Blog Page - Tech Research Online https://techresearchonline.com/blog/ Wed, 25 Sep 2024 17:28:50 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.6.1 https://techresearchonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/favicon.webp Blog Page - Tech Research Online https://techresearchonline.com/blog/ 32 32 What is Gamification in Education: How is It Benefitting EdTech? https://techresearchonline.com/blog/gamification-in-education/ Wed, 25 Sep 2024 17:28:50 +0000 https://techresearchonline.com/?post_type=blog&p=10396 Introduction Traditional teaching methods could be more engaging for students, leading to boredom and decreased motivation. Teachers need to solve this important issue, and the best way to do this is by introducing gamification in education. The first instance of gamification is linked to Dmitri Mendeleev, the scientist who created the Periodic Table framework. He […]

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Introduction

Traditional teaching methods could be more engaging for students, leading to boredom and decreased motivation. Teachers need to solve this important issue, and the best way to do this is by introducing gamification in education.

The first instance of gamification is linked to Dmitri Mendeleev, the scientist who created the Periodic Table framework. He loved playing card games and wrote each element and its key properties on a card for easy retention.

If this technique is adopted in schools, it will help students achieve more in their studies. How? That is what we will discuss in the rest of this article.

What is Gamification in Education?

To understand the concept of gamification, it’s important to first define what a game truly is. A game is an interactive system that starts with players being assigned abstract challenges under specific rules and ends with a quantifiable outcome.

This activity is often accompanied by excitement and engagement because it stimulates both extrinsic and intrinsic motivation in players.

Teachers want their students to feel the same way about their studies, but students don’t find the traditional teaching style interesting.

To address this, the stakeholders decided to take advantage of the rise of education software by integrating the fundamentals of gaming into the learning process.

The aim is to stimulate both extrinsic and intrinsic motivation in students while learning. This Is called gamification in education.

Benefits of Gamification in Education

1. Motivational Boost

One of the problems in schools today is the lack of academic engagement among students. This is because the students have no motivation to participate in the learning process.

education motivation

The role of motivation in the student’s success cannot be overstated, and teachers have an important role to play in this.

They have to ensure their students are motivated to learn, work hard, and push themselves to excel. One way to achieve this is through the gamification of learning processes.

With gamification comes grading systems like leaderboards, badges, and points that keep students engaged through the learning process.

One of the many tools used in the classrooms today to encourage active participation is Socrative. With its “Space Race” feature, teachers can divide their class into teams and have them compete against each other in a quiz.

Students are very competitive, but if the activity is conducted in a healthy way, it removes any form of pressure they may have, turning the competitiveness into an advantage.

2. Adaptive Learning

Adaptive learning is one of the main benefits of gamification in education. Gamification makes individualized learning styles possible in the classroom, making the learning process more inclusive for every student.

With tools like Socrative, Kahoot!, and Duolingo, a teacher can adjust the learning material’s content, pace, and difficulty based on the performance and preferences of each student.

Hence, a group of students who are yet to fully grasp the idea of series and sequences can get simpler questions while the other group works with questions that meet their level of knowledge.

The two teams or individual students will complete the course but at their individual pace, moving gradually between difficulty levels.

3. Improved Retention and Recall

Anyone who has ever played a game before understands the allure of trying to improve one’s “High score” because we know we have what it takes to do better. Gamification brings this allure into the classroom.

education software

Like in games, this learning style offers replayability, encouraging students to keep practising in order to improve their scores on the leaderboard. This results in better retention and recall of the course content.

Brainscape, for example, uses a technique called “confidence-based repetition”, where a flashcard is given to each student, and the flashcard is upgraded as their scores get better.

The card is designed to be appealing and fun to use, making the learning process more enjoyable. Thereby promoting the retention of the learning material.

This approach taps into the human’s innate desire to be better. When done properly, teachers can dramatically increase retention among their students with gamification.

4. Improved Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving Skills

Gamified classwork, quizzes, or homework encourages students to attempt questions in creative and critical manners without the fear of criticism.

This could be done by giving questions that require out of the box thinking, such as creating a virtual reality room and asking students to solve clues that would help escape the room.

According to the National Technical University of Athens, Greece, gamification improved students’ achievement by 89.45% compared to traditional teaching methods.

The most popular software used for developing this kind of quiz is Microsoft’s MimioConnect. MimioConnect is an online blended learning platform that allows teachers to augment instruction, making it easier for them to teach and students to learn.

With Mimioconnect, teachers can build game-like elements in quizzes or tests that can be scored and recorded as assessments.

By integrating gamification into education, teachers are discovering new ways to develop engagement, critical thinking, and collaboration among their students.

5. Real-Time Feedback

Gamification in education allows students to get real-time feedback on their performance and makes them understand where improvement is needed.

The feedback instills a growth mindset in the students, and when combined with a rewarding system like badges or verbal praises, it makes the learning process more engaging. It gives the students the assurance that their efforts and achievements are noticed.

Benefits of Gamification in Education

There are many Edtech tools that serve this purpose and one of them is MagicBox, an online gamified learning platform that can help teachers generate multiple-choice quizzes and provide immediate feedback about the learning process of each student.

It was developed by MagicEdTech, the 2024 winner of the 1EdTech Power Learner Award. This prestigious award highlights how big a role they play in transforming the EdTech Industry.

Wrapping Up: Where Improvement is Needed

While gamification in education has many benefits to it, there are places where improvement is needed. Among them is a proper consideration of learning materials in the usage of the gamified tools. Gamification should be a thoughtful process, not a superficial engagement.

Education stakeholders need to put systems in place to ensure teachers are using these tech tools adequately. The usage must be properly integrated into the school curriculum so that it doesn’t become a distraction.

Lastly, the stakeholders should work towards making gamified Edtech tools accessible to all students, especially those with limited access to the technology.

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Top 8 Operations Management Tools for 2024 https://techresearchonline.com/blog/operations-management-tools/ Mon, 23 Sep 2024 17:14:35 +0000 https://techresearchonline.com/?post_type=blog&p=10384 Introduction Operations management software helps businesses streamline processes for better team connectivity, productivity, and profit. These tools can help you manage projects, automate workflows, or track important metrics in your company. AI adoption, coupled with the need for process improvement and digital transformation, has diversified the field of operations management software, giving rise to innovative […]

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Introduction

Operations management software helps businesses streamline processes for better team connectivity, productivity, and profit. These tools can help you manage projects, automate workflows, or track important metrics in your company.

AI adoption, coupled with the need for process improvement and digital transformation, has diversified the field of operations management software, giving rise to innovative solutions for businesses of all sizes.

To help you find the perfect fit, we’ve curated a list of the top 8 operations management tools, each with unique features to address unique needs.

So, let’s dive in and find the right operations management tool for your business.

How to Choose the Right Operations Management Software

Selecting the right operations management software can be challenging, but here are some key factors to consider:

  • Ease of Use: If a platform has an intuitive interface and straightforward setup, you can use it immediately without extensive training.
  • Customizability: Every business has a unique way of working, so it should be possible to modify dashboards, create custom workflows, and configure task management features to fit your operations. The software should also scale and evolve with your processes.
  • Automation: Choose a tool that will reduce your manual workload by automating routine tasks like sending notifications, assigning tasks, or tracking progress. The tool should also allow you to save your workflows as templates.
  • Integration: Your operations management software should integrate with communication, accounting, CRM, or other systems that you use.
  • Works on Mobile: Whether your team works remotely or in the field, the software should offer a mobile-friendly platform that allows them to stay connected, access tasks, and update progress.
  • Reporting and Analytics: The software should generate detailed reports that support data-driven decisions.

Top 8 Operations Management Software for Your Business

1. Monday.com

monday.com project management tool

Monday.com provides tailored solutions for different use cases, including CRM, product development, and HR management. This tool allows you to run projects, track sales, or manage operations.

It comes with real-time collaboration tools that make it simple to assign tasks, set deadlines, and track progress visually. Its built-in automation and AI features help you focus more on getting things done and less on administrative work.

Collaboration on Monday.com is possible through Monday Workdocs, a document-like tool to collaborate on projects with your team without leaving your workspace.

The dashboards are customizable and can integrate with tools like Slack and Google Drive to get real-time insights on your projects.

The automation features make it easy to streamline repetitive tasks. With no coding required, you can easily set up automation to send notifications, assign tasks, set reminders, and trigger task creation based on a specific condition.

Monday.com Features

  • Kanban boards give you an at-a-glance view of your projects
  • Create a board and save it as a template
  • Gantt charts to keep track of milestones
  • Monday AI handles repetitive work, marketing tasks, workflow building, and data analysis
  • Teams can collaborate on Monday Workdocs
  • Customize automation to fit your team’s workflow and integrate with tools like Google Calendar and Dropbox

2. FAT FINGER

fat finger tool for project management

When you need a tool but don’t have one, how about building one?

That’s what FAT FINGER lets you do. FAT FINGER combines simplicity and power to offer a fast and intuitive platform for building enterprise applications and automating processes.

With FAT FINGER, you can create digital workflows across different use cases in your company.

For example, if your transport department wants to keep tabs on its fleet of trucks, you can build a journey management workflow. Better yet, you can adopt one of FAT FINGER’s workflows and tailor them to your liking.

FAT FINGER works on mobile and integrates with your current systems and IoT devices for automated monitoring. Moreover, if your work involves intricate details, you can access your workflows straight on your VR glasses. You can even access videos and diagrams on your smart glasses!

It’s also built with safety in mind, offering tools for incident reporting, risk assessments, and safety inspections. Think of it as your go-to tool for digitizing your operations.

FAT FINGER’s Features

  • Drag & Drop workflow builder lets you turn old paper checklists into digital workflows in minutes
  • You can build workflows by scanning QR codes
  • User-friendly interface and customizable workflows
  • SOC-2 Certified
  • Create unlimited ingenious procedures with no coding skills required
  • Task assignment, including reoccurring tasks
  • Automatic alerts notify teams of tasks assigned to them
  • Build collaborative workflows with conditional logic and multi-stage approvals
  • AI Coach to guide users along the way
  • Integrates with enterprise systems
  • Customizable, real-time dashboards

3. Asana

Asana task management tool

Asana is a project management tool designed to help teams collaborate, organize tasks, and manage workflows efficiently.

For example, marketing teams can use Asana to coordinate campaigns, manage content calendars, and track performance metrics, while product teams can use it for road mapping and product launch planning.

It’s packed with features like customizable project views (lists, boards, timelines), automation for repetitive tasks, and integration with other tools like Slack, Google Workspace, and Jira.

