Digital Innovation for Hermosa Beach, CA Small Businesses: How to Stay Ahead of the Curve

Small businesses account for 66% of all new jobs created in the last twenty-five years. However, as the business landscape continues to evolve, it's becoming increasingly difficult for small businesses to keep up with the competition. One of the best ways for small businesses to level the playing field is by embracing digital innovation. Below the Hermosa Beach Chamber of Commerce shares some tips for how you can incorporate digital technology to grow your business.

Grow Sales with a Mobile App

Most Americans now own a smartphone, and many of them use their phones for everything from checking the weather to ordering takeout. McKenna Consultants argue that by creating a mobile app, you can make it easier for your customers to access your products or services on the go. In fact, many small businesses have found that developing a mobile app can help them boost sales and profits because it offers a direct line to your business. An app also allows you to provide discounts and promotions to current customers, and use these features to draw in new ones. 

Use AI Tools to Automate

Most people think of AI as advanced technology that can only be used by large businesses or governments. However, the truth is that AI tools are becoming increasingly affordable and accessible to small businesses. Many AI tools can be used to automate business processes. For example, you can use AI to automate:

• customer service tasks

• marketing tasks

• accounting tasks

Turn to IT Services

As technology becomes increasingly complex, it's difficult for small businesses to keep up with all the latest changes and updates. This is where working with an IT services provider can be extremely beneficial. An IT services provider will not only keep your systems up-to-date, but they can also provide expert guidance on selecting and implementing new technologies.  

They can also help you set up systems and processes for cybersecurity and automation. It’s important that you don’t overlook cybersecurity practices. IT professionals will likely recommend installing a firewall along with implementing password best practices, including dual-factor authentication. They can also help you train your employees on how to create a complex password and why it should be updated regularly. In addition, adding passwords to PDFs is a great way to add another security layer. There are free online PDF editors your teams can use to provide feedback on collaborative documents before they add a password. When the file is ready, simply select Protect from the Tools menu. Then, click Encrypt and Encrypt with Password. The file is now encrypted. 

Moving to the Cloud

The cloud has quickly become essential for businesses of all sizes. By moving your business to the cloud, you can take advantage of features like scalability, data security, and Disaster Recovery-as-a-Service (DRaaS). What's more, cloud computing can save you money on infrastructure costs while still providing access to powerful enterprise-grade applications.  

Use Data Analytics

Data analytics is another tool that's becoming increasingly important for businesses looking to stay ahead of the competition. Spyrosoft explains that by analyzing data, you can gain valuable insights into your customers' behavior and preferences. This information can then be used to make better decisions about marketing, product development, and operations. 

Stay Organized with Tools

Taking advantage of online project management tools is a great way to boost productivity and stay organized—two things that are essential for any growing business. These tools allow you to track progress on tasks and projects so you always know what needs to be done and when it needs to be done.    

Innovate Safely for Growth

As a small business owner, it's important to embrace digital innovation if you want your business to grow. There are many different ways you can use technology to your advantage, from creating a mobile app to using data analytics and online project management tools. But be cautious of cyberthreats as you increase your innovation. Work with a professional to ensure you have firewalls and password protections in place to keep your business safe. By taking advantage of these technologies, you'll be able put your business on the path to success.

Join the Hermosa Beach Chamber of Commerce to network with other local entrepreneurs and access valuable resources for helping your business grow.