Four Key Strategies for Navigating the Digital Business Era
Today, operating a business without technology is no longer an option. It’s a necessity. During the past few years, major corporations have been increasingly capitalizing on the four major waves of technology that are driving innovation: Social, Mobile, Analytics and the Cloud.
With this shift comes new ideologies and methodologies, specifically in business, that can be implemented to keep you in the driver’s seat as you explore new and unknown territories. Here are 4 key strategies for businesses operating in today’s Digital Business Era:
1. Take advantage of big data to gain big opportunities
Big data has become a business buzzword, but many companies are still not sure how to fully leverage big data to improve their bottom line. Big data is giving companies the gift of information, providing brand intelligence and insights as to how and why your business is running the way it is. As a result, having the right data when you need it can make or break you. However, having this information isn’t enough. Companies shouldn’t solely worry on obtaining the information; they must focus on properly storing, analyzing and integrating this data. To effectively use data to your advantage, shift the way you think about your information and view big data as a core component of your company. It should be organized and well maintained to ensure you can build upon it and grow with it in the future. Information is king in this age of technology. However, you no longer have to be a king to afford access to it.
2. Develop a client-driven ecosystem
Another key to success in the digital industrial era is understanding your clients’ needs and wants. Doing business is no longer just about having a good product or service at a fair price. Consumers are looking for more than that; they want a great product or service at a fair price with an outstanding experience. Technology allows your business to stand out by leveraging services that improve your buyer’s experience. Just like businesses, consumers have unlimited access to information on what product they would like to purchase and for unique reasons. Because of this, businesses should start embracing the shift from selling things to selling results. Direct platforms between clients and partners or instant access to all products and purchasing history can give the digital touch your clients crave to improve their experience. Happier consumers, happier bottom lines.
3. Create relationship-driven ecosystems
Technology has created a world where people never really go away. Bad relationships between vendors and competitors can tarnish your brand’s reputation indefinitely if you are not careful. In the digital age, there is no longer a “dog eats dog” mentality. Technology is built off of integrating information so that it can give it’s end user the best possible solution. Businesses need to make this adjustment as well; they should no longer worry about their bottom line, but on creating mutually beneficial relationships in their industries. It’s important to make allies not enemies. You have no idea how you could be benefit from a relationship in the future.
4. Ensure security measures
In the age of big data, security is important. Let’s rephrase that: Security is absolutely crucial. Having the technology to access metrics, analytics, and customer information in one place is fantastic, and, of course, you’re not the only one who thinks so. Vulnerable information is just that, vulnerable. There are many out there who would love to reap the benefits of your hard-earned information gathering. Technology should be looked at as an investment that should be protected.
Business in the digital era is an adjustment. It’s not impossible, though. With the right planning, the right people, and the right mindset, your company can thrive. Remember information is king and how you choose to use it could significantly improve your business efficiency, and long-term profitability.