Asana also provides goal-tracking tools, reporting, and a broad range of templates to fit different project needs.

One of Asana’s standout features is its flexibility in adapting to different project management styles. Your team can choose between Kanban boards, Gantt charts, or simple task lists. Additionally, it offers strong automation features so users can set rules to minimize manual work.

Overall, Asana is suitable for teams of all sizes and is designed to help teams stay organized and collaborate efficiently on simple or complex tasks.

Asana Features

  • Customizable project views (lists, boards, timelines)
  • Automation for recurring tasks
  • Goal tracking and reporting
  • Integration with tools like Slack, Google Workspace, and Jira
  • Templates for various project types
  • Task dependencies and milestones

4. ClickUp

clickUp operations management tool

Versatility is one of the best qualities in any software, and when it comes to ClickUp, we’d say it ranks high on that scale – you can adapt it to individual project needs without it feeling too complicated or “heavy” or to corporate needs, such as large team collaboration projects, without it feeling too simplistic. For instance, corporate teams can collaborate on marketing projects, brainstorm, and build an entire project on the whiteboard.

ClickUp handles unlimited tasks and supports unlimited spaces and custom views—list, box, board, tab, calendar, embed, and Gantt, among others.

Organization is a crucial quality in project management. ClickUp brings organization to your work with spaces, folders, and lists that support statuses such as active, in progress, concept, review, and done.

Interestingly, ClickUp is intuitive enough to detect the status of lists within a folder or conflicting statuses of tasks moved to another folder and call out the issue with an error message.

ClickUp’s automation feature is powered by ClickUp Brain (ClickUp’s AI), which lets you automate repetitive tasks, marketing campaigns, customer management, IT dev Ops work, and internal search with simple commands. What’s more, you don’t need to take days building complicated automation workflows because Click Up Brain can do it for you.

ClickUp has it all, even CRM capabilities. So, if you want to stay organized, collaborate seamlessly, and get things done while gaining access to countless free surprise features every week, give ClickUp a go.

ClickUp Features

  • A detailed dashboard helps to manage workloads, set goals, and monitor key metrics
  • Team collaboration through a whiteboard, email, comments, chat, and document sharing
  • Custom fields to tailor any task list with information and data unique to your business
  • Automation with ClickUp Brain
  • Highly organized with spaces, lists, and folders

5. Kissflow

kissflow task management tool

Like FAT FINGER, Kissflow is another tool suitable for any organization that wants to take digital transformation organization-wide.

This low-code platform allows non-technical users to build, deploy, and manage enterprise-grade applications quickly and efficiently. Through Kissflow’s citizen development initiative, your DevOps team can invite anyone to build applications. This means HR teams, finance, sales, retail, operations, and more can collaboratively customize applications for their specific needs. HR teams can, for instance, build apps to streamline employee onboarding, feedback, performance reviews, and expense claims.

Besides process automation, Kissflow is also an excellent tool for legacy modernization. If your company is operating on old systems, you can use Kissflow to build new applications.

Speaking of outdated systems, if you’re using Lotus Notes, migrating to Kissflow is easy and has benefits like allowing you to work collaboratively in Office 365 and Google WorkSpace.

Kissflow’s Features

  • No-code or low-code tools to build enterprise apps
  • Boards provide complete visibility into projects and tickets
  • Customizable views and workflows
  • Drag and drop forms for capturing data
  • Real-time reporting & Analytics
  • Use ready-made templates or customize your own
  • Collaborative features
  • Integration with other tools
  • External Portals securely give system access to customers, vendors, or partners
  • Decision Tables for better decision-making logic

6. ProofHub

proofhub management tool
If you’re looking for an efficient project management tool that can handle projects across your entire organization, try ProofHub. It’s great for setting up workflows that fit any team or department for in-house and client projects.

For example, teams can easily collaborate across departments by keeping all their tasks, files, and conversations in one place. They can create custom workflows, plan roadmaps, manage tasks, and communicate in real time.

More so, if your teams work remotely, Proofhub’s task management tools let you adjust task timelines for specific time zones. For agile teams, you can easily manage scrum sprints, create roadmaps, and track deadlines.

Use timesheets and time estimates to track time spent on tasks and ensure adherence to deadlines.

ProofHub’s Features

  • Assign tasks and subtasks, add custom fields, and set priorities
  • Task dependencies and timelines
  • Communication features: real-time chats, group discussions, @mentions
  • Collaboration features: Proofing, file sharing, and notes
  • Multi-project views such as Gantt charts, Kanban boards, calendars, and tables
  • Build custom team workflows and set milestones, notifications, and approvals
  • Insightful reports like workload distribution
  • Can integrate with Dropbox, Google Drive, and OneDrive
  • Suitable for marketing, cross-departmental collaboration and educational institutions

7. Connecteam

connecteam tool for management
Employee management involves many moving parts and takes a lot of time.

Imagine having to get up from your desk every time you needed to get something from an employee, walk down to HR every time you needed a new hire, or call an employee every time there’s a work deadline.

Connecteam eliminates the need to do all these things by combining all aspects of employee management—operations, communication, and HR—into one mobile phone app.

Despite handling all these tasks, Connecteam is simple and easy to navigate. A live overview dashboard keeps you on top of everything that’s going on in your team, letting you give guidance, respond to queries, delegate, and manage employee activity for employees in remote locations.

Connecteam simplifies daily operations with smart time tracking, automated timesheets, and easy scheduling.

The task management feature lets you schedule shifts, track time and attendance, create checklists for different tasks, and manage tasks in real time.

Team communication on Connecteam is possible through the company newsfeed—perfect for updates—and secure chat, perfect for one-on-one or group communication.

Connecteam’s Features

  • Easy to use and navigate
  • Overview dashboard
  • Geolocation to track employees
  • Smart time tracking
  • Automation features
  • HR features like managing time-off requests and training

8. NetSuite

netsuite management tool for tasks
If you’re a medium-sized or enterprise business looking for an all-in-one solution for supply, customer relationship, and financial management, consider NetSuite. This cloud-based software is packed with tools that simplify business management by streamlining operations, saving time, and giving you insights to help your business grow.

Here’s how NetSuite can benefit your business:

  • NetSuite’s ERP system integrates AI, automation, and analytics into every process so you can easily manage your finances, inventory, orders, supply chain, and global business.
  • NetSuite accounting simplifies accounting, from recording transactions to closing the books. You can automate routine tasks like accounts payable and receivable to reduce manual effort and minimize the risk of errors.
  • NetSuite’s CRM system provides a holistic view of your data, helping you build better relationships with your customers, vendors, and partners.
  • HR Management tools automate payroll and help with performance management, task scheduling, attendance tracking, and remote worker management.
  • NetSuite’s commerce brings all your B2C, B2B, or in-store sales channels under one roof. You can integrate your commerce operations, eliminating the need for complex integrations, saving time, and reducing costs.

NetSuite Features

  • Analytics & reporting tools with real-time reports, dashboards, and data warehouses
  • Powered by AI
  • A fully customizable platform
  • AI capabilities automate routine tasks, predict trends, and uncover valuable insights
  • Different tools for different use cases
  • Financial management tools to plan, budget, and forecast effectively

In Conclusion: Which Operations Management Software Should You Choose?

Choosing the right operations management software can make a difference in how smoothly your business runs. Luckily, the tools discussed here tick all the right boxes when it comes to features:

  • An all-in-one platform so you can manage everything from a single dashboard
  • Strong task management and resource planning tools to keep your operations seamless
  • Real-time updates, data visualization, and reporting features
  • Collaboration features that promote effective communication
  • A tool that scales with your business
  • Ability to code your tools when there’s nothing in the market to address your needs

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Top Cybersecurity Threats for Accounting Firms and How to Prevent Them https://techresearchonline.com/blog/cybersecurity-threats-for-accounting-firms/ Fri, 20 Sep 2024 17:28:22 +0000 https://techresearchonline.com/?post_type=blog&p=10364 Introduction Advancements in cloud computing and migrating sensitive financial data to cloud-based software have seen a rise in cybersecurity threats for accounting firms. Financial institutions must understand that the sensitivity and confidentiality of their database make them a top target. Therefore, carelessly clicking an unverified link with the company’s device can compromise the firm and […]

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Introduction

Advancements in cloud computing and migrating sensitive financial data to cloud-based software have seen a rise in cybersecurity threats for accounting firms. Financial institutions must understand that the sensitivity and confidentiality of their database make them a top target. Therefore, carelessly clicking an unverified link with the company’s device can compromise the firm and cause data breaches within seconds.

This guide explains the leading cyber threats that accountants must watch out for to prevent granting access to hackers. What are these possible data breaches or IT security loopholes that expose your certified public accountant (CPA) firm to the risk of infiltration by cybercriminals?

1. Phishing Attacks

The common phishing technique by cybercriminals is sending a malicious email as if it were from a trusted source. This cybersecurity threat to accounting firms is to trick the recipient into clicking a link that might compromise their security frameworks. The hacker’s objective is to get them to divulge sensitive or highly classified information.

phishing attack

CPA firms must train their accountants on identifying phishing scams and security procedures like checking for possible spoofing or hovering over links to confirm the source. Additional security protocols include cross-checking the source through calls or other secondary verification methods before sharing confidential accounting data. Falling victim to a phishing attempt can lead to the download of corruptible data that infiltrates your cybersecurity walls.

2. Outdated Software and Patching

Running on outdated accounting software or security patches is another of the top cybersecurity threats for accounting firms. Large companies entrusted with multiple customer data must be ready to continually invest in the best cloud security tools.

Otherwise, they become easy targets to cybercriminals who can take advantage of the security risks of using outdated operating systems and cloud-based accounting software. End-to-end point encryption is also essential if you want to prevent risks of cyber hacking. Maintaining updated software, browsers and other financial tools makes it easy for your security service providers to identify potential data breaches before an issue occurs.

3. Ransomware

Imagine encrypting your files with a password and forgetting it. Well, that is how ransomware works. The only difference is this time, the cybercriminal is the one encrypting the accounting files or software. The objective of ransomware attacks is to corrupt financial systems, making the data impossible to access.

Ransomware hackers usually demand money as “ransom” which is tricky because paying the anonymous cybercriminals is likely another scam. There is no guarantee of receiving an encryption key from them. In severe cases of these cybersecurity threats for accounting firms, the hackers can threaten to destroy the data or leak it on unwanted databases. Common modes of ransomware cyber-attacks are phishing scams or downloading from untrusted websites. Unprotected downloads should never be carried out from your company’s computers.

