http://www.usnews.com/education/blogs/international-student-counsel/2013/06/18/technology-to-keep-international-students-connected
Workforce:
Technology in the workplace allows businesses to expand quickly and efficiently. Business technology such as video conferencing, social networks and virtual office technology has removed workplace boundaries that previously limited business expansion. With business technology, companies can target a wider customer base and grow to higher levels.
Improve Communication
Business technology is important because it improves communication in the workplace. Office workers are not limited to phone calls or inter-office mail to interact with one another anymore. Electronic mail allows workers to send messages instantly without interrupting the recipient. Business technology also improves communication with clients and business partners because information can be passed through multiple channels almost instantly.
Human Capital
Technology in the workplace improves the efficiency of screening, recruiting and hiring potential candidates. Businesses utilize the Internet to spread the word about the organization and advertise job openings. Hiring managers can target candidates by using digital advertising technology that tracks the websites they visit. Technology like personality assessments and screening tools allow businesses to determine whether a potential candidate is an appropriate fit for the organization.
Efficiency
Office technology saves times by speeding up the work flow process. Digital filing systems save space, paper and printing costs. The use of computer systems allow corrections to be made instantly. Resources like electronic files and access to information technology are available with the click of a button.
Mobility
Technology in the workplace practically eliminates space and time. Video conferencing technology lets businesses on any part of the globe interact with one another. Technology reduces travel costs because businesses can set up virtual meetings and distribute data without the need to be in the same room. Technology allows businesses to establish a global presence at a fraction of the cost.
Reference: http://smallbusiness.chron.com/importance-technology-workplace-10607.html
Think back to how business was done a few decades ago. There was no email, Internet, mobile marketing, telecommuting or smartphones. Now communications are instantaneous, huge amounts of information move through email and the Internet and powerful tools are in the hands of owners and employees. Innovations in technology have improved operations at companies of all sizes and helped turn small local businesses into global businesses.
Communication
Cell phones have become small business necessities for owners and employees. These devices are lifelines for staying in touch when on the road and responding to customer inquiries in a timely manner. Smartphones raise the bar with access to the Internet, email and business applications in a small hand held device. Email, text messaging and social networking are other advances in communication that keep small businesses connected to their customer bases and improve internal communication within the company.
Marketing
Technology has freed small businesses from the restrictions of prints ads when it comes to reaching new and existing customers. Internet marketing ranges from a simple informational website, to advertising on search engines, to online product sales. Email marketing is an effective and low cost method to reach a large group of people with a newsletter, coupons or business updates. Mobile marketing is a relatively new frontier that reaches people through text messaging, advertising on mobile applications and offering branded applications that tie customers into what is happening with the business in a fun and entertaining way.
Productivity
Small businesses need to wring every ounce of productivity out of their operations and technology tools help employees get tasks done more quickly. This may range from printing out marketing materials to providing customer service through email or online chat. The key is to keep employees focused when using technology and to use it appropriately with the goal of saving time. Sometimes, a phone call may be more efficient and productive than an email. Provide employees with the right hardware and updated software to keep them working at peak proficiency.
Customer Service
Technology brings businesses closer to customers. Businesses use email to answer questions, offer online chat to help customers that are visiting the business website, and equip call centers with the latest phone equipment that makes customer service agents more efficient. Give customers a choice of ways to contact the company. Technology is powerful, but keep the people element in mind and don't skimp on training employees in effective customer service techniques and the proper use of the technology.
Telecommuting
Many small businesses now offer telecommuting and flex time as benefits. Colleagues can stay in touch from different locations, and when working different hours, by using email, online collaboration tools and mobile computing devices. When in the office, workers can share digital documents, convey information through presentations and create training videos to bring new employees up to speed.
Reference: http://smallbusiness.chron.com/technology-improve-business-2188.html
-Rebecca
