For most businesses, it seems that roadblocks exist everywhere.

It’s hard to pick a direction with any sureness or certainty; more questions seem to arise from the landscape than answers. A recurring question appears more than others - that is, ‘how do you inject efficiency and effectiveness into your business’?

Here are 5 ideas to reclaim the effectiveness of your businesses - with no roadmap required!

Streamline Where Possible

In order for your business to operate most efficiently and effectively, take a step back, and try to identify where multiple systems overlap and have redundancies.

For example, if you’re part of a business which utilises a payroll system, a separate stock management system, and an employee management database, perhaps it’s time to try and find software which simplifies and rolls these multiple functions into one shell.

Business intelligence software can combine multiple outmoded systems, and it’s most often cloud-based (the benefits of which we’ll discuss in more detail below!) A further benefit of this streamlining process, is that one common set of training manuals and procedures can be used across an entire business - adding to efficiency.

When In Doubt, Digitise

It’s now 2017 - it should go without saying that digital storage almost always outperforms and outlasts paper storage. On a cost level, digital storage is (relatively) cheap, and takes up precious little space, whereas traditional archival systems require space, time, resources and (if they’re to be preserved long-term) special skill sets in order to ensure quality control.

Using newer technologies to facilitate the change to greater efficiency and effectiveness of your business should be a top priority.

Up In The Clouds

Cloud based storage is an easy, and ever-developing was to achieve this digital re-branding.

In a nutshell, cloud-based systems utilise the internet to dynamically store and access information, rather than relying on traditional in-house servers. This can save your business time and money in running costs (energy bills, hiring of specialised staff).

Cloud technology also allows software and data to be accessed across multiple sites - allowing a decentralisation of business (you can even access software from multiple locations at once). It is also able to be used across platforms and devices - rather handy if you’re the type of business using POS systems and iPads which need to constantly synchronise data, while also running a central database of stock and cost analysis.

Reach Out

It’s impossible to ignore the impact and overall effectiveness of social media and online platforms aimed at social engagement. Consider the type of business you engage in and aim to participate in the platform that best reflects your customer base.

Are you an image-heavy creative business? Instagram might be your perfect partner.

Are you an agile, self-starting tech firm? Hop-on and link-up with LinkedIn!

By engaging with external stakeholders through these channels, you can show that your business is relevant to the outside world, and add a personal, human touch. It’s a time-smart addition to any modern business, and demonstrates an ability to engage in the digital marketplace.

Go To Market

It’s easy to lose sight of who your customer base and network are.

What does your typical customer look like? Can you identify a set of needs and wants common to the core of your clientele?

Savvy businesses constantly engage their target market - by the aforementioned social channels, but also through older modes such as focus groups and market research. The increased use of digital technology allows your business to set up campaigns like SEO (search engine optimisation) and SEM (search engine marketing) without leaving the building. These campaigns can provide you with digital data which helps you better understand the needs of your customers and clients, without using a crystal ball.

It’s no secret that most successful businesses are early adopters of smart digital systems. These systems and approaches allow their business to save time and money, while allowing them to penetrate their market base - a recipe for greater business effectiveness and efficiency.