4. Insider Threats

By “insider threats”, we refer to cybersecurity threats due to unsuspecting employees mostly through unsafe but unintentional actions. Examples include connecting personal work computers to a public network while working on sensitive data. Setting up weak passwords through which hackers can access other linked accounts also falls on the list of insider cybersecurity threats for accounting firms.

On the other hand, intentional cyber threats are when an employee or someone with privileged data access deliberately makes the security framework vulnerable to hackers. This could involve connecting a spoofed hardware or installation of malware. IT security departments can try employing the principle of least privilege to limit the possibilities of unintentional insider threats.

5. Cloud Security Vulnerabilities

Preventing the use of unauthorized devices to access financial information on an accounting firm’s database can reduce cloud security risks. This goes against the common “bring your own device” policy used in some organizations that work with very little sensitive information.

For accounting companies that use cloud-based software, managing sensitive customer information requires working on only recognized devices. This includes using only approved software or cloud computing platforms to access accounting data. Compliance with industry-regulated data policies is the best step to securing cloud-native applications from cybersecurity threats for accounting firms.

6. Third-Party Vendors

CPA firms should go beyond enforcing stringent cybersecurity practices within their accounting firewalls. Learning how to manage sensitive data with third-party vendors is equally important. Otherwise, it is like building a high fence but leaving a small passage without a gate. You must secure how third parties interact with your cybersecurity systems and the level of permission you grant them.

Threats for Accounting Firms

Another way to prevent third-party cybersecurity threats for accounting firms is to ensure they also have security compliance and incident response strategies. You can use cyber risk management auditors to assess fourth-party compliance. A zero-trust data access is also a continuous cyber risk assessment method to verify third-party access to security systems.

7. DNS Spoofing

Lack of DNS security extensions (DNSSEC) or poor encryption of your DNS traffic over HTTP or TLS can make it easy for cyber attackers to spoof DNS queries. DNS spoofing, also known as DNS cache poisoning, is a cyber threat where hackers corrupt the domain name system (DNS) to redirect traffic to a malicious website. Proper DNS spoofing scams are difficult to detect because the redirected website appears exactly as legitimate.

DNS spoofing cybersecurity threats for accounting firms usually aims to steal clients’ data like tax portal information or sensitive login credentials. Information from DNS spoofing scams could even be used for phishing to impersonate employees and intercept email communications or financial transactions.

Updating Employees on Cybersecurity Threats for Accounting Firms

Training your employees on the latest cybersecurity practices is important, regardless of whether you run a cloud accounting or traditional accounting system. However, CPA accounting firms on cloud-based solutions must be vigilant since they stand a higher risk of ransomware or malicious data access. The best cybersecurity practices include establishing hierarchical access to financial data among your employees.

Additionally, ensure that employees gain the necessary knowledge on how to identify cyber scams before they are granted clearance to more sensitive financial information.

Conclusion

Understanding the top cybersecurity threats for accounting firms is the first step towards preventing revenue or financial data loss to cyber scammers. This is why we encourage CPA firms to invest in continuous training programs for their accountants on the best cybersecurity practices.

The easiest way to avoid a cyber scam is to limit the possibilities by avoiding loopholes in your internal security frameworks. Data sharing with third parties and accessibility through outside devices must be controlled. Enforcing cyber safety practices is easier when you get started with our guide on overcoming the challenges of cyber resilience.

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The Rise of Education Software: How AI is Personalizing Learning Experiences https://techresearchonline.com/blog/rise-of-ai-in-education-software/ Wed, 18 Sep 2024 17:47:47 +0000 https://techresearchonline.com/?post_type=blog&p=10248 Introduction Before the rise of education software, the most effective teaching method was ‘teach to the middle.’ This method was developed to balance teaching since students in a classroom are expected to have varying skill levels and learning abilities. Although it helped to some extent, it did not help students achieve their maximum potential. With […]

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Introduction

Before the rise of education software, the most effective teaching method was ‘teach to the middle.’ This method was developed to balance teaching since students in a classroom are expected to have varying skill levels and learning abilities.

Although it helped to some extent, it did not help students achieve their maximum potential. With the rise of Education software, Students can now sit in the same classroom with the same teacher and learn at their own pace.

Today, Education software like Dreambox uses machine learning to gain insights into individual students’ strengths, needs, and preferences. These tools, like robots are changing the EDTech industry, resulting in improved academic performance and heightened student engagement.

4 Ways AI is Personalizing Learning Experiences

1. Adaptive Learning

The traditional curricula that we’ve been used to are static. However, with adaptive learning, the curricula become dynamic, evolving with each learner’s capabilities and understanding.

AI-powered adaptive learning tools analyze information about each student’s struggles and strengths to adjust the pace of delivery and course content accordingly. This approach results in better retention and improved overall learning outcomes.

adaptive learning

The role of AI in achieving adaptive learning isn’t just customizing course content; it ensures active engagement with the course content. A popular example of a software that has successfully integrated adaptive learning is DreamBox Math. This K-8 online educational software is built to create immersive and interactive maths lessons that make learning fun.

With DreamBox Math, you will get valuable adaptive learning solutions proven by several third-party organizations to accelerate student math growth and achievement.

2. Support for Special Education

Another way AI is improving learning experiences is through education softwares that provides support for special education.

Some students have distinct learning needs in the classroom due to physical, mental, emotional, or behavioral conditions. The traditional class setting doesn’t often help them, but AI can help address their challenges.

For instance, we now have AI-powered speech recognition software like PODD Communication Books, which teachers can use to help students who cannot communicate effectively.

special education

PODD is a symbol-based communication system developed for non-verbal individuals. The student can select images, words, or short phrases from the books to instantly generate sentences on a tablet or device to express themselves.

Similarly, AI-powered predictive text tools, like Co: Writer, help dyslexic students with their writing. They suggest likely words based on what the student has typed so far, reducing spelling challenges.

These AI tools are not only making education accessible to students with special needs but also ensuring that they can participate as much as every other student in the class during the learning process.

3. Intelligent Tutoring Systems

Another achievement of AI in personalizing learning experiences is through Intelligent tutoring systems.

It is expected that a student will experience difficulty with a topic that others are already good at. Intelligent tutoring systems can help the student without slowing down the learning process of other students. This tool serves as a private tutor for the student.

Intelligent tutoring systems have engaging features like gamification that make the learning process interactive. In fact, with these tools, students can virtually talk to the AI tutor, providing them with one-on-one guidance. Since these tools are available 24×7, i.e., even after class, students can get the help they require whenever needed.

One of the common intelligent tutoring tools in America is Khanmigo, developed by Khan Academy. It serves as a virtual tutor and debate partner for students and can be used by teachers to create lesson plans for individual students.

intelligent tutoring system

According to Forbes research, 97% of students favor having an intelligent tutoring system, and only a few expressed disagreement. Thanks to Microsoft making Khanmigo free for teachers, every school can integrate intelligent tutoring systems into their learning process.

4. Personalized Evaluation and Assessment

After learning, there has to be an assessment. AI is not only used to learn in a fun way, it is also used to conduct periodic evaluations of the knowledge acquired during the learning process.

With AI, teachers can develop assessments specific to each student’s optimal challenge level and give feedback to each student—a process that used to require many teaching hours.

One common educational software for personalized evaluation and assessment is Class Companion. With Class Companion, the teacher can develop personalized lessons, worksheets, and assignments. It also allows teachers to choose the assignment format, whether multiple-choice, short-answer, or math/coding problems.

When students submit practice work via the Class Companion app or browser, they immediately receive feedback on their answers, with detailed explanations for why responses are right or wrong. They can resubmit answers to practice challenging problems.

With AI, evaluation, and assessment are transformed from a tedious and non-interactive process into a seamless and interactive one, helping students achieve their maximum potential.

Wrapping Up: The Future of AI-Powered Personalized Learning

The future of education is promising as AI continues to personalize learning experiences. However, we must understand that embracing AI doesn’t mean replacing teachers. Nothing can replace high-quality human-to-human interaction. AI will evaluate that interaction and use it to improve the quality of education delivered by teachers.

In fact, one key area that needs serious attention is the training of educators on how to use AI tools like education softwares to improve traditional teaching practices.

This further proves that the importance of artificial intelligence in education is needed to provide interactive learning experiences to students in the classroom. This can be done by using AI-generated robots to transfer data that can be personalized to each student’s needs and queries. Perhaps we will have an AI-powered tutoring system that considers students’ interests, abilities, socio-emotional state, and long-term goals to create personalized curricula.

We can also look forward to a world where education is modified for students all over the world, regardless of geographical or socioeconomic barriers, to have access to high-quality learning resources. This means a student in a third-world country can have the same quality of education as a student in a first-world country. This isn’t a distant reality; it’s the direction we’re heading.

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7 Benefits of CRM Software for Growing Businesses https://techresearchonline.com/blog/benefits-of-crm-software/ Mon, 16 Sep 2024 08:50:32 +0000 https://techresearchonline.com/?post_type=blog&p=10240 Introduction The major benefits of CRM software for effective customer relationship management are focused on making your clients happy. Satisfied customers mean better business relationships, which translates to more sales and profits. As a business owner, effective customer success strategies through personalized communications can help retain your loyal clients. However, customer relationships become tricky as […]

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Introduction

The major benefits of CRM software for effective customer relationship management are focused on making your clients happy. Satisfied customers mean better business relationships, which translates to more sales and profits.

As a business owner, effective customer success strategies through personalized communications can help retain your loyal clients. However, customer relationships become tricky as you aim to attract more buyers without ignoring the existing ones. That is when customer relationship management software becomes essential.

We explain the benefits of CRM software for growing businesses that want to boost sales without compromising customer satisfaction. Before that, let’s understand how customer relationship management (CRM) software works.

What is CRM Software?

CRM software is a customer relationship management solution that helps businesses collect and manage customer data for better client-business relationships. CRM systems bridge the customer information gap between departments of a growing business. When a prospect interacts with your marketing, support, or accounting team, CRM software ensures the data collected is centrally available to all members in real time.

customer relationship management

Businesses operating omnichannel customer service also require a CRM (customer relationship management) tool to achieve personalized customer support goals across all touchpoints. Many CRM software uses cloud computing tools to enable seamless access to data from employees anywhere via multiple devices.

7 Benefits of CRM Software

The advantages of excellent customer relationship management practices cut across how business owners can use cloud-based solutions to improve customer relationships. All the benefits of CRM software revolve around this one big purpose, and we check them out.

