Take advantage of your tech

two-dots-mainMy recent Couch 2 SXSW posts have focused on how to get the most out of a large technology conference. It made me wonder, are we even getting the most out of our everyday technology?

Apparently not! Experts estimate that 90 percent of features included with software go unused. We may be able to get by using just 10 percent of a product’s features, but what kind of process improvements and productivity increases could we see if we really knew how to use the technology we’re already paying for?

So what’s the best way your business can take advantage of the technology you already own? Use the two “Ts”: tips and training.

While you may not have the time to learn all of the ins and outs of your technology tools, someone does. Luckily, power users are typically thrilled to share their knowledge, whether it’s via forums, user groups or even on YouTube. (Seriously – YouTube has the best tips and tricks videos. This isn’t exactly a business example, but YouTube tips saved my life when I was stuck on some of the more difficult levels of Two Dots). A quick Google search may be all that stands between you and that tip that changes the way you do everything.

Here at TDS, we found that when we surveyed our TDS managedIP Hosted customers one thing we heard loud and clear is that they wanted more training. While our Support Site has user guides, videos and FAQs, we decided to supplement those materials with free monthly webinars on specific topics important to our customers.

Find out what kind of continuing training is available from your technology partners. A small time investment today will pay off in a big way when you and your employees are able to better use the tools you already own. Also, don’t start playing Two Dots. It’ll ruin your life.

About Kris Prusynski

Kris works on the Commercial Marketing team at TDS Telecom and helps TDS achieve their online objectives through digital marketing and website optimization. She has worked in the digital marketing space for over 15 years, in product categories as diverse as shoes, banking, beds and pig farming supplies (really!). Kris has both undergraduate degrees and an MBA from the University of Wisconsin - Madison and therefore bleeds Badger red. She’s a veteran blogger on topics ranging from digital marketing to Wisconsin fish frys to the sweet necessity of ugly office sweaters. Nowadays, you’re more likely to find her on Twitter or Google+ trying to decipher the mysteries of A Song of Ice and Fire. In her spare time, you can find Kris kayaking, hanging out at the dog park, or thinking about lawn care.

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