The markets are improving (so we are told) slowly but surely, and many companies are starting to breathe a little easier. But this is not a time to rest on our laurels; this is the time to re-analyse business practices and make decisions now that will safeguard your company for the future. Advances in technology over the past decade alone have pushed industries across the world into a whole new realm of possibilities. If you are looking to reduce your staffing costs over the coming years, then you should be making the most of what the modern world has to offer.

Automation

If your business has busy periods but alternatively, you don’t need a full staff member present at all times, available solutions include computer kiosk installations, which help to give your customers a speedy service that can be accessed easily. In certain stores, both staffed checkouts and automated kiosks work together to help customers to make their purchases. This also gives a choice to everyone who walks through your door, allowing them to decide which service they prefer – automated or human. These kiosks also give your employees the freedom to focus on tasks that require a human touch, such as meeting clients or discussing contracts.

Communication

Modern technology can perform many basic functions within businesses, such as re-routing calls or scheduling meetings. Hiring someone simply to fill in the gaps that you don’t have the time to focus on is not cost-effective and will hardly offer job satisfaction to anyone who does take on the role. Communication software and technology is the way forward if you want your operations run smoothly without the need for human interaction. A receptionist is important if your clients come to your office in person, but if you predominantly work via video or phone conferencing, then the latest communication software is the way to go.

Information

Cinema ticket booths, subway ticket machines and tourist information kiosks offer helpful and quick solutions and don’t require staff –  which means they can be in operation 24/7. They also reduce some of the risks associated with late night working. A single staff member working along at their station late at night is more at risk than a kiosk machine. Additionally, these automated machines remove the need for people to work unsocial hours or in unsuitable locations.

Accessibility

Kiosks are particularly helpful when you require out of hours services at your business. Gas stations, cinemas and subways offer kiosk services to customers 24 hours a day, so you don’t have to employ a staff member to cover every hour of the day. These options also allow your customers to access what they need even when they are out of the office or away from your store. Websites can now provide a range of services to consumers; everything from sorting out delivery to asking a question in real-time. With the more basic requests taken care of online, your staff members are free to focus on tasks that require their full attention.