Written by: Kendra Von Achen on November 3, 2011 @ 10:44 AM
You probably don’t think about what will happen if a disaster should hit, because the likelihood of that disaster hitting is probably low. I’m not talking about a meteor striking Earth or anything far-fetched. But what if you were to lose power for days on end? As I’m writing this, I’m sitting in a coffee shop because I’ve been without power for 5 days now (yes FIVE days!) so I am speaking from experience.
During this lengthy power outage, I have been fully operational as a business. My phone service forwards to my cell phone; I have been living with family who has Internet access; I have a laptop computer; and I have an online file backup system that allows me to access both my laptop and desktop files from anywhere anytime. I’m able to reach out to my team by phone or email to make sure that client projects continue to move forward despite the circumstances. And I’m personally able to work. Knowing where around town I can access wi-fi also helps!
Bear in mind, this flexibility may not fit every size business, but it should make you think about the ability for your team to work when disaster does strike. If you cannot access your phone line when the power is out, and you cannot forward your calls to another phone, you may want to consider if you are using the right phone provider for your business.
Technology can be your friend if you let it (and either know what to do or hire the right people that know what to do). Below is a checklist of five things to think about implementing in your organization for the “what if” moments.
- Online file storage/backup
- Redundant servers online
- Cloud servers (instead of in-house)
- VOIP (Voice Over IP) Phone Systems/Service
- Call Forwarding/Find Me features
- Web-based software applications (if you are using Cloud Servers, this may not be necessary)
DISCLAIMER: DB Pros does not provide or recommend these services, but uses many of them. We have strategic partners that handle many of the above options, so if you are interested, contact us and we will connect you with one of our preferred providers.
Catogories: data tools
Kendra you are right on target! Technology offers a whole host of options for a SMB owner or employee to consider. Not just in case disaster hits but also to provide perks and quality of life incentives that can replace monetary compensation. Working from home one or more days a week with instant access to all your work files can be a tremendous incentive for many employees, and many are less distracted and much more productive that way as well. Technology can make your workforce more productive, happier and increase your bottom line in many ways.
Kendra, I agree with everything you mentioned. Paul you are so right, too. In my case, I have several clients that are out of my area. Some of them require that I travel and technology allows me to work from any location in terms of prospecting and follow-up. I can also reach out to my team and keep projects moving forward. But, here’s the best use of technology; working virtually with clients that are across the country or across the globe. With tech tools, I can work with anyone who speaks English, no matter where they are.