yours. You can also copy texts, commands, and scripts from the remote computer to your machine without using third-party communication software.
  • Unattended Access. The ability of authorized users to connect to another system even when no one is present in the remote end. With this functionality, you will not have to disrupt the other user whenever you need to access a file or an app on their computer.
  • Session Recording. While this can be accomplished using a third-party screen recorder, the ability to record your remote session within the same application is much more efficient. Having a video or snapshots of your session ensures transparency on both ends.

You can also explore advanced features depending on your specific needs. Functionalities such as multi-session handling, built-in messaging, reboot and reconnect, and more are available in most modern remote access applications.

Why Do You Need Remote Access Software?

Building a remote-working team brings unique challenges and opportunities to your organization. At the end of the day, you still need to make sure that your team stays productive. You still have meetings, presentations, planning, and other tasks, albeit in a different form. Remote access software can help you transition from a traditional office-based workforce to a completely remote team as seamlessly as possible.

Some of the advantages of using remote access software are:

Streamline Tasks and Workflows

Using remote access platforms, your staff can work on any device as long as they can access a network. They can quickly access files stored in your company servers or computers. That means they can remain productive regardless of their location.

Furthermore, some companies use proprietary software that can only be installed on corporate machines. Migrating these apps to new devices is expensive. Also, some enterprise-level applications require powerful computers that your staff may not have. Remote access platforms ensure that your team can still access your business tools without having to buy new hardware. They can connect directly to your machines in the office and continue their tasks.

Easy Collaboration

Remote access tools allow your team members to communicate and collaborate with one another without having to meet face-to-face. Screen sharing ensures that they are always on the same page. That means working together on a task is a breeze. Similarly, presentations and meetings can be conducted seamlessly by showing the presenter’s screen to the rest of the team.

Your clients also benefit from remote access apps. For example, your web designer can conduct a demonstration of the WordPress theme that they are creating for the customer. The client can clearly see the progress of the design. And, they can even provide interactive feedback using remote access tools.

Enhanced Monitoring

One of the challenges in shifting to a remote-working team is productivity. After all, without supervision, team members can wander off on the Internet and lose focus.

There are remote access platforms that can connect with multiple machines. These apps are often used for monitoring multiple computers. You can see your team members’ screen and check the progress of their tasks. The complete transparency ensures that your team is always on track and productive.

On top of that, you can keep a log of your team’s activities. Some remote access systems keep a record of who is accessing your company’s network and what they’re doing. These logs are necessary for auditing, especially if your organization follows regulatory guidelines.

Choosing the Right Remote Access Software

Remote access comes in all forms and functionalities. Depending on your company’s needs, you can use one or a combination of the following:

  • Virtual Private Network (VPN) – It creates a secure “tunnel” between your office network and a remote computer. Once your computer is added to the network, it can access the same files, applications, and systems as if you are in the office. It provides the best security and privacy as authorization is required to join a VPN.
  • SaaS Remote Access Tools – These are the most well-known remote access software. The desktop tools create a connection between a remote computer and another computer at the office. LogMeIn and TeamViewer are some of the most popular examples.
  • Helpdesk or ServiceDesk Software – They are often used in customer support and technical services. It includes tools to assist end-users, especially in troubleshooting problems. Technicians use this type of application to remotely access and control a client’s computer.

Organizations will continue to face challenges as they shift to remote work. However, using the right tools can make the transition as smooth as possible. Remote access software ensures that your team can work and collaborate as they used to, even outside the office.

What Are The Benefits Of 3D Printing?

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StrategyDriven Managing Your Business Article | What Are The Benefits Of 3D Printing?

These days, more businesses across a huge assortment of industries are embracing the process of 3D printing. This is because of the many different advantages that it possesses. With that being said, in this blog post, we are going to explore all of the benefits in further depth to help you get a better understanding.

3D printing is rapid

There is only one place to begin when it comes to the benefits that are associated with 3D printing, and this is the fact that it is rapid. Rapid prototyping provides you with the ability to design, test, and manufactured a customized part in a small amount of time. Plus, if required, you can modify the design without the speed of the manufacturing process being adversely impacted.