1. Better customer knowledge and communication

The biggest challenge in establishing a strong connection with customers is discovering who they are, what they like, and what interests them. However, modern CRM tools provide solutions to that. When a customer interacts with your business, this customer relationship management software tracks their actions and preferences.

Whether they search for a product or respond to a promotional email, CRMs can follow their electronic footprints to develop a buyer persona. These enhance sales communications thanks to the benefits of CRM software in collecting essential customer information such as full name, email address, or contact numbers.

2. Centralized customer data systems

We already know how CRM systems collect customer information to build client communications. However, the benefits of CRM software also include compiling those data into a central database accessible to team members. While ensuring strong business-customer bonds, customer relationship management systems allow better employee-employee collaborations.

centralized customer data system

The centralized customer databases use cloud computing solutions for real-time data access and collaboration. Employees remain on the same page, understand their roles better, and know exactly how to contribute to improving services to the customer.

3. Discover and convert leads

Growing businesses with customer relationship management software are better positioned to attract and nurture new clients. Whether social media advertising, podcast ads, or email marketing, a CRM platform can help track the most important marketing channels.

It provides access to important user activity data on your business pages to discover your most effective marketing strategies. For example, you can identify the top-performing keywords or most optimized content. The benefits of CRM software in providing a comprehensive overview of customers’ journeys are useful for increasing lead conversion rates.

4. Automate routine sales and marketing processes

Automation of your customer relationship management process is another advantage of CRM software. Building and maintaining personalized client interactions becomes challenging as your customer base increases. At some point, it becomes stressful to manually follow up on new customers such as requesting feedback and product surveys.

Using CRM platforms solves these challenges for growing business. With cloud-based customer management tools, you can automate the system to send thousands of emails at the same time. Business owners can also integrate AI in customer success solutions to manage multiple tickets.

5. More informed decision-making

Customer relationship management software has data analytical features that help interpret useful insights about clients. Scattered customer data that would have normally not made much difference are now collected centrally on a dashboard and compared with other information.

Sales departments that explore these benefits of CRM software can confidently analyze previous marketing trends to make better decisions. By analyzing the success of their last targeted campaigns, it is possible to make positive data-driven suggestions. Targeting your audience and organizing leads into categories like demographics, occupation or age becomes easier.

6. Improved customer retention rates

Businesses must learn how to capitalize on the 74% of their customers who feel loyal to the brand. This is important, especially since returning customers tend to spend 67% more than new customers.

Tailoring the benefits of CRM software towards your customer satisfaction and communication is the way to enjoy data insights to understand and retain loyal clients while aiming for more. By making informed decisions, you can speedily resolve support tickets and alert sales representatives on opportunities to make customers happy.

7. Increase profits and revenue

The different benefits of CRM software for growing business ultimately translate to better sales numbers and making more money. For example, businesses using CRM platforms to improve customer retention rates account for 41% of their revenue from only 8% repeating buyers.
increase profit and revenue by CRM software
Improving retention rates and making customers happy through automated support and better communication can make them buy from you over more expensive market competitors. Another importance of customer relationship management software in boosting profits is helping you identify your most effective digital marketing approach to optimize advertising costs.

Examples of CRM Software for Growing Businesses

Learn the top customer relationship management tools and how to pick CRM software for your business. Popular CRM platforms to consider are:

  • Hubspot
  • Salesforce
  • Zoho Corporation
  • Microsoft Dynamics 365
  • Zendesk

The best CRM software for your business will be the platform that ticks your boxes first for:

  • Prices and the possibility of a free trial
  • Easy-to-navigate interface
  • Technical support
  • Marketing automation features
  • Third-party integrations
  • Reports and analytics
  • Data privacy compliance

Conclusion

Establishing better customer relationships summarizes the overall benefits of CRM software for every growing business. By tracking and collating customer information into central management systems, sales teams can improve their business communications. This is possible through better knowledge of the client preferences to enhance retention rates through quicker services and data-driven decisions.

Are you looking to learn more about CRM software? Check out our customer relationship management guide. You should follow through with the listed software features to help you implement CRM advantages in your business growth strategies.

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The Key Differences Between Cloud Accounting and Traditional Accounting Systems https://techresearchonline.com/blog/cloud-accounting-vs-traditional-accounting/ Fri, 13 Sep 2024 09:02:04 +0000 https://techresearchonline.com/?post_type=blog&p=10225 Introduction The choice of cloud accounting vs. traditional accounting is a major decision for business owners looking to manage their financial data effectively. Technological advancements have seen people switch from manual bookkeeping and desktop-based software to cloud computing operations. While this promises great prospects, you must know which alternative best suits your business needs. This […]

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Introduction

The choice of cloud accounting vs. traditional accounting is a major decision for business owners looking to manage their financial data effectively. Technological advancements have seen people switch from manual bookkeeping and desktop-based software to cloud computing operations. While this promises great prospects, you must know which alternative best suits your business needs.

This article helps you decide if locally storing your data on company servers or physical ledgers meets your organization’s current needs. It also assists companies looking to scale up their numbers in determining whether to migrate to cloud-based systems or a software-as-a-service platform.

Keep reading to understand the key differences between cloud accounting and traditional accounting for organizations aiming for improved financial systems.

What is Cloud Accounting?

Cloud accounting is the use of software-as-a-service (SaaS) solutions to manage and process financial information by storing it in the cloud instead of local computers or paper records. This type of accounting is great for teams that need synchronized data access across business devices.

cloud accounting

For example, every financial transaction automatically updates and is accessible in real-time on remote servers. It allows for quicker and data-driven decisions to meet up with the frequent market needs.

What is Traditional Accounting?

Traditional accounting is a desktop-based financial management system that uses local computers, physical servers, or ledgers. It is a conventional record-keeping method that is similar to manual bookkeeping practices and limited to specific devices or locations. Unlike cloud-native applications, traditional accounting requires manual backups and updates which are time-consuming and error-prone. However, some businesses find advantages of traditional accounting in its suitability for on-premise financial data control. The major limitation is restriction in real-time collaboration and data sharing.

traditional accounting

What are the Differences Between Cloud Accounting and Traditional Accounting Software?

Learn about the functions to decide between cloud accounting vs traditional accounting.

1. Cost-effectiveness

The overall running cost of both financial management systems is the first difference between cloud accounting and traditional accounting. With cloud-based software, you only subscribe for specific features with lower startup prices. Your business uses accounting software with different subscription plans to choose the most relevant features based on start-up needs. It is different from traditional or desktop accounting where you spend on purchasing different hardware and software and setting them up. Traditional accounting can also include the cost of updating licensing packages and money for frequent upgrades and additional storage, unlike cloud-based data tools.

2. Remote Collaborations

Another difference between cloud accounting and traditional accounting is the possibility of remote team collaborations on cloud-based financial applications. Organizations with many employees will function more effectively when members can collectively access the same documents in real-time. It is faster than having only one person or one physical company branch work on financial records at a time. The increased accessibility and collaborative features of accounting clouds reduce room for errors that might occur when manually transferring records to different files.

3. Data Storage and Security

Compared to traditional accounting, cloud-based solutions offer you higher storage capacity and accessibility over multiple company devices. Data security is also one of the differences between cloud accounting and traditional accounting. Locally storing your financial data on physical computers exposes the organization to the risk of data loss from hardware failure or theft. With cloud accounting, there is enhanced security through encryption and real-time backups over the use of passwords to protect sensitive financial information. Your company is also protected against personal loss of data if an unexpected issue happens with cloud accounting than with traditional accounting software.

4. Integration

The seamless integration of cloud-based accounting systems with third-party applications such as CRM software helps with important automation. Businesses can efficiently compile their financial data such as inventory management numbers instead of manual traditional accounting entry using Ms-Excel or similar data entry tools. The integration is a major difference between cloud accounting and traditional accounting with cloud-based solutions providing accurate reports that are not time-consuming. Tracking important sales records is also easier using cloud accounting since you can integrate billing systems with your payment processing platforms.

5. Technical Support

Cloud accounting software providers usually offer 24/7 technical support to ensure immediate resolution of issues faced by users. Business accountants using cloud-based solutions can always contact technical staff online or through chat without traveling long distances for fixes. This ease of promptly fixing software issues is another difference between cloud accounting and traditional accounting. The availability of cloud-based tools for remote technical support teams enhances effectiveness for larger organizations over traditional accounting support that is physically restricted with limited working hours.

technical support

Scalability and Functionality

A good business accounting solution is only complete when you consider flexible scalability options. As your company sales numbers improve, you might require more data storage capacity or higher analytical features to observe customer insights. The major differences between cloud accounting and traditional accounting include scalability and functionality plans. Since cloud accounting is mostly subscription-based, you simply need to just upgrade to higher-paid plans. However, traditional accounting might require investing or purchasing more desktops or systems to store more data or accommodate more team members.

Cloud Accounting vs. Traditional Accounting: Which One Is Best for Your Business?

Learn the factors to compare the differences between cloud accounting and traditional accounting.

  • Data Control: Traditional accounting is better for small and medium-sized enterprises that prefer full control measures such as on-premise information sharing.
  • Budget: For some people, a one-time setup and purchasing cost is better to get started than saving for continuous subscription costs. While cloud accounting setup is cheaper, the choice depends on your company’s preferences.
  • Long-term Stability: Your firm might not need to switch to cloud-based financial software if you are already invested in traditional accounting without issues.
  • Security Preference: Some organizations with very sensitive information can prefer to not store their confidential information online. However, cloud security works for smaller firms that might need a safe network for data collaborations.
  • Work Flexibility: Organizations with remote teams that need to access relevant financial data should choose cloud accounting for better workflow and effectiveness. Traditional accounting is for those teams around the same physical location and without the need to jointly access files.

Conclusion

The differences between cloud accounting and traditional accounting are important when deciding on a financial management method. While both accounting systems are excellent, they have advantages and disadvantages that determine suitability for specific business expectations.

Organizations with an existing local accounting setup for a smaller team might maintain their traditional method instead of switching to a cloud-based solution. However, the same company can opt for cloud accounting to scale up and accommodate more teams.

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Understanding the Roles of Quality Assurance and Quality Control https://techresearchonline.com/blog/quality-assurance-and-quality-control/ Mon, 09 Sep 2024 17:20:03 +0000 https://techresearchonline.com/?post_type=blog&p=9998 Introduction The primary goal of every company, regardless of industry, is to create products that foster customer retention, build trust, and drive consistent revenue growth. One way to achieve this is through quality management which covers a range of customer success activities including quality assurance and quality control. These two terms are often confused with […]

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Introduction

The primary goal of every company, regardless of industry, is to create products that foster customer retention, build trust, and drive consistent revenue growth. One way to achieve this is through quality management which covers a range of customer success activities including quality assurance and quality control. These two terms are often confused with each other. In fact, some have normalized using them interchangeably.

