There are so many technology solutions that can support small business owners. By using the latest digital practices you can scale your business, and reach new audiences. To inform your tech moves this year, pay close attention to these five technology trends.

1 . Artificial Intelligence

There are many different ways that businesses can use artificial intelligence. Many modern companies use AI to support their marketing tactics. Using artificial intelligence companies can monitor customer behavioral patterns, they can track how people came across their site, and what motivated them to purchase. Companies can also use AI to automate cybersecurity processes or to automate customer appointments. Artificial intelligence can improve various different operations, saving your business time. From recruitment processes to analytics, there are lots of ways to use AI.

2. Mobile payment systems

Over the last year or so, mobile payment systems have become very popular. By using such systems, your business can access many benefits. Using mobile payment systems allows your business to be more flexible. Staff can use MPOS systems to take payments as they walk around your store. You’ll be able to reduce queuing times and offer extra convenience. Using digital technology many stores are offering self-check-out options, or allowing customers to use QR codes.

3. Outsourced IT

Businesses have so many different IT needs, and so it can be difficult for your in-house team to manage them all. Many businesses are outsourcing their IT processes, using a managed IT provider. An IT company can provide many different support services including maintenance, security, backup, data recovery, and help desk support. When you work with a managed IT service you can improve your IT infrastructure, and accelerate the performance of your company. For more info, contact Pointivity.

4. Influencer marketing

Using social media technology businesses can work with influencers, to improve the brand visibility. So many consumers use ad-blocking software, and so your traditional ads won’t get seen by as many people. By designing effective influencer marketing campaigns, you can target your audience, and grow your following. There are lots of advantages to influencer marketing including:

• Influencer marketing has an excellent ROI.
• Influencers can make creative content to engage audiences.
• These campaigns can drive loyalty and trust.
• A high percentage of consumers depend on influencer recommendations.

5. Improved cybersecurity

In 2020 there were a record number of cyberattacks. According to Fintech News, ‘Cloud-based attacks rose 630% between January and April 2020,’ and ‘Phishing attempts rose 600% since the end of February.’ To respond to these threats businesses are amping up their protection, using advanced multi-factor authentication and cloud-based security software. It’s important that you provide your staff with the latest cybersecurity training, and create disaster recovery plans. Neglecting cybersecurity is one of the biggest startup mistakes to avoid.

Allow these trends to shape your technology practices for 2021. To keep up with the competition businesses must focus on digital transformation. With many tech solutions at our fingertips, businesses have all they need to thrive.