Great flexibility

Not only does 3D printing deliver rapid speed, but it is also incredibly flexible as well. You can create virtually anything with a 3D printer. On the flip side, if you were to use a traditional manufacturing process, every new part of every change within a part design would demand a new jig, die, mould, or tool to be manufactured for the creation of the new part.

Sustainability

In addition to the points so far, with 3D printing, you do not need to outsource as many parts for outsourcing. This means that the environmental impact is lower because fewer things are being sent around the world and there is not any requirement for an energy-consuming factory to be maintained.

Reduce risk

By switching to 3D printing, you are also going to be able to lower the risk involved with the manufacturing process as well. This is because product designers are going to be able to verify product prototypes before they begin making significant investments in manufacturing that can be disastrous.

High levels of quality

Aside from the benefits that have been discussed so far, you can also expect high levels of quality when it comes to 3D printing. Poor designs can arise through traditional approaches to manufacturing. However, the way that 3D printing works mean that the assembly is a step-by-step process, which ensures the design is improved and that you benefit from an exceptional level of quality.

You can reduce expenses with 3D printing

In addition to the suggestions that have been discussed so far, 3D printing is also great for those who are looking to lower their costs when it comes to production. 3D printing is deemed one of the most cost-efficient manufacturing options. Injection moulding and CNC machining, which are more traditional approaches, demand a big number of costly machines, and the labour expenses tend to be a lot higher as well. Therefore, you can expect to save a considerable amount of money by making the switch to 3D printing.

So there you have it: an insight into some of the different benefits that are associated with 3D printing. We hope that this has helped you to get a better understanding of why 3D printing is so beneficial and how you can make the most of it in your business.

6 Tips for Preparing Your Business Move

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StrategyDriven Managing Your Business Article |Moving your Business|6 Tips for Preparing Your Business MoveThe move is not a stage reserved exclusively for individuals. Indeed, whether it is to integrate a more modern space or for economic reasons, a company may also have to change premises. In this case, the company has to hire a professional mover. You should know that moving a business turns out to be a very specific task and that not all movers are able to carry it out.

Let’s see together what these specificities are and how to find the right mover for your company.

1.Good material and psychological preparation for the move

You must take into account the technical difficulties of the relocation, but also the human factor. To reduce the stress inherent in any move, it is essential to communicate the move with employees and start preparing the office for the move. Preparing the office involves removing any junk or unwanted items that you don’t want to take with you, if there’s a lot of this it is worth hiring an unwanted furniture removal service to clear it for you. Informing employees involves communicating the new location, move dates and any disruptions to work.

2. The administrative procedures of the company before the move

Several months before leaving permanently, the manager of the company must terminate the commercial lease (s) (commercial leases) of the old premises. Be careful; read your lease carefully before submitting a notice of departure.

3. The appointment of removal manager

The volume of work required for a successful business move means that it requires hiring relocation services. An internal team can sometimes face insurmountable difficulties, especially when the employees are new to this field. It is, therefore, recommended to delegate this task to professional moving companies.

Thanks to their mastery of business transfer skills, they will be able to draw up coherent specifications as well as manage the budget accurately.

4. Who should you notify of your change of address?

For businesses, postal details are of paramount importance. External collaborators (customers, suppliers, and shareholders) need to send documents regularly (invoices, purchase orders, complaints, etc.).

The change of address on letterheads, invoices, or even business cards must be planned in order to maintain a serious image of the company. Ideally, the upstream preparation will have already allowed the stock to flow naturally over the months while waiting for delivery day. Otherwise, you can print these official documents a few weeks before the move.

5. Take an inventory of your furniture and IT equipment

With regard to IT equipment, it is essential to delegate a manager to it who will have to detect obsolete elements and who will have to plan the transfer of each IT unit from one room to another.

On the relocation day, the movers will have already received dispatch instructions on arrival to facilitate the distribution of moving boxes. The transport of the computer park is delicate since these machines often contain precious and confidential data.

