Mobile technology is becoming the number one source for many businesses to keep teams connected, especially with the increase in a more remote workforce. As of 2011, it is estimated that 20 to 30 million people work from home offices at least one day per week, with more than 2% of the total US workforce working remotely full time. (Telework Research Network) Add to that the number of employees who rely on mobile devices to keep track of business related tasks, communication and sharing needs; and this trend packs a real punch.
A University of Maryland study conducted over a decade ago noted this development by stating that, “Mobile computing is a versatile and potentially strategic technology that improves information quality and accessibility, increases operational efficiency, and enhances management effectiveness.” This was a powerful statement that certainly rings true with today’s teams. The focus of many teams is to become efficient and produce high quality work, while freeing team members from being chained to a cubicle all day. By using mobile technology, it’s possible for greater team management, collaboration and creative input not held to the confines of one geography.
There are some intrinsic benefits of mobile technology that allow teams to work more efficiently, which we will review here.
Diverse Tools. The main advantage of using mobile devices to coordinate team effort is that there is a wide range of tools, applications and devices available. Most times, these can be a matter of personal preference for each team member, or it can provide a larger resource from which to choose the right tools from. Additionally, with today’s main manufacturers, these devices and apps can be linked via Wi-Fi and Bluetooth to talk to each other. This makes for seamless communication and sharing between team members.
Easy Access. What makes mobile devices so useful to teams is that they are a lot easier to access and use throughout the work week. This is especially true for teams who may work on the road or in remote locations around the globe. Mobile devices are generally compact, make for ease in traveling and in coordinating multiple efforts into one device. A team member may be having a conference call with other team members, while simultaneously downloading new information and getting directions to a meeting within seconds. This makes for a lot more efficiency.
Fast Response. One of the great features of mobile devices is having access to an entire computer system in the palm of your hand. This gives you the power to conduct business on the go, to better service clients with a fast response. Many mobile devices come built with business applications and resources that make team work possible in lightning speed. These can include many communication, file sharing, documentation, financial tools and more. A team can work together faster to solve a problem and to better meet the needs of customers.
The world of mobile computing continues to evolve into a powerful resource that all teams can tap into for greater cohesiveness. This makes teams more efficient that can work smarter on projects and when dealing with clients. Find out how Dale Carnegie can help your teams utilize mobile technology and other methods of improving team efficiency.
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