Although there are still some rough spots, the general economy has a bright outlook for the year ahead and employment rates are at their highest in both US and the UK. So with business improving for most, what should we be investing in this year? Here are five important business investments to consider for 2015.
- Cloud Computing
Virtualization is one of the biggest topics of recent years in the IT circles and the cloud offering has changed dramatically to adapt to different business needs. In 2015, there will be an increase in Software as a Service (SaaS) and Platform as a Service (PaaS); these options allow small to medium enterprises to pay for applications and IT platforms as and when they need it. Moving your entire IT network to the cloud may include an initial outlay and also a period of time where your resources are tied up working on the transition, but the benefits of the cloud will help you save money in the long run.
- Digital Marketing
Digital marketing is more important than ever. Having an up to date website is vital for companies across all industries and sectors, and making sure your website gets noticed requires a digital marketing team. If your website is a retail website, a fairly aggressive strategy should be in place to ensure that you can increase website traffic. Having an in-house team or choosing the right digital marketing agency will help you transform traffic into sales – and conversions should be at the forefront of your campaign targets. For small business SEO tips, read more on Huffington Post.
- Training for Staff
The right training not only helps you hone the skills of your employees but it helps to improve staff retention. Employees are much more likely to stay in a role where they are constantly challenged and given enough opportunities to grow. A training course can help to make your team feel valued and it will also help to improve the daily processes within your business. Always choose a reputable training agency that is relevant to your industry (such as Redcliffe Training Associates for the finance and banking sector).
- Invest in Capital
Tangible assets are critical to the success of your business. Whether you operate factories, warehouses, or just need simple office equipment such as computers and printers, business assets are essential for order/service fulfilment. So making sure you have the best machinery and equipment will help you improve your business service. Assets can be attained outright, as a lease or on hire purchase.
- Trade Financing
If your customer base is quickly expanding and you are unable to keep up with the growth, don’t turn down the business to protect your cash flow. Opt for trade financing to help you cover the costs in the required timeframe. Trade financing can help you pay your suppliers on time, improving supplier relations and you can carry on business as normal whilst grabbing the opportunity for growth.
