| Avoid business inefficiencies |
When information and resources are shared and available when you need them, efficiency is increased in several ways-
- Sign onto the server to check the financial statement instead of waiting for a hard copy from accounting.
- Check your business e-mail while out of the office - from a remote location - as easily as if you were sitting at your desk.
- Have electronic access to the most up-to-date employee phone directory.
- Share client databases among departments and branch offices.
- Update software just once on the server and not on 20 different computers.
- Stay home during the first snowstorm of the year and access your files and phone messages electronically.
- Employees can stay connected anywhere on campus using wireless LAN capability.
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| Cut costs |
Linking computers together in a network allows you to share resources and save money. A network makes it possible to share software, printers, modems and phone lines. Multiple staff can share one color printer. Files can be saved on a central hard drive to avoid continual upgrades on individual computers. Instead of buying multiple copies of a software program, buy one network license and load the software onto your server. |
| Improve internal communications |
Your staff is more likely to share ideas and information if you make it easy to do so. E-mail makes it possible to leave long, complex messages, attach files or broadcast a change in policy. You can set up an office intranet where staff can get the latest information about shipping charges or a new employee benefit package. Today's shared scheduling and appointment software makes it easy to set up a meeting that fits everyone's calendar. Collaborative applications enable employees to communicate with each other regardless of location. Remote doesn't mean out of the loop anymore, particularly when field staff can get information at the same time as those at the head office.
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| Reduce dependency on paper |
Electronic access to central files eliminates paper waste-
- Make your employee newsletter available through the server.
- Electronically deposit your staff's checks into their bank accounts.
- E-mail the announcement introducing your new manager.
- Save money on paper, reproduction, postage, couriers and filing systems.
- Receive communications more quickly.
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| Increase revenue |
Expand your market outside your city or country by making your product or service available online. A network can enable your company provide better customer service. Clients will be impressed if staff can check the company network while on the phone and provide quick and personalized answers to their questions. Satisfied customers mean return business and referrals. Use the network to operate more efficiently, reduce overhead and to keep your clients happy. |
| Enable growth |
Growth is an obvious goal for most small and medium-sized businesses, but growing effectively can become a critical challenge. An effective network can ease growing pains by helping your employees share documents and equipment. Client or employee databases can be maintained centrally and updates seen by all users simultaneously. An effective network can also allow employees to telecommute, which reduces the need for additional office space and can increase employee satisfaction. *Information provided by Nortel. |