The confusion is understandable since they are interrelated aspects of quality management that ensure products meet the industry standard. But that doesn’t mean we have to ignore their obvious differences.

While their intentions are similar, their approaches differ. Understanding these differences will help a company follow due process to produce and maintain high-quality products or services.

At the end of this article, you will understand the differences between Quality Assurance and Quality Control, and their relationship, with clear examples to illustrate what they mean.

What is Quality Assurance?

Quality assurance is an aspect of quality management. It ensures procedures are taken to keep quality high and uniform during production. The process covers all aspects of product development, from raw material and human resources to process validation.

Quality assurance requires planning, testing, and monitoring to achieve its goal. The test has to be carried out and passed before production starts. Then, the production process is monitored to ensure the standards are followed strictly.

quality assurance

If the standardized method is deviated during the test, the quality assurance inspectors ensure necessary adjustments are made to prevent defects.

Quality assurance saves fleet management companies from costly recalls. A software company for example wouldn’t want a major bug discovered after the product has been launched. That would ruin the reputation of the company. Quality assurance can help prevent this from happening. It is very important, and that’s why it is handled at the managerial level.

Quality Assurance Process

  • Step 1: The quality assurance inspection team defines and documents the standard procedures to be followed in the production process. This offers clarity to the workers and reduces the risks of defects.
  • Step 2: The inspection team then trains the employees on the processes, guidelines, and quality standards. It ensures everyone is on the same page and is fully aware of their responsibilities.
  • Step 3: The inspection agents assess and evaluate the production process at intervals. This is done to ensure they remain in line with the predefined standards. They also collect and compare data to identify where adjustment is needed.
  • Step 4: If they discover a deviation from the predefined standard, they start analyzing the possible cause. Once they are confident of the cause, they put corrective measures in place.

What is Quality Control?

Quality control is the aspect of quality management that ensures that final products meet the industry’s criteria. This involves inspecting, testing, and evaluating the product during or after production. This is done to detect any deviation from the standards.
The most crucial point about quality control is that it detects errors already made. This is different from quality assurance, which is a pre-production process.

During quality control, all the factors involved in the production are reviewed. The deviations are recorded and reported to the management, which decides the next step of action.

quality control
There may be slight changes in the process across different industries depending on the specific requirements and customer expectations. Quality control in manufacturing isn’t exactly the same as in the software industry. But at the end of the day, The purpose of quality control is to provide confidence that a product is safe and effective.

Quality Control Process

  • Step 1: Careful examination of the finished products for visible defects. This ensures that the product reaches the consumers with high integrity.
  • Step 2: The product undergoes functionality, performance, and stress tests. These tests detect any deviation from industry standards that is not visible to the ordinary eye.
  • Step 3: A statistical process control is then conducted to analyze the data collected during production. This statistical method is used to detect, at an early stage, issues that can arise with the finished product.
  • Step 4: Data such as defect rates and measurements are collected on the batch produced to evaluate its integrity.
  • Step 5: After the defects have been identified, the products may then be repaired or system adjusted depending on the fault.

Quality Assurance vs Quality Control – Key differences

Below are some of the key differences between Quality assurance and Quality control.

Features Quality Assurance Quality Control
Execution Stage Quality assurance is conducted before and through the entire production process Quality Control is performed after production
Role and responsibility The roles associated with quality assurance are broad. It spans from establishing standard procedures to ensuring compliance with quality standards. Quality control only involves operational staff, such as technicians, whose responsibility is to execute the quality control test.
Timeline Quality assurance is a long-term process that may take days, weeks, or even months. Quality control is carried out within a shorter timeline.
Corrective vs. preventive actions Quality assurance takes preventive action to tackle problems before they even arise. Quality control involves identifying and correcting problems that are discovered during testing.

In addition, quality assurance and quality control are referred to as part of quality management focused on providing a guarantee and fulfilling the quality requirements.

Wrapping Up: A practical example of Quality Assurance vs Quality Control

Now that you know the differences between quality assurance and quality control, let’s apply this to a real-world example.

Let’s say a wall socket-producing company needs to produce a new line of wall sockets based on a new design. During the design and development stage, the manufacturer designs controls and processes required for consistent quality.

Some of these efforts, including calibration of equipment and giving verbal and written instructions to the workers is under quality assurance.

As the wall sockets come off the production line, inspectors periodically collect samples for testing. They check if the measurements are accurate, the screws are properly tightened, and the sockets function as expected.

If a defect is found, such as a missing hole in the socket, inspectors immediately notify the technicians to troubleshoot and adjust the machine settings. This prompt correction is an example of quality control in action.

In conclusion, quality assurance is a preventive measure, while quality control is a corrective measure.

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9 Popular Real Estate Marketing Tools for Agents in 2024 https://techresearchonline.com/blog/real-estate-marketing-tools/ Fri, 06 Sep 2024 17:01:43 +0000 https://techresearchonline.com/?post_type=blog&p=9896 Introduction Technology is moving faster than ever, and the number of agents entering in the real estate market is increasing daily. Likewise, modern agents have started using real estate marketing tools to generate leads, interact with potential clients, and close more deals. Nowadays, real estate focused platforms like Zillow and Top Producer are innovating and […]

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Introduction

Technology is moving faster than ever, and the number of agents entering in the real estate market is increasing daily. Likewise, modern agents have started using real estate marketing tools to generate leads, interact with potential clients, and close more deals.

Nowadays, real estate focused platforms like Zillow and Top Producer are innovating and bringing modern tech to real estate.

Therefore, it is important that you stay up to date with the latest real estate trends and use marketing tools to gain a competitive edge over other agents.

9 Real Estate Marketing Tools for Agents in 2024

1. Zillow Premier Agent

Zillow Premier Agent Marketing Tool

Zillow Premier Agent is one of the popular real estate platforms for market reports and property valuations. With this tool, you will gain access to potential buyers on a network of leading real estate sites including Zillow. As a real estate agent, you can create a profile to showcase your expertise to active home shoppers.

Finally, this real estate marketing tool allows agents to use the CRM product for task reminders, notes, and highly relevant marketing messages to improve the customer’s experience.

Features

  • Showcase and make your listings pop with 3D home tours.
  • Manage your leads with easy to use inbox messaging.
  • Team profile with collective reviews to gain access to advanced advertising tactics.
  • Access to buyer insights to close 2.4x more transactions.
  • Track your performance with the best of Zillow reports.

2. Top Producer

amazing real estate marketing tool is Top Producer

Another amazing real estate marketing tool is Top Producer. This platform offers affordable lead generation solutions, a website builder, and CRM system. On top of that, they also provide all-in-one business management tools for agents to build client relationships and streamline transactions.

In addition, Top Producer is a CRM software for real estate that simplifies your workflow and integrates directly with 150+ online lead providers like Facebook and Gmail. Finally, the CRM analyzes and compiles data from your contacts into a helpful timeline.

Features

  • AI powered engagement assistant
  • Integrates with real estate lead sources
  • Automated SMS and email response
  • Market Snapshot reports

3. Spacio

spacio real estate tool for marketing your listings

Spacio is another popular real estate tool for marketing your listings, allowing agents to capture and communicate with high quality leads. It is also one of the best open house showing and registration platforms that allows you to gather insights and make better decisions. Spacio is also designed for teams and brokerages with profile and property pages to grab the attention of potential customers thereby closing more deals.

Features

  • Boost listings and open house ads
  • Customizable auto follow-Up email content
  • Unlimited open houses, in person and virtual events
  • Streamlined lead capture, social profiling, and sharing
  • Industry leading integrations with popular CRMs

4. PropertyBase

PropertyBase CAR software for real estate

PropertyBase is a reliable, full-service real estate platform that offers a comprehensive suite of tools for CRM, marketing, and lead generation to simplify every step from search to sold. They provide end to end solutions to minimize your burden and maximize your reach to ensure business flourish.

Features

  • Generate quality leads at scale through professional ad campaigns
  • Drag and drop marketing center with company wide templates and email automation
  • Secure documents, eSignature, and compliance-driven transaction workflows
  • A website to showcase your brand and listings

5. RealGeeks

RealGeeks best real estate marketing tools for agents

RealGeeks is one of the best real estate marketing tools for agents in 2024. The affordable all-in-one solution is built to help hungry agents close more deals with automated marketing campaigns, social media tools, and integration with many third party tools. Real Geeks also helps agents, teams, and brokerage firms to improve their lead generation with new property valuation and lead conversion tools that capture the attention of buyers and sellers.

Features

  • CRM to deliver value at scale
  • Fully integrated IDX real estate websites
  • Online marketing campaigns to generate a steady flow of sellers and buyers
  • Home valuation tool

6. MatterPort

Matterport is a powerful property marketing tool

Matterport is a powerful property marketing tool that provides 3D virtual tours to create digital twins of properties with a full suite of capture options. This allows you to close deals faster by increasing buyer and seller confidence with 3D tours, floor plans, and print-quality photos.

In addition, Matterport also uses AI in real estate to transform properties into virtual data with detailed layouts, precise measurements, and comprehensive analytics.

Features

  • Facilities management with real-time AWS data
  • Integrate with Procore and AutoDesk for design and construction
  • Turn every property into a 24/7 open house to accelerate sales process

7. Market Leader

Market Leader provides exclusive buyer and seller leads for agents

Market Leader provides exclusive buyer and seller leads for agents with a suite of tools to turn those relationships into lifelong clients. This is made possible with their engagement co-pilot tool that features real estate CRM and lead nurture automation to start conversation and maintain lasting connections with new leads.

Features

  • Realtor website to capture real estate leads
  • CRM and marketing automation
  • Market leader mobile app to enhance productivity

8. PhotoUp

PhotoUp is an all-one home marketing platform

PhotoUp is an all-one home marketing platform with a range of tools under one roof for real estate photographers. With PhotoUp, you will have a back office solution for your photography business. This includes photo and video editing services to ensure a property stands out and attracts more potential buyers.

Features

  • Virtual staging and house tours
  • Single property websites
  • Virtual assistant services

9. Placester

Placester is another real estate marketing platform

Placester is another real estate marketing platform on our list of tools for agents in 2024. They offer the best codeless website builder for real estate professionals to build beautiful pages with MLS and IDX data to showcase listings. With Placester, you will also get easy to use CRM to nurture your leads plus ready to use integrations with the real estate ecosystem.

