The Intelligent Internet: Practical Business Solutions Thrive On Interactive Media
The Internet is growing up. Often, the current state of the Internet is referred to as “Internet 2.0.” The past one to three years have brought an influx of new websites based on providing practical business solutions - solutions that fulfill a specific business need such as marketing, purchasing, project management or sales. These websites typically provide a specific benefit to an industry segment or provide a specific business function across any industry. The trend is growing, as the success experienced by these organizations is incredible.
One of the most successful websites fulfilling a specific business need is SalesForce.com. In a little over a year, the company’s stock price has tripled as its subscriber base has grown substantially. SalesForce.com provides an online, on-demand CRM tool. The unique position it has in the marketplace is the low-cost of entry for its customers. The website provides a robust CRM tool that large organizations would typically spend tens of thousands of dollars on, if not a six figure investment. For a low monthly fee, companies can subscribe to the service and scale the feature set and user base specifically to their needs. Needless to say, it is one of the most successful on-demand tools in the marketplace.
How do you find these tools? Start with a quick Internet search. For example, if you need a project management solution, perform a search for “online project management software” or “on-demand project management software.” Also, check trade publications, as many of these services are starting to advertise in industry-related publications. Once you find some service providers, sign-up for a free trial to test the application if available. Look for a service that provides a feature set relevant to your organizational needs. If it is too difficult to find exactly what you need, perhaps building your own custom solution is the answer. It can be worth the cost to contract an agency to develop an application if the results from increased productivity and cost savings generate a positive ROI.
You may be thinking, “I have enough software, I don’t need more.” I feel the same way. However, life can be made easier through the right online application. A great benefit is the ability to access the application anytime from any computer with an Internet connection. I can create schedules, mark my appointment calendar, send targeted emails and more at work, at home or on the road. And I don’t even need my own computer! I can be at a friend’s or relative’s house. Other benefits include cost savings over expensive software licenses and less maintenance. The application provider updates the software so you no longer need to order upgrades and install them on your own machine, hoping that new conflicts don’t appear with your system.
The Internet has gone from hype to practicality. People and organizations are making money, saving money and becoming more productive. It’s the result of the intelligent Internet. Look for these solutions and how they can help improve your business operations. And maybe, you might even be able to invent your own and make a new business out of it!
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