Recent developments in communications technology, such as cloud computing, are being used to allow businesses to operate globally without sacrificing security or limiting user access. Communication is essential to successful business operations, and modern technology has become completely integrated in business interaction.
Networking
Networking allows users to communicate through traditional voice and video in a secure system. It also allows collaboration on reports, programming and other document production, taking communications beyond conversational interaction and into virtual partnerships. Networking forms the core of how most business communication is performed today and is essential, whether it means connecting to a webpage, mobile phone or using cloud-based applications.
Wireless
Wireless devices are now capable of doing everything from connecting phones to using the Internet or company network to run applications and access documents. Wireless technology is quickly evolving, with transportable products like the iPad and other tablets taking the place of pen and paper; being able to distribute information immediately from any location where a signal is available. Battery-free phones are even being developed, that can charge wirelessly on a public network, providing workers on the go with more freedom to continue communicating without the reliance of a plug socket.
The Cloud
Cloud computing provides businesses with the ability to store documents and programs in “virtual” drives or computers, which can then be accessed by any authorised user through ordinary internet connections. Cloud computing allows real-time communication and interaction exactly the way a network does, with access extended to global level. Cloud computing eliminates data lost through system crashes, avoids problems with network downtime as well as providing the ability for software upgrades to be performed network-wide by upgrading a single instance of an application. Online platforms such as Google Docs also provide cloud computing where multiple users can interact on document production in real-time.
Video Conferencing
Video conferencing has become a necessity for most offices and with the advancement of VC products, offices and homeworkers are now able to achieve incredibly clear audio and voice quality for video conferencing. However, with technology continually evolving, it is becoming an increasing expense to upgrade and maintain these systems.
The alternative is to now look at cloud-based services. Software such as Skype and Microsoft Lync now provide a way for businesses to communicate with clients and suppliers without the need for specialised equipment.
Such software have now advanced further, with companies like Deutsche Telekom offering new services such as VideoMeet, that allows you to connect call to call, irrespective of the base handle used, i.e. providers such as Skype, Google Talk and devices such as those provided by Cisco or Polycom.
Cloud-based systems such as VideoMeet do not require any installation either, meaning minimal inconvenience for employers trying to implement the new service within their companies.
These types of solutions are now a commodity in demand for business and will continue to evolve as online platforms continue to grow.
