After almost two years since the release of Apple’s first iPad computer, the rising demand for tablet technology continues to soar. With their convenient size, in-built keypad functionality and handwriting recognition technology, incorporating tablet devices into everyday business activities is proving beneficial to many businesses around the world.
Tablet computers have been seen acting as mobile portfolios for designers and architects, note-taking tools for use in company board meetings, for displaying presentations and as on-the go computers for mobile warehouse employees, salespeople, real estate agents and medical staff.
The benefits of using tablet technology in business can mean a reduction in paper and printing costs, improved customer service, better staff-efficiency and, in some cases, even removing the need for employing certain staff.
In addition to this, these aesthetically pleasing devices can lend businesses a certain air of high-tech sophistication and elegance which can assist in improving their company image and developing client trust.
Below are some examples of innovative ways in which businesses are taking advantage of tablet technology that one might consider for their own business:
• Scheduling client appointments with task manager apps like ‘Things’.
• Supplying delivery drivers with the ability to tap into a company’s CRM system from the road, obtain customer signatures which can be sent directly back to the office and email invoices at the customer’s door.
• Replacing wait staff with self-serve menus in restaurants – this could not only cut down costs of wages and printing hard-copy menus but it could also save time by allowing customers to quickly transmit their culinary desires directly to the kitchen and increasing the speed at which tables turn over.
• Participating in online business meetings is possible by either the 2-way audio function or via instant chat.
• Accessing and sharing files through the tablet’s easy synch and back-up capabilities.
• In industries such as the media, tablets can be given to news anchors and radio hosts to replace paper scripts and can also double as audio recording devices for a journalist’s vox-pops.
• Databases and inventory can be kept by retailers with apps like ‘Bento’ and customers can be given the opportunity to search for in-store items, make direct purchases and find out specific details about products.
• Some hotels have incorporated tablets into their guest rooms and suites, offering guests the opportunity to order room service items, make reservations, request wake-up calls and even control the lights and room temperature in their room.
• Car dealerships are utilising the technology as sales tools which can provide a salesperson with information about various car models, provide customers with interactive customisation and quicken the credit-approval process.
• One of the most impressive features is the ability to turn the device into a cash register. By attaching a special card-reader or by simply keying in the card numbers, applications such as ‘Square’ can process credit card payments and other transactions without the merchant fees involved in EFTPOS rental.
Call and speak with an Oculus business consultant. We can point you in the right direction to help get you started with new tablet technology.