Features

  • Mobile app on the go with Placester’s creative assistants
  • Agents management
  • Engage with leads using integrated live chat tool

Wrapping Up – Don’t Be Left Behind

As the real estate industry is moving rapidly past the old door-knocking marketing strategy, it is important to use these real estate marketing tools to reach more potential customers, boost your productivity, and close more deals!

In addition, these tools and platforms represent the full adoption of proptech in the real estate industry. This will enable agents, teams, and brokerage firms to streamline their workflow, manage clients with CRM tools, and showcase listings to get more leads on powerful real estate sites.

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The Ultimate Guide to Fleet Management: Everything You Need to Know https://techresearchonline.com/blog/fleet-management-guide/ Tue, 03 Sep 2024 17:20:13 +0000 https://techresearchonline.com/?post_type=blog&p=10030 Introduction The importance of fleet management for a company is like how the headlights and GPS are useful to truck drivers. While they can operate without these systems, the lights and telematics tracking help to identify the best routes and stay confident. That is how fleet management systems work for businesses, logistics, and delivery companies. […]

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Introduction

The importance of fleet management for a company is like how the headlights and GPS are useful to truck drivers. While they can operate without these systems, the lights and telematics tracking help to identify the best routes and stay confident.

That is how fleet management systems work for businesses, logistics, and delivery companies. From vehicle acquisition to maintenance, fuel management, and driver safety – you should understand how to manage your fleets for business growth and profit.

This guide offers a comprehensive introduction to fleet management, from its definition to optimizing business operations. We’ll explore the role of fleet managers, common challenges, and how to stay ahead of essential technology trends.

What is Fleet Management?

Fleet management is the overall process of how a company oversees, manages, and ensures the smooth running of its vehicles. While it encompasses maintaining the effectiveness of the company’s fleet operations, we also refer to monitoring their performances on the road.

The purpose of fleet management includes vehicle acquisition, cost optimization, preventive maintenance, fuel efficiency, and driver behavior and safety. The person who manages the fleet is called a fleet manager and is responsible for centrally controlling all administrative aspects. The manager’s job varies depending on the fleet size and organization.

what is fleet management

Types of Fleets

Understand that company fleets do not only refer to delivery and logistics trucks that transport goods and services. Commonly used vehicles like freight trucks, SUVs, motorcycles, and cargo vans are categorized into two fleet types.

  • Commercial Fleets: This refers to the vehicles important for a business to transport goods and services to clients. Commercial fleets can be classified into delivery vehicles, service vehicles, and taxis. Common uses include logistics delivery, vans for HVAC repair, electric work, and on-site services.
  • Corporate Fleets: The purpose of corporate fleets is to support internal business functions such as employee transportation, and official travel. They are not for direct generation of revenue like the commercial fleets. Examples include executive vehicles and staff buses for employees. The effective usage of corporate fleets can improve employee retention when offered as organization perks.

How to Manage a Fleet

Discover the best practices for fleet management systems whether you are an experienced manager or a new person on the job. We explain how to manage a fleet in a rapidly developing automotive safety systems market.

  • Develop a Comprehensive Fleet Management Plan: Understand your specific business needs such as asset fleet size and types of vehicles such as trucks, vans, cargo, or SUVs. A good plan should include vehicle acquisition, maintenance, and proper disposal of the old ones. As a fleet coordinator, you should create a budget based on this management plan to guide decision-making.
  • Implement Fleet Maintenance Routine Programs: Schedule preventive maintenance checks to prevent costly breakdowns or delivery downtimes. You can use fleet management software to track routine inspections on vehicle components.
  • Monitor Driver Performance and Top Fleet KPIs: Train your drivers on the best fleet technology trends and safe road practices that follow company policies. You can use telematics data or vehicle management software to control speeding or harsh braking. Managing a fleet also involves analyzing key performance indicators like fuel efficiency to make data-driven decisions.
  • Leverage Fleet Management Technology: Integrating advanced vehicle control and tracking systems is another way to manage a fleet. Install telematics devices to get real-time data updates like location and speed. We also have electronic logging devices to document driving hours and fleet management software to centralize all data insights.

Importance of Fleet Management

Knowing how to manage a fleet is important for businesses that rely on transportation and logistics to operate effectively. The benefits of well-organized fleet management systems are:

  • Data-driven decision making
  • Improved driver safety and behavior
  • Higher customer satisfaction metrics
  • Optimal vehicle utilization
  • Real-time telematics data of fleet
  • Better fuel efficiency
  • Fleet maintenance scheduling

Who is the Fleet Manager and What Does a Fleet Manager Do?

The role of a fleet manager is crucial in any company that prioritizes safety and optimized performance of its delivery and logistics vehicles. Check out the day-to-day maintenance responsibilities required to ensure smooth operations:

  • Fleet Acquisition: Choosing the correct vehicles for transporting goods, services or personnel can help avoid financial losses in the long run. The fleet manager’s duty is to confirm that leased or purchased company trucks are suitable for the logistic needs, in good condition, and with excellent resale value.
  • Vehicle Maintenance and Repairs: Regular checks and scheduling preventive maintenance on logistics vehicles and delivery trucks are other roles of fleet managers. Proper inspection should be done before and after every use to promptly identify repair needs.
  • Driver Management: The fleet manager is also responsible for recruiting and training drivers. Other duties include monitoring their adherence to safety protocols.
  • Fuel Management: With the average fleet spending 25% of operating costs on fuel, the fleet manager needs to track its consumption and minimization strategies. A good suggestion is switching to electric fleets where possible.
  • Route Optimization: Analyze data to optimize delivery routes to reduce costs and increase the efficiency of your fleets.

fleet manager

How Much Can You Earn as a Fleet Manager?

Based on available fleet manager job postings, the average salary is about $48,000 to $119,860 depending on your experience. Working in higher-paying cities can also influence how much salary you earn to manage fleets. Minimum qualifications for such fleet coordinator jobs are usually relevant interstate trucking experience and how to manage CDL drivers.

For senior management roles, a bachelor’s degree from college or university might be needed in addition to a commercial driver’s license. Related coursework is transportation, public administration, asset, or public facility management. Years of experience preferably in fleet supervisory roles is prioritized for higher-paying jobs.

Difference Between a Fleet Manager and a Logistics Manager

The job of a fleet manager is similar in some aspects but different from a logistics manager. Logistics fleet management is a broader scope that focuses on the entire supply chain process, from the procurement of raw materials to the delivery of finished products to consumers.
Key responsibilities of a logistics manager

  • Overseeing the movement of finished products through the supply chain.
  • Managing inventory records of warehouse operations.
  • Working with fleet managers to optimize transportation routes.
  • Analyze supply chain processes to increase efficiency.

How to Optimize Fleet Management Using Predictive Analysis?

Predictive analytics in fleet management is a powerful optimization strategy for your company’s logistics and delivery vehicles. It involves collecting real-time data to predict what happens next in your day-to-day operations and minimize truck downtimes. Here is how to use predictive analysis in your fleet management system:

  • Anticipate Fleet Maintenance: Predictive analytics in fleet management helps you identify maintenance needs using available vehicle data. It is your responsibility as a fleet manager to constantly analyze these insights. You can avoid costly repairs and optimize vehicle uptime by predicting possible breakdown issues.
  • Prioritize Route Planning: Route optimization is another function of fleet management predictive analysis systems. As the person in charge of the fleets, you can use traffic insights, weather conditions, and delivery schedules to choose the best route. This helps to reduce fuel consumption and improve customer satisfaction through timely deliveries.
  • Monitor Fuel Efficiency KPIs: Fuel makes up a huge part of your fleet maintenance budget. Apart from route optimization, knowing how to optimize fleets with predictive analytics solves fuel inefficiency issues. You get access to real-time road data on idle usage and aggressive driving behavior such as speeding or harsh braking.
  • Remain Proactive on Risk Management: The goal of optimizing your fleet management with predictive analytics is staying proactive and not being reactive. Therefore, fleet managers must constantly observe vehicle logistics trends, focus on telematics, and seek preventive measures before downtime. Using predictive analytics makes it easier to manage your fleets.

fleet management trends

What are the Fleet KPIs to Track for Improved Performance Metrics?

The process of optimizing your fleet management system requires the identification of key performance indicators (KPIs). They are the measurable metrics through which a company can evaluate the effectiveness of its vehicle maintenance and management strategies. Check out the important key performance indicators for fleet management:

  • Operational Cost Management KPIs: This includes performance indicators data such as fleet administrative costs, cost per mile, and vehicle total cost of ownership (TCO). The goal of these KPIs for fleet managers is to ensure the overall efficiency of the daily running cost of the vehicles.
  • Safety and Driver Performance KPIs: Components of safety KPIs focus on tracking incident and accident rates, monitoring near misses, and identifying part failures in trucks. Assessing driving behaviors such as speeding, accelerating, and braking is the importance of driver performance indicators.
  • Efficiency KPIs: The efficiency key performance indicators for fleet managers include the vehicle utilization rate, fuel economy, preventive maintenance, and vehicle downtime analysis. You can improve efficiency KPIs for fleet management by analyzing useful telematics data like travels per unit of fuel and follow-up on scheduled maintenance.
  • Customer Satisfaction KPIs: Focusing on these key performance indicators for fleet management systems helps to track delivery times and corresponding customer satisfaction scores (CSAT). It involves analyzing received feedback from clients on the effectiveness of your delivery systems.

Top Fleet Management Technology Trends to Observe

The future of fleet management systems is promising with many projected statistics indicating continuous growth of the industry. Integrating the best technology into your vehicle operations is a way to stay ahead of the curve. We discuss the latest IT management tech for fleet owners to incorporate in overcoming industry challenges like fueling problems and effective maintenance.

  • Video Telematics System: This advanced fleet technology combines live video footage with traditional telematics data to oversee vehicle and driver performance in real-time. Using in-vehicle cameras, IoT sensors, and GPS, makes it easier to manage a fleet more effectively and safely.
  • Augmented Reality (AR): This innovative IT fleet management technology synchronizes digital information with real-time scenarios. Overlaying virtual elements onto the physical environment helps automotive technicians easily diagnose complex vehicle faults and interact with available fleet data. Through augmented reality, drivers can receive navigation instructions, and traffic and hazard updates without taking their eyes off the road.
  • Blockchain: Popular for its cryptocurrency application, Blockchain can function as an accurate fleet technology to securely store vehicle insights. Scheduled maintenance histories can help track the health of your fleet. Other potentials of Blockchain include the decentralized nature that protects data against hacking while supporting integrations with IoT devices and telematics systems to record the real-time location of company trucks and cargo.

