Automation drives innovation, addressing the needs of various industries. Choosing intelligent automation aids in scaling businesses comprehensively. Advanced smart automation platforms, created by major tech companies, reduce workloads and transform unstructured data into problem-solving opportunities on unified platforms or the cloud. Globally, automation is now crucial for success and is no longer exclusive to large corporations. Small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) are integrating automation into all business areas, including CRM, HR, marketing, and sales.

There have been challenging times for businesses worldwide, significantly impacted by the global pandemic, which altered customer behaviors, disrupted supply chains, and exposed operational weaknesses. However, even before COVID-19, small business automation was a key to business transformation and digitization. SMBs have recognized the value of automation, with 63% stating it helped them survive the pandemic. Although digitization through automation can be a large, expensive endeavor, a strategic and calculated approach can offer substantial and cost-effective benefits.

What is Business Automation?

To begin, business automation refers to using technology applications to perform repetitive tasks, allowing employees to focus on higher-value work. Business Process Automation (BPA), a crucial subset, automates complex business processes and functions beyond traditional data handling and record-keeping, often using advanced technologies. Despite potential misconceptions, businesses of all sizes have repetitive tasks that are ideal candidates for automation, which can make these processes less time-consuming and prone to human error. Automation benefits, including business growth, make it a valuable consideration.

Types of Automation to Consider

We will cover five primary types of small business automation:

1. Customer Relationship Management (CRM) Automation; CRM automation streamlines repetitive tasks such as customer information input and lead status updates. Common solutions include HubSpot, Zoho, and SalesForce. When choosing a CRM system, consider your specific needs, integration with existing tools, and ease of use.

2. Marketing Automation which includes;

Email marketing: Automated welcome emails, triggered emails, and drip campaigns.

Social media marketing: Streamlining post scheduling and data collection.

Pay Per Click (PPC) marketing: Tools like Report Garden and Google’s tools offer automation for ad adjustments and reporting.

3. Process Automation; BPA addresses repetitive processes such as order entry, report generation, and employee onboarding. Robotic Process Automation (RPA) is a subgroup but may be less relevant for small businesses.

4. Accounting Automation; Accounting automation targets tasks like payroll management, expense management, and financial reporting. Solutions include QuickBooks and NetSuite.

5. HR Automation; Benefits larger businesses with tasks like recruiting, onboarding, and time management. Examples include Asana, BambooHR, and TimeCamp.

Tips and Tricks for Small Business Automation

1. Identify Repetitive Tasks

Adopt automation based on problem-solving needs. Identify which repetitive tasks can be automated to save time and focus on more creative work.

2. Review Processes for Manual Errors

Automation reduces human error, which can be costly. Automated data collection and input can significantly cut down on errors.

3. Start Small and Expand Over Time

Begin with the most pressing automation needs and expand as your business grows. Focus on underperforming areas like CRM and BPA initially.

4. Always Integrate

Ensure that new automation tools integrate seamlessly with existing workflows to avoid disruptions.

5. Remain Cost-Aware

Stay mindful of costs when choosing automation solutions. Avoid paying for unnecessary features and focus on what truly benefits your business.

Conclusion

Automation offers new and exciting opportunities, having accelerated due to the global pandemic but existing as a valuable business tool long before. For SMBs, automation can save time, reduce human error, and enhance performance monitoring and reporting. A strategic, problem-solving approach ensures cost-effectiveness and avoids budget strain, making automation a worthwhile investment.