It is impossible to deny the effects that technology has had on businesses in recent years. Regardless of the size, scope or industry of the company, the advent of the internet, mobile devices and artificial intelligence has made its mark.
Changes in technology have affected nearly every aspect of our personal and professional life; however, the most prevalent changes are likely in communication. The way that we communicate is constantly evolving, and it is presently being pushed forward by technological advances.
When researching the changes that technology has delivered to communication, the focus is often on personal experiences. This is certainly not the full picture. Technology has made significant, permanent changes to how businesses communicate, both internally and externally. The following are just a few of the ways that business communication has changed recently due to technology.
Immediacy
Likely the most impactful way that technology has changed business is by increasing immediacy. Prior to improvements in email and the implementation of Instant Messaging and mobile phones, communication in large companies and companies with multiple locations or remote workers was not nearly as efficient.
One type of technology that exemplifies the immediate nature of contemporary communication in business is real-time technology. This innovative technology typically comes in the form of applications that enable immediate chatting and streamlined communication. Now, employees do not need to hop on the phone or send a lengthy email to communicate with their coworkers; a quick IM conversation can help to increase productivity and reduce the delay in action that often results from an email conversation.
Remote workers are now able to more efficiently work with their counterparts through these applications in addition to dashboards, video conferences, and meetings. This takes away many of the impersonal aspects of working remotely and can increase teamwork.
Security
Secure communication is one of the principal requirements for businesses of all sizes. Security concerns in modern business are very justified, especially because of the widespread use of email in the workplace.
The great news is that digital communication is now more secure than ever. This security is multifaceted, with measures being taken by both the application and the system itself. This means that while Google and Gmail will run security measures, so will your computer itself. In addition to these internal measures, increasingly powerful and comprehensive external security software is readily available.
Automation
Another way that technology has left its mark in business communication is through automation. Technology has made communication easier and more immediate, which is in a lot of cases a benefit. However, it can also cause business owners and employees to be buried in a wave of emails, messages, and tasks because of this same immediacy.
How do you combat this? As technology continues to advance, so do the solutions to common business issues. Automation is one of these solutions; companies can utilize automated services to increase their efficiency. One such technology is Voice over Internet Protocol or VoIP. This technology automatically places and receives calls, allowing employees to focus their time elsewhere.
Versatility
One of the most useful aspects of technological advances in business is the versatility that they provide. Beyond contacting and speaking with coworkers, employees can use technology for tasks like making presentations. Presentations are now easier to follow and much more interactive. This helps to ensure that the audience is engaged and comprehends the content.
Externally, technology can help you communicate better with your customers or interested consumers by better understanding their wants and needs. Technology like Artificial Intelligence helps businesses to learn more about their customers by how they act, and then marketing specifically to the person.
Contemporary communication in business is unique because it is not through a singular path. Previously, businesses were limited to tools like email, fax, or phone calls in order to delegate. Now, communication is more conversational than ever. Feedback and edits can be implemented almost immediately with tools like file sharing.
Technology is helping to strengthen businesses and make them more effective by being more streamlined, easy to use, and bettering communication both internally and externally.