Related Post – Top 7 Real Estate Trends You Need to Know in 2024

Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) for Fleet Operations

This sophisticated fleet management technology system combines sensors, cameras, radar, and artificial intelligence to assist drivers. We have two types of advanced driver assistance systems; the passive ADAS and the active ADAS. The passive assistance systems provide visual and audio notifications to correct driver behaviors and enhance safety practices on the road. Active ADAS is a step further and uses automated features such as lane departure warning, emergency braking systems, adaptive cruise control, and blind spot detection. These active alerts help to reduce the risk of accidents caused by driver errors.

Challenges in Fleet Management Systems

Managing a fleet of hundreds of vehicles for large businesses is no easy task. While recent technologies like video telematics and advanced driver assistance systems have made the job easier, fleet managers still face complex challenges to ensure efficiency and profitability. So, what are the key challenges of fleet management systems?

  • Optimizing Operational Costs: Fluctuating fuel prices, tracking fuel consumption rates and regular maintenance costs is a constant struggle for fleet managers. Insurance premiums can also be high for companies with a history of accidents or claims.
  • Driver Management and Retention: Recruitment of experienced fleet managers knowledgeable on the latest technology trends is a challenge. Another issue is the continuous training of your drivers on adherence to safety protocols.
  • Fleet Technology Integration: The advancement of telematics, GPS, and fleet management software presents opportunities and challenges. Optimizing collected data into actionable insights enhances efficiency but also requires complex tools or experienced coordinators.
  • Risk Management and Safety: Driver safety is one major concern, especially ensuring they follow arranged protocols to prevent accidents. Another related fleet management challenge is using security systems to prevent personnel or delivery vehicles from theft. Unsafe weather conditions and road hazards also pose constant threats.

Conclusion

Understanding fleet management systems is important for companies concerned about the effective transportation of their goods and services. With the continuous fluctuations in inflation rates and fuel prices, optimizing your delivery routes or vehicle usage can save money. We already explained how to optimize your fleet using predictive analytics and the KPIs to track for better performance. Ensure you stay updated with the latest technologies to overcome the challenges of the fleet industry.

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The Complete Guide to Omnichannel Customer Service for 2024 https://techresearchonline.com/blog/omnichannel-customer-service/ Fri, 30 Aug 2024 17:14:01 +0000 https://techresearchonline.com/?post_type=blog&p=9993 Introduction An omnichannel customer service is the interconnected experience many clients want from your business. Whether a prospect is shopping online, at your physical store, mobile app, or customer support chat – they want a continuous and seamless service. Customers always want to continue sales interactions from exactly where they stopped. One way to achieve […]

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Introduction

An omnichannel customer service is the interconnected experience many clients want from your business. Whether a prospect is shopping online, at your physical store, mobile app, or customer support chat – they want a continuous and seamless service. Customers always want to continue sales interactions from exactly where they stopped.

One way to achieve that is to understand what is omnichannel customer service and the different support channels that make up your B2B or B2C communication systems. This guide provides a practical omnichannel customer support definition, and why it is an important strategy in customer service.

Understanding the Omnichannel Customer Service Strategy

A comprehensive omnichannel customer service definition explains how to ensure customers continue the same experience without interruptions even when they switch communication platforms.

An example of omnichannel support is when a sales prospect shops on a brand’s website and adds items to their cart only to check back after a few weeks through the mobile app. The continuous “omnichannel” experience means the customer sees the same products on the mobile app cart ready for checkout – exactly where they stopped! It should also be the same if they later walk into the physical store to complete the purchase.

Omnichannel Strategy in Customer Service

So, what is omnichannel customer service? It is defined as the seamless, integrated, and consistent support strategy across all customer interaction channels for a business. It is different from multichannel service that operates each support channel independently.

Why is an Omnichannel Strategy in Customer Service Important?

Modern digital communication methods enable prospective buyers to choose from multiple channels for interactions. With these service offerings across multiple channels, customers need to pick up digital interactions from where they stopped.

That explains our definition of an omnichannel customer service strategy – a seamless connection of the different platforms to function as one to the users. Whether the sales communication started via live chat and continued in the mobile app, the customer wants a consistent experience. Forcing them to use only one channel or start over each time they switch will negatively affect satisfaction scores.

The Omnichannel Alternative: What is Multichannel Customer Service?

While omnichannel strategy in customer service has its advantages, we have to check how multiple channels might help your business. So, what is multichannel customer service and how is it different from omnichannel support?

Multichannel customer support is a digital strategy where a company provides its services through multiple and separate communication channels. Each support platform operates independently, meaning customer interactions in one channel may not be connected to another.
For example, a customer connecting via chatbot marketing under a multichannel communications strategy might have to start a new ticket if they switch to phone support.

Differences Between Multichannel vs Omnichannel Customer Service?

Different organization needs and customer service expectations might require choosing between a unified support system or multiple channels for communications. Check out the features that differentiate multichannel support from omnichannel customer support.

 

Features Omnichannel Customer Service Multichannel Customer Service
Integration of Channels Fully integrated and connected across all channels The different channels operate independently
Customer Experience Seamless, consistent, and unified interactions Separate customer support across multiple channels
Customer Data Centralized data accessible across all channels Data is usually restricted to a separate channel
Communication Continuity Seamless interaction without repetitions Customers might need to repeat the information
Personalization Highly personalized support based on unified data Limited personalization due to data separation
Overall Objective Focus on customer-centric journey Focus on providing multiple channels to interact

What Are the Benefits of OmniChannel Customer Service?

Learn the advantages of implementing an omnichannel strategy in customer service teams.

  • Customer Satisfaction and Retention: Omnichannel support platforms encourage customer engagement through effortless interactions across all channels. Positive sales experience where the buyer feels understood and valued leads to happy customers and higher retention rates.
  • Competitive Advantage: The edge over competitors is a benefit of omnichannel customer service for businesses aiming for productive and personalized customer interactions. In a crowded market, the ability to guarantee prospects a smooth sales process improves your brand’s reputation over multichannel support teams.
  • More Effective Customer Support: The connection and accessibility to data across multiple business support channels help the effectiveness of human agents and AI-powered chatbots. Customer support can provide fast and informed assistance since they have a complete view of previous interactions.
  • Happy Support Agents: The benefits of omnichannel customer service are not for the customers alone; the support agents also enjoy a productive workflow. The absence of repetitive tasks and the use of digital technology in integrating business touchpoints make it easy to focus on solving important problems.
  • Better Insights and Analytics: Another advantage of omnichannel customer support strategies is the consolidation of data from multiple channels to a single and centralized view. These function as rich insights databases for companies to analyze trends, understand buyer needs, and develop a more customer-centric approach.

What Are the Omnichannel Contact Centers You Need?

An omnichannel contact center is a list of customer service platforms that use physical and digital support channels to manage business interactions. These contact centers that define your customer service strategy are:

  • Phone and Email  Support: Customers might prefer direct communications with business representatives via phone call or email messaging.
  • Social Media: Popular advertising apps like Facebook and X (formerly Twitter) can be part of your marketing strategy to connect with customers.
  • Physical Retail Stores: Some customers prefer face-to-face interactions as a complement to online support channels.
  • Mobile Apps Support: Accessibility to your online store from the comfort of the buyer’s mobile screen is convenient for interactions anywhere and anytime.
  • Chatbots: Automated chatbots can enhance brand communication by routing queries to relevant support representatives.

Multichannel Customer Service

Examples of Omnichannel Strategy in Customer Service Applications

The best examples of omnichannel for customer service are from leading B2B and B2C organizations maintaining connected and unified support channels. These include companies such as:

  • Disney: The company explores the benefit of omnichannel customer service for an enhanced user experience. Guests can plan their visits, book reservations, and view riding wait times, all from the My Disney Experience application. This seamless customer service strategy saves the guest from worrying about logistics and uses Magicband wearable connects as a room key, ticket, and payment method.
  • Apple: This is another company with an omnichannel support system that provides unified assistance to customers across its platforms – website, store app, physical shops, and phone calls. The integration of service options, product information, and customer history on its cloud database supports personalized interactions.

Conclusion

Omnichannel customer service represents the present and future of B2B and B2C interactions. By prioritizing personalized client relationships, integrating a seamless and integrated support system is necessary. Businesses aiming to gain a competitive advantage in their respective industries should be ready to go beyond traditional multichannel customer support and try the omnichannel strategy in customer service. Customer expectations and satisfaction metrics continue to evolve, and embracing unified communication channels across your retail stores, email and phone support, and AI-powered chatbots is the way forward.

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Top 7 Real Estate Trends You Need to Know in 2024 https://techresearchonline.com/blog/real-estate-trends/ Tue, 27 Aug 2024 12:55:06 +0000 https://techresearchonline.com/?post_type=blog&p=9885 Introduction As the demand for homes continues to surge, emerging real estate trends are shaping the industry like never before. Over the years, the real estate market has evolved from the old traditional ways, particularly due to the adoption of AI and PropTech tools. This has led to the industry being anything but predictable with […]

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Introduction

As the demand for homes continues to surge, emerging real estate trends are shaping the industry like never before.

Over the years, the real estate market has evolved from the old traditional ways, particularly due to the adoption of AI and PropTech tools. This has led to the industry being anything but predictable with the latest technology trends in 2024.

However, many agents are still caught up with outdated strategies and have fallen behind competitors who are quick to adapt.

For this reason, our experts identified the top 7 real estate trends you should know, which, according to them, will significantly influence the real estate market in 2024.

Here are the most popular ones:

1. PropTech Advancement

PropTech is one of the most popular real estate trends in 2024, changing the way we buy, sell, and manage real estate properties and transactions.

Real estate agents now use immersive technologies like VR and AR to provide virtual property tours that give buyers a realistic sense of space and design aesthetics.

In addition, 3D modeling and drone technology is now widely used to also give buyers a detailed and aerial view of properties that were out of reach.

Blockchain is also another PropTech tool that guarantees secure and automated property transactions with the introduction of smart contracts. The process is immutable and transparent, allowing buyers to verify the authenticity of properties without intermediaries.

Beyond that, online property platforms like Zillow and Trulia have simplified the buying and selling process to make it easier for people to find and purchase their dream property with just a few clicks.

