Work from the Cloud - Part 1

In the span of a few short weeks following the implementation of COVID-19 restrictions, our collective circumstance changed dramatically. It seems like every time we turn on the news, there is less and less within our control. If you’re running your own business, it probably feels like things are spiralling much faster than you’d like - not only do you have to worry about yourself and your family, but also about creating a future-proof business that continues to employ and pay staff amidst complete uncertainty.

The keyword in that last sentence is create. It’s very hard to think about being creative or creating much of anything at all when there are so many unknowns and you feel anxious and out of control.

It’s one thing being able to plan for a lack of income, but a complete other if you are forced to figure out how to creatively sustain an existing business. Or, even more confronting, innovate in a completely new space using existing products and or skills.

Adding fuel to the fire is the fact that remote work is now inevitable which means that technology tools are more important than ever before. However, not everyone is tech-savvy and has a business that allows for a quick transition to working completely from the cloud.

Unfortunately, that’s the reality that business owners are facing. It’s adapt or innovate - staying still is just not an option. So how do you begin to approach solving these problems in your business?

Psychologically, until your own needs are met and you feel like you have some modicum of control over your current situation, there’s very little hope that you think creatively and problem solve outside the box. How do you get up to speed on technology and regain control in your business, and quickly?

Over the next few weeks, we will talk about five mini-projects you can undertake, in whatever order you like, to help your business get organised with the technology. More importantly, to help you feel more in control, know where things are at and embrace technology, even if you’re a total newbie. These ‘Work from the Cloud’ projects will discuss suggested platforms for securing passwords, managing emails, reviewing your online presence, utilising online collaboration tools or managing recurring expenses. The aim is to allow you to be able to work from anywhere, collaborate with your team and get your ducks in a row so that you can focus on the high-level strategy of moving your business forward.

To clarify - the aim of these five items is not to add to your expenses each month. There are free options for many of these tools which will simply allow you to gain a bit more visibility over your business, clear your head and ultimately free up space to focus on the larger issues going forward. Oh, and of course, you’ll be much better positioned to run your business from anywhere, securely in the cloud.

Instead of rushing into a quick fix solution, taking the time to clear the decks will allow you to clear your head and make better, more rational decisions.

Your team at RSM is here to help you navigate the next steps in your business. Contact one of our digital advisers for assistance.