A business that’s behind the times can soon find itself struggling. You can only rely on loyal customers for so long, and soon you have to start bringing in new sales. You might have been running successfully for several decades, but you need to keep up with important changes during that time. If your business still looks the same as it did ten or twenty years ago, it’s likely that you’re getting overshadowed by your competition if they’re staying more up to date. There are some vital elements of your business that you need to update if you want to keep it going.
Slow Software Lacking Function
Even out of date businesses are likely using some kind of computer software. However, just because you have some software that you use regularlydoesn’t mean it’s the best choice for your business. Maybe you’re still using spreadsheets to keep track of your sales, for example. If you need to update your software and other aspects of your IT, you might benefit from the help of a basic managed IT service like microdoctor.com. A service like this can take a look at your out of date software, hardware, and IT systems and help you to make everything more modern. More importantly, they can make sure it’s functional and helps you meet your business goals. Some businesses have needs that are much more specialized, however. In these types of scenarios, outsourcing support for things like the IBM AS400 will most likely suit your needs better.
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A Basic, Boring Website
Old business websites can be killers for any business that wants to survive and thrive. You might think that just having a website is enough, but a website that looks like it hasn’t been updated since the 1990s could be worse than not having one at all. People might wonder whether your business even still exists if your website doesn’t show any sign of having been touched in recent years. Your site needs to look modern and provide relevant information for visitors. It should offer a good user experience and be easy to navigate. Rather than a website builder, get a professional designer to help you.
Lack of Contact Options for Customers
Another thing that any modern business should have is a variety of contact options for customers. If you’re still expecting them to call or fax you, with no alternatives on offer, you could find that you don’t hear much from customers. Instead, you need to make sure you have a number of choices for people to get in touch. You can have email, live chat, social media, and other options that allow your customers to contact you in the way that they prefer. Think about accessibility for disabled customers too.
Old-Fashioned Payment Systems
Are you still expecting your customers to pay by check or by giving their credit card details over the phone? These slow and cumbersome payment methods are not only inconvenient for your customers, but they’re not great for your business either. Be sure to consider more modern methods of payment, including online payment options, wire transfers, and more.
Don’t leave your business out of date. Update it to bring it in line with your modern competitors.
