As we move further into the digital age, future-proofing your business has never been more important. Nowadays, it’s not simply enough to be online and digital by default. Instead, there are a number of new trends which look set to become the standard.
By adopting these developments now, you can avoid disruption when they become the only way forward, further down the line. In this post, we’ll look at 11 simple strategies to future proof your business for years to come.
1. Support remote working
From cost savings to productivity and even staff retention, remote working has countless benefits for employers – as well as employees. After businesses experienced these benefits from 2020 onwards, many have already confirmed that they will be moving permanently to a remote or hybrid working model.
Eventually, remote working will become the norm. It will be the norm to save money on an office and have better productivity and the norm to attract the best staff. By going remote or hybrid now, you can stay on the right side of the curve and avoid disruption.
2. Embrace the cloud
Cloud computing allows you to store your files, data and applications on remote servers. It can be accessed from any location with an internet connection. It improves security, eliminates downtime and could even save you money with no need to maintain your own servers.
While 94% of enterprises use the cloud in some capacity, you can future proof your business by migrating more or even all of your workload to this new way of working. On top of the other benefits, it will make it easier to work remotely should you ever make the switch.
3. Switch to VoIP
Landlines and private branch exchanges (PBX) have been the norm for several decades now. But in recent years, we’ve seen the rise of a more cost-effective and flexible alternative – namely, Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP). As well as being cheaper to install and run, VoIP can be used in any location, making it ideal for the more modern, flexible approach to working.
Now matching landlines for reliability and call quality, it’s only a matter of time before VoIP becomes the new norm. Those stuck on landline and PBX will be forking out more than their competitors for a lesser service when it does. That’s why switching now is one of the best strategies to future proof your business.
4. Go green
The environment is becoming a more prominent issue across the world. According to Nielsen, a massive 81% of global consumers feel strongly that companies should help improve the environment. That’s even higher (85%) among Millennials, who will soon represent an even larger proportion of the working population.
But it’s not just a political preference or passive ideology. An increasing proportion of consumers – already up to a third in 2017 – will buy from brands based on their social and environmental impact. As this number grows, it will become essential for businesses to ditch environmentally damaging practices favouring sustainable alternatives.
Whether it’s going paper-free, working remotely to reduce emissions from commuting or ensuring your supply chain is ethical and sustainable – going green now is a sure-fire way of future-proofing your business.
5. Invest in digital skills
Technology is continually advancing. This means the skills needed to use it must do the same. What does this mean for future-conscious businesses? You need to empower your team with the digital skills to thrive.
Training staff in niche areas like data analytics, social media management, cloud systems and cybersecurity will help future proof your business and equip it with the talent to adapt to new challenges and opportunities. Even better, upskilling opportunities not only improve your team’s capabilities but also boost employee satisfaction and retention.
6. Prioritise cybersecurity
Businesses are becoming increasingly reliant on digital tools and remote working. With this movement comes the need to double down on cybersecurity. Data breaches can be costly. Not just financially but also in terms of trust and reputation. Implementing strong security measures like multi-factor authentication (MFA) and encrypted communications will help protect your business.
7. Adopt scalable technology
Growth-friendly technology is a cornerstone if you want to future proof your business. Scalable solutions allow you to adapt quickly to changing needs without overhauling your entire system. Whether it’s a customer relationship management (CRM) platform, an e-commerce system, or even your communication tools, choosing technology with scalability in mind ensures you’re ready to handle growth or unexpected changes.
Pro tip to future proof your business: Invest in tools that offer modular upgrades or subscription plans. This means you’ll only pay for what you need without losing the flexibility to expand later.
8. Build a strong digital presence
A strong online presence is no longer optional in today’s internet-driven world. Your website, social media channels and digital marketing strategies all play a critical role in how customers perceive your business.
Focus on creating value-driven content, like blogs, videos or webinars that showcase your expertise and resonate with your audience. Of course, you’ll need a robust internet connection like FTTP to support your content and truly future proof your business.
9. Foster resilience through strategic planning
Future proofing your business isn’t just about technology. It’s also about mindset. This means anticipating challenges, planning for them and creating a culture of adaptability. How do you do this? Reviewing your business strategy regularly, identifying potential risks and having contingency plans in place can help you weather everything from economic shifts to technological changes.
Consider involving your team in resilience planning to really unpack what your business can do to foster resilience. By encouraging open communication and innovation, you can create a workforce that’s ready to tackle future challenges head-on.
10. Strengthen collaboration tools
The numbers speak for themselves. More than 85% of UK organisations now offer some form of remote work option and almost 70% of employees prefer a hybrid set-up.
Remote and hybrid work is great but to keep teams connected and productive smart collaboration tools are essential. Investing in solutions like video conferencing software, shared cloud workspaces and unified communication systems makes sure your team can work at full capacity, no matter where they are.
Our advice to future proof your business? Look for platforms that integrate communication tools like VoIP with project management software to create an all-in-one solution for your business needs.
11. Optimise customer service channels
The way businesses interact with customers is evolving. The past few years have placed a greater emphasis on fast, personalised and multi-channel communication. Consider elevating your customer service with tools like live chat and AI-driven chatbots.
Meet your customers where they are and make your customer support channels accessible across multiple platforms. This includes mobile apps, social media and email.
VoIP-based systems can also transform the way you connect with your customers. Features like call routing, voicemail-to-email and integration with CRM systems not only promise exceptional support but help build the long-term loyalty needed to future proof your business.
Future proof your business with VoIP
If you’re looking to future proof your business, VoIP is certainly a step in the right direction. At VS Group, we provide high-quality VoIP services for charities to help organisations in the voluntary sector stay prepared for the changing business world.
To find out more, simply get in touch with our team or book a virtual meeting.
