Source-Pixabay
If you are like most people, you have likely been waiting on the completely paperless office to arrive for years. Many held on to the hope that innovative technology would finally get rid of all those stacks and drawers full of paper.
The modern workplace environment is still too dependent on paper. This can have a serious and negative impact on productivity and the environment. Also, with so many documents, not properly sorted or filed, workplace compliance and security are often compromised.
The good news is, there are new tools available from eFax internet faxing to computer software that is geared toward the dream of a completely paperless office. Learn more about this topic below.
Historically Which Documents Were on Paper in Sales Departments
For years, business sales departments ran exclusively on paper documents and manual records. This is because that’s all there was. Even when computers and other technology came into the picture, many businesses stuck with paper because it is what they knew. From purchase orders to letters of intent, most sales departments did everything on paper.
What is the Standard Today?
It’s estimated that the average office worker still uses around 10K sheets of paper each year. Even with the haling in of the paperless office era, the consumption of paper throughout the business realm continues to rise.
While this is true, there are more small and large business owners who have expressed interest in going paperless. Much of the hesitation is wondering how to get started and how to implement this big of a change across their entire enterprise.
Source-Pixabay
What Does the Tool Stack for Paperless Sales Departments Look Like?
The tool stack for a paperless sales department may look slightly different for each business. While this is true, there are a few you will likely see, regardless of industry. Some of these include:
- File-syncing services: This allows the sales team to access any document needed, regardless of the device being used. Some programs even offer document delivery options.
- E-Signature Tools: There are all types of documents that must be signed that are generated by the sales department. Having e-signature tools eliminates the hassle of having to get signatures on paper or in person.
- Scanning apps: These are usually mobile apps that will turn the camera on your phone into a scanner. The best apps will have the power to detect when something is being scanned automatically.
- Workflow apps: These are going to outline the “to-do” list of a project and allow every team member to check-in, share their progress, let others know what they need, and more.
- eFax services: Faxing is still something used in day to day business affairs. With an eFax, there is no need to have a traditional fax machine or paper.
Each of these services is going to make your effort to go paperless easier and more efficient.
Bonus Tools You Can Use to Be Ahead of the Game
While the tools above are essential must-have items, there are a few other tools that may be helpful when trying to create a paperless office. These include:
- Cloud-based visitor management system: Replace sign-in sheets, paper forms, legal agreements, memos, and more at the reception desk.
- Note-taking apps: Easily keep up with what is going on and what needs to be done while recording important meeting information with one of the popular note-taking apps.
- Document management: A document management app will ensure everything is easy to find, regardless of what you need.
When it comes to going paperless, there are several tools and apps that you can use. Being informed and knowing how to get started means you are one step closer to a truly paperless office.
