Find out how unified communications platforms can streamline workflows, save time, cut costs, and boost productivity.

Bouncing between emails, messaging apps, project tools, and file-sharing systems can turn a productive day into an app-hopping marathon. It’s draining, inefficient, and costing more than you think.

Unified communications platforms help solve a problem most of us didn’t know we had, until it spiralled out of control. Here’s how it can simplify workflows and some practical steps to get started.

The cost of app switching

Every time we switch tools or apps, it breaks our focus. A classic US study found it took workers 23 minutes to regain it after an interruption – which, on average, happened every three minutes.

With the sheer number of apps and tools available today, it’s fair to say the problem has probably got worse. That’s hours of productivity slipping away every day. And when productivity drops, so does your bottom line.

The frustrating part? These tools are supposed to make life easier. Without a unified system, they often do the opposite.

Best practices for streamlining workflows with unified platforms

To get the best out of your unified platform, you’ll need to tailor it to your team’s needs. Here’s how:

1. Identify where app-switching slows you down

Map out your team’s workflows and pinpoint the pain points. Is it managing messaging tools, tracking projects or hunting for files? Understanding the gaps will help you focus on where a unified platform can have the biggest impact.

2. Choose a platform that works for your team

Think about the tools your team relies on. A unified platform can bring them together in one easy-to-use system or replace them with something simpler and more efficient.

3. Pilot before a full rollout

Test the platform with a small group before introducing it business-wide. This helps you spot issues, tweak workflows, and gather feedback, making the full rollout smoother and more successful.

4. Make sure it works with your systems

Your new platform should slot in easily with your CRM, accounting tools, or support software. Look for built-in integration or APIs (Application Programming Interface) so syncing is simple.

5. Set measurable goals

Decide what you want to achieve – like trimming time spent on admin or speeding up project delivery. Clear goals let you track progress and highlight the platform’s value.

6. Standardise processes

Set up standard processes for communication, project updates, and sharing documents so everyone knows exactly how to use the platform and avoid confusion.

7. Provide proper training

Take time to train your team with sessions, guides, and ongoing support. The more confident they feel, the more quickly they’ll get the hang of it.

8. Encourage team ownership and feedback

Get your team involved from the get-go by showing the platform’s benefits – less frustration, smoother communication, and saved time. Ask for regular feedback and use it to make improvements. When your team feels involved, they’re more likely to use the platform effectively.

Your tools should make work simpler, not harder. Unified communications platforms cut out inefficiencies, reduce distractions, and free up time. By tackling app-switching, taking a unified approach, and following best practice, you can simplify workflows and help your team perform at its best.