Computers have been around long enough for you to expect your employees to be well acquainted with basic functionality. Small Business Computing, however, suggested many offices workers make frequent mistakes with common programs like Excel.
You want to encourage computer literacy among your team members. They don’t have to be digital prodigies, but they should be familiar enough with your system to be productive. Here are 3 suggestions to make your office a little more tech savvy:
1. Screen for the computer skills you need
It might seem like common sense to test new job applicants for computer skills, but some companies perform the bare minimum and move on. Demand Media suggested determining the exact computing criteria the job calls for and making digital performance review part of the application process.
Each position in your company may call for a different set of skills. People in charge of finances have to understand spreadsheets and financial software for security companies. Customer service representatives, on the other hand, should be familiar with the functionality of all the online communication channels modern consumers like to use.
The people in your company, who occupy similar positions, should advise prospect screeners on what actual computer procedures are necessary for daily success. Employees who report their current computer routines may also bring you up to speed on problems with the current system.
A basic skill assessment test should be part of the application process.2. Make sure your system makes sense
Is your computer system designed for employee success? It is much easier for workers to perform their daily duties when technology works with them instead of against them. To prevent errors stemming from frustration, you should make sure your hardware and software is up to date and designed for the tasks you want to perform.
A common problem for companies is outgrowing old systems. Entrepreneur suggested small businesses may start with simple systems like Excel, but when they expand they need smarter solutions. If your workers are buried in disconnected spreadsheets full of redundant information, it may be time to explore a centralized system.
ERP solutions like security business software prevent inaccurate data and streamline digital communications. You should find a software program that features central station automation so you eliminate common causes of errors. This way, employees don’t waste time on busy work and can focus on critical tasks.
2. Don’t stifle technology enthusiasm
Employees who use Facebook and text message at work can waste a lot of valuable time, but Robert Siciliano, an IT expert, said a zero-tolerance policy isn’t the answer. If you ban social media and mobile devices from the workplace you may create a company culture that stands in opposition to modern tools.
You should provide opportunities to make mobile devices, social media or any other new computing tools part of your atmosphere. Many security dealers look for mobile-friendly software so field agents have access to the same alarm billing software as office workers. Most major companies provide customer service and marketing over social media channels.
There still have to be limits; unmonitored social browsing may waste time or cause employees to download dangerous programs on company systems. You should determine where new tools fit into your company’s mission and find ways to encourage employees to use the technology they love to help your business succeed.