Business hasn’t been the same since the coronavirus pandemic started. First, there was the temporary closure of all non-essential companies to slow the spread. As a result, employers had to let go of some of their employees to remain afloat. Then, the skyrocketing unemployment rates caused consumers to slow down on their spending. Though restrictions have been lifted and businesses have been allowed to reopen, keeping employees and customers safe is an uphill battle. 

As the global health and economic crisis continues, businesses have had to make adjustments to accommodate everyone. While making operational changes in brick-and-mortar establishments have effectively reduced health risks, many entrepreneurs turned to tech tools like those listed below to adapt. 

Collaboration Tools

Remote teams have become the norm during the pandemic. It’s an effective way for businesses to comply with COVID-19 health and safety regulations and keep operations going despite budget cuts. With employees working from home, however, managing was another hurdle to jump. 

Fortunately, technological resources, like collaboration software, made things more manageable. The applications provided managers with a platform to delegate tasks and manage employee time, progress, and payroll. On the other hand, employees found it easier to organize assignments, collaborate on projects, and virtually communicate with team members. 

Video Conferencing Software

In-person meetings came to a screeching halt amid the pandemic. For industries that rely heavily on client interaction to provide quality service, this put a damper in their operations. Video conferencing software and other remote communication tools paved the way. Attorneys were able to hold remote depositions, doctors were able to schedule telemedicine appointments, and other industries could conduct virtual meetings without risking anyone’s health. 

Outsourcing

Though entrepreneurs decided to let go of employees to conserve money, the workloads became a problem for existing staff. As employees’ physical and emotional well-being is crucial to company success, executives opted for a more affordable solution known as outsourcing. By hiring an independent contractor or outside agency to complete specific tasks, businesses could boost productivity, improve employee morale, and enhance customer service. 

Project Management Software

Contractors and construction companies needed an efficient way to continue providing services to their commercial and residential customers. Their jobs often require in-person meetings to discuss everything from estimates, project ideas, budgets, and deadlines with clients. Managers also needed an efficient way to manage teams and productivity. Project management software possesses all these features making things safer and more manageable. 

eCommerce Platforms

When brick-and-mortar establishments had to close up shop, business owners turned to the internet to reach their customers. Designing eCommerce platforms gave customers 24/7 access to products and services from the comfort of their homes. It also enabled teams to remotely while saving a ton of money on overhead expenses. As eCommerce platforms became so successful, some companies decided to switch to exclusive online operations going forward. 

Delivery Services

While online shopping is a convenient way for consumers to access products and services they need, there’s just one disadvantage. Unfortunately, it takes a few days for the merchandise to arrive. That’s why many businesses turned to same-day delivery service providers to get consumers their items faster. From convenience stores to department stores, online shoppers now can shop, pay, and receive their purchases within 24 hours. Restaurants also tapped into same-day delivery companies so customers could get delicious meals despite not being able to dine in. 

The temporary closure of non-essential establishments, events, and activities, the unfortunate loss of valuable employees, and a decline in sales, left businesses large and small in a bind amid the global pandemic. While some companies were unable to survive, others turned to technological resources and tools like those discussed above to weather the storm. With modern technology adaption, industries have climbed out of the hole, reduced employee and customer risks, improved morale, boosted productivity, and increased sales despite current times. If your small business is currently struggling, consider investing in the above resources to increase your chances of success.