The designated person is, therefore, often responsible for backing up company data. Labeling is also an essential step to take in the aftermath because it simply allows employees to get back to their jobs more easily and quickly after the move.

6. Develop the specifications and schedule of operations

Once the details of the move are known (signed lease, fixed date, employees notified), the move should be planned and organized. In other words, you have to prioritize the parts to be moved. For example, some departments will have to wait last, such as customer service or after-sales service. This kind of precaution is necessary in order to avoid oversights and unpleasant incidents.

To calculate the cost of the move, it is important to refer to the estimate of your mover. In general, it is based on the specifications and the schedule of operations. It is imperative to have excellent time management and optimization of each trip between old and new premises.

How to Grow Your Dispensary Business

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StrategyDriven Managing Your Business Article | How to Grow Your Dispensary BusinessYou are reading this article because you are probably intrigued about what a dispensary SOP is, or you are trying to find a way to improve your current model. The only thing that matters is that you are taking the necessary initiative to get things done and ensure the future success of your business needs. If you are a beginner who isn’t quite certain about the world of dispensary SOP’s, then it is best to start by establishing its meaning. A dispensary SOP is a shortened name for Dispensary Standard Operating Procedures PDF which is the most significant document that is unique to each business because it sets out specific outlines, procedures, and regulations particularly in the cannabis industry. Even though it can be a complex document to formulate, it is the most effective document that you need to ensure that your business’ resources are managed adequately.

What Is A SOP? 

A well-thought-out and professional dispensary SOP will benefit you with acquiring your license but it is the main building block towards your success in dispensary marketing. A strong dispensary marketing strategy will elevate your cannabis business and ensure that it ranks highly because the dispensary SOP provides a step by step manual that guarantees an understanding of the core areas of the business that require standard operating procedures. This is why it is important to establish a dispensary SOP that your employees and management can understand.

What To Cover 

When establishing a dispensary SOP for a cannabis business, you ought to have a detailed assessment of how your business will be able to cover these areas.

Security

The potential for theft and other related illegal activities is high when dealing with large amounts of money. The types of security measures need to be considered alongside the state requirements.

Quality Assurance

Your dispensary SOP needs to detail how it will maneuver environmental, sanitation, and inspection factors. Adequate testing has to be conducted by any of the licensed cannabis testing facilities.

Packaging and Labeling

States have different laws regulating how cannabis products should be packaged and labeled, particularly where products could be exposed to the youth. Safeguarding measures are necessary for children.

Inventory Control

This is also known as “track and trace” in some states. Strict inventory management is a necessity to outline the procedures of handling and storage.

Storage

It is generally separated into the storing of records and cannabis products. Licenses and any required documents need to be stored in a secure place that will enable authorities to see them when requested.

Cash Handling

This needs to be addressed to avoid any potential fraud allegations. Strict practices are necessary for a dispensary SOP.

Making Your Business Known

Once you have compiled an efficient dispensary SOP that covers every area of your business including your founding values, vision, and mission the next thing that you need to concern yourself with is to devise a quality and innovative dispensary marketing strategy. The industry is highly competitive and with more countries relaxing their strict laws around the sale and purchase of cannabis it will become more saturated. This is why it is important to come up with a dispensary marketing plan that can adapt to the current digital age. The advertising laws in this industry are still strict and it makes it a challenge to advertise cannabis freely. Moreover, cannabis is still classified as a Class 1 drug, as a result, dispensary marketing is a major challenge. If your adverts are not being removed from advertising channels, they are too costly for most businesses to afford. As a result of these problems, most businesses have opted to use practical and less costly methods to improve their dispensary marketing challenges – direct mail, mass SMS, and email. However, mass SMS seems to be the most effective option of these three methods of advertising.

Word of Advice 

If you still feel like you don’t quite understand how dispensary SOP documents work or feel as though you might struggle coming up with a unique dispensary marketing campaign, then you can enlist the services of a company that will assist you to come up with great ideas to improve your business to be world-class standard and compete with industry giants.