2. AI in Real Estate

Another real estate trend is the use of artificial intelligence to break down complex information and data. AI is now the first point of contact for potential buyers making inquiries via chatbots and assistants like ChatGPT.

To implement AI in your real estate business, start by evaluating your current processes to identify where AI can make a significant impact. You can also use AI to analyze complex documents, get accurate property valuations and smart property management.

With the rising roles of AI in real estate, agents can offer personalized experiences and make data-driven decisions that enhance the overall efficiency of the industry.

3. Demand for Sustainable and Green Building Technology

Green building technology is transforming the demand for sustainable homes and has influenced the way we plan, build, and maintain properties. It’s all about saving energy, picking the right materials, and growing trees to keep the air nice and fresh.

As environmental sustainability becomes a priority, eco-friendly homes are in demand in the real estate market. They are now a key selling point in today’s market, as modern buyers prefer houses with energy-efficient appliances, eco-friendly insulation, and solar panels.

green building technology

According to NAR’s survey report, over 25% of home buyers are willing to pay for these features. The demand for sustainable homes is more than just a trend; it reflects our commitment to protecting the environment.

4. Rise of Remote Work and Suburban Living

The COVID-19 lockdown caused a major shift in the corporate world, as people were forced to work remotely. This new way of work has reduced the need to stay close to urban workplaces. It has turned the property market mechanism upside down with a significant increase in suburban and rural areas.

Now that the market demand has changed, real estate agents need to prioritize space, affordability, and quality of life over proximity to city centers. As a result, suburban living is on the rise, with more people seeking homes that offer larger living areas, home offices, and outdoor spaces.

This trend is transforming the real estate market, driving demand in areas that were previously overlooked.

5. Integration of Smart Homes

Smart building technology is one technological advancement that has minimized staffing costs and human error possibilities. It has also changed the way people interact with their living spaces. This trend has caused a surge in demand for properties equipped with smart devices like thermostats, lighting systems, security cameras, and voice-activated assistants.

The installed tech appliances offer homeowners greater convenience, energy efficiency, and enhanced security, making them valuable additions to modern real estate properties.

Incorporating smart home options in your listings can give you a competitive edge as a real estate professional or investor.

Smart building technology

6. Build to Rent (BTR) Model

The Build to Rent model has gained immense popularity in addressing shifting housing demands. This emerging trend involves purposely erecting rental properties intended to supply long-lasting rental possibilities with amenities commonly connected to homeownership, such as shared spaces, fitness facilities, and concierge services.

The BTR model appeals to people who like the freedom of renting but still want a nice place to live. In 2024, experts think this trend will grow as more builders and investors see the chance for steady long-term profits from rental properties.

If you want to add variety to your property investments, the Build to Rent model allows you to make money with low risk. Today’s renters expect and deserve well-planned buildings that offer high-quality choices for different stages of life.

7. Emergence of New Real Estate Investment Strategies

The real estate investment market is growing as new strategies are introduced to meet the needs of an evolving marketplace.

Our experts predict a rise in fractional property ownership as well, with investors able to buy shares in properties and real estate crowdfunding allowing developers to access funds for development.

Also, using data-driven investment tools and platforms will help investors make better decisions, which in turn will lead to higher returns and fewer risks.

These new strategies are ushering in an era where more people have the opportunity to participate in real estate, and they may just be what’s needed next in a market that is becoming both accessible and increasingly dynamic.

The Bottom Line

These popular trends show how the real estate market will continue to change in 2024. Due to economic conditions and shifting consumer preferences, real estate trends will continually shape the housing market.

Managing these changes and adapting to them will help you succeed in this fast-moving field. These trends and tools can guarantee your success in real estate for years to come.

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5 Best Zoom Alternatives for Remote Team Collaboration https://techresearchonline.com/blog/best-zoom-alternatives-for-remote-team-collaboration/ Thu, 22 Aug 2024 10:45:22 +0000 https://techresearchonline.com/?post_type=blog&p=9836 Introduction Have you ever encountered issues during remote team collaborations and wondered what apps to use instead of Zoom? While the popularity of the video conferencing tool makes it seem like the go-to choice, there are other apps offering similar services as Zoom but with unique features. This article explores the top Zoom competitors and […]

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Introduction

Have you ever encountered issues during remote team collaborations and wondered what apps to use instead of Zoom? While the popularity of the video conferencing tool makes it seem like the go-to choice, there are other apps offering similar services as Zoom but with unique features.

This article explores the top Zoom competitors and how to choose the best alternative. We will learn about their features and have a direct comparison to meet your specific team needs such as:

  • High-definition Videos and Audio
  • Screen Sharing
  • Team Chat Feature
  • Cloud Storage
  • Google Workspace Environment

What is the Best Alternative to Zoom?

After careful review and narrowing down of the top Zoom alternatives for remote team collaboration, we have made our top 5 picks here:

  • Cisco Webex
  • Google Meet
  • Microsoft Teams
  • GoTo Meeting
  • BlueJeans

1. Cisco Webex Meetings

Cisco Webex Meetings app

Webex is another platform like Zoom, but it has enhanced security if you consider the early Zoombombing incidents. Industries with strict data safety requirements can try Zoom privacy tips or switch to Cisco Webex as a safer video conferencing app.

Cisco Webex offers new AI features for high-definition videos and high-quality audio during remote team communications. This makes it a top Zoom alternative for hybrid work environments with features such as:

  • Webex Desk and Webex room devices
  • Up to 100,000 participants
  • Real-time translations in 100+ languages

Downsides of Cisco Webex vs Zoom

  • The user interface might be slightly more complex for non-technical users
  • The higher enterprise features of Webex make it more expensive for small businesses

Conclusion: Webex is the right Zoom alternative for remote teams who need an enterprise collaborative tool with better security, global reach, and hybrid work support.

2. Google Meet

Google meet

Google Meet is one of the free apps like Zoom but with longer time limits. Free Google Meet users enjoy 1-hour meetings over the 40-minute duration for Zoom. Meet also seamlessly supports Google Workspace and is free for companies already paying for the integrations.

Business people looking for a video conferencing tool with easy user access can also try Meet as a top Zoom alternative. The web version allows users to quickly join meetings with access to full features without the app. Google Meet is a secure alternative since it uses Google’s security systems.

Downsides of Google Meet vs Zoom

  • Google Meet’s 500 participants for Business Plus users is less than Zoom
  • The third-party integrations are limited outside the Google workspace

Conclusion: Google Meet is a better Zoom alternative for remote teams already using Google Workspace but requires a team collaboration tool with security and easy access features.

3. Microsoft Teams

Microsoft teams

Microsoft Teams is the correct Zoom alternative for teams aiming for more than just a video conferencing app. It is a remote team collaboration platform suitable for hybrid work environments with features such as team chat, file sharing, and project management within the same tool.

Remote teams looking to integrate seamlessly with Microsoft 365 (formerly Office 365) will find Teams a better alternative to Zoom. MS Teams also has an extensive framework of Microsoft patches with advanced data encryption for security.

Downsides of Microsoft Teams vs Zoom

  • The extensive features set of MS Teams might take longer to understand for users who are not tech-savvy
  • Microsoft Teams is slightly less preferred for hosting large-scale webinars and virtual events
  • No free plan

Conclusion: Microsoft Teams is an excellent Zoom alternative for companies requiring a comprehensive collaboration platform with deep integrations into Microsoft 365 and its advanced security features.

4. GoTo Meeting

goto meeting

 

GoTo Meeting is the closest alternative to Zoom for your remote team collaborations. It offers very similar video conferencing features such as:

  • Team Chats
  • Screen Sharing
  • AI Meeting Assistant
  • Cloud Recording
  • Transcriptions
  • Virtual Backgrounds

Comparing features for features gives a slight advantage to Zoom and most might wonder why GoTo Meeting is on this comparative list. For example, GoTo Meeting can seriously stutter when the network is not great. However, GoTo Meeting has its own competitive advantages over Zoom in its unlimited cloud storage.

Downsides of GoTo Meeting vs Zoom

  • Places meeting on hold to receive calls
  • Only 250 meeting participants per call

Conclusion: GoTo Meeting is a better Zoom alternative for companies that don’t need to host large meetings and prioritize integrated security patches and cloud storage.

Related Post – Zoom vs Microsoft Teams vs Google Meet: A Step-by-Step Comparison

5. BlueJeans by Verizon

BlueJeans by Verizon

While not as popular for video conferencing needs, BlueJeans is another app to use instead of Zoom. The Verizon app is an alternative to Zoom without a time limit and supports interactive features such as:

  • Chat
  • Q&A
  • Live polling
  • Up to 150,000 participants

BlueJeans also offers higher technical support service and a longstanding security reputation with real-time fraud detection, end-to-end encryption, and complaints like HIPAA, GDPR, and SOC Type 2.

The smooth calendar integration without leaving the calendar app is another reason to opt for BlueJeans. The better audio and video quality is one of the first features you will observe since it uses Dolby Voice for reduced background noise and visual quality.

Downsides of BlueJeans vs Verizon

  • Lesser customization options
  • Only paid plans but with a free trial
  • Lesser third-party integrations

Conclusion: BlueJeans is the best Zoom alternative for organizations aiming to maximize audience engagement through interactive meeting features and superior audio and sound quality.

Other Zoom Alternatives

Here are some additional apps to use instead of Zoom for your video conferencing and remote team collaborations.

  • Whereby
  • Jitsi
  • Discord
  • Zoho Meeting
  • Brave Talk

What is the Best Zoom Alternative for You?

Deciding on apps to use instead of Zoom for remote team communications depends on specific collaboration needs. The following factors can help your decision-making process:

  • Size of Team: The average number of meeting participants determines the video conferencing app you choose. For example, large teams of over 250 workers cannot switch to GoTo Meeting from Zoom.
  • Reasons for Seeking a Zoom Alternative: A team looking for higher definition videos or audio might say Webex is better than Zoom. Another team seeking a simpler user interface with more features on the free plan would say Zoom is better.
  • Privacy and Security Expectations: A remote team with members from different continents would need a GDPR-compliant Zoom alternative.
  • Third-party App Integration: Confirm that your preferred alternatives to Zoom support your commonly used third-party applications.
  • Budget: Estimated budget is a valid concern when deciding alternative apps to use instead of Zoom. You can consider our top Zoom competitor picks that have a free plan to get started.

Conclusion

There are top Zoom alternatives for you depending on your reason for seeking a different video conferencing app with similar functions. We have made our top pick of apps to use instead of Zoom for remote team collaborations. Carefully check through our list to select the application that serves your team better and more effectively.

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