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How Upgrading Your Business Technology Can Increase Its Value

Blog

Danielle Trigg

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28/04/2023

How Upgrading Your Business Technology Can Increase Its Value

As a business owner, it is important to stay up-to-date on the latest technology in order to remain competitive and grow your business. Investing in upgraded technology can help increase the value of your business significantly by improving efficiency, increasing customer satisfaction, strengthening security measures, and boosting productivity. Below we will discuss some of the key benefits of upgrading your company’s technology and how this investment can pay off in the long run.

Improve Efficiency
Increase Customer Satisfaction
Enhance Security Measures
Boost Productivity

1. Improve Efficiency

In today’s fast-paced world, efficiency is key to success. One way to improve efficiency is through automation. By automating processes, businesses can eliminate human error and improve accuracy. Furthermore, using cloud-based software can provide easy access to data and allow for collaboration between team members. Leveraging analytics can also greatly benefit a business by providing insights and allowing for data-driven decision making. By implementing these strategies, businesses can streamline operations and focus on what really matters: driving success.

2. Increase Customer Satisfaction

In today’s fast-paced world, convenience is the key to customer satisfaction. It’s no secret that cashless payment options have become increasingly popular, but the adoption of contactless card machines have been accelerated by the pandemic, with customers wanting to minimize physical contact. Incorporating artificial intelligence into customer service interactions can provide customers with instant responses and quick solutions to their problems, without the need for human interaction. Personalizing online experiences is another powerful tool for engaging customers and creating a seamless, enjoyable shopping experience. By leveraging these three powerful tools, businesses can enhance customer satisfaction, strengthen brand loyalty and ultimately drive profitability.

3. Enhance Security Measures

In today’s digital age, protecting data from cyber attacks is of paramount importance. Cyber attacks are becoming increasingly common and sophisticated, making it imperative to have strong security measures in place. Among the most critical measures are firewalls, encryption methods, and identity verification systems. A firewall creates a barrier around a network to prevent unauthorized access, while encryption ensures that data is scrambled and unreadable to unauthorized parties. Identity verification systems help to prevent fraud by verifying the identity of users before granting access. It’s crucial that individuals and businesses alike prioritize the protection of their sensitive data with robust security measures to avoid the devastating consequences of a cyber breach.

4. Boost Productivity

Productivity is essential for any business to succeed, especially in today’s fast-paced world. With the increasing use of technology, businesses can not only automate their processes but also collaborate with teams remotely. Collaboration tools like video conferencing software enable teams to communicate in real-time, making meetings more efficient and saving time on travel expenses. Project-management applications help teams better manage their tasks, ensuring that everyone is on the same page and deadlines are met. The productivity boost is further enhanced with workflow automation tools, which streamline repetitive and time-consuming tasks, saving valuable time and reducing errors. By using these collaboration tools, businesses can ensure that their teams have the necessary tools to work efficiently and effectively, leading to better productivity and ultimately, success.

To conclude

Upgrading business technology is a key factor in increasing the value of any business. By improving efficiency, enhancing customer experience, and boosting security measures and productivity, businesses can stay ahead of competitors and successfully drive growth. To do so, companies should invest in automation, cloud-based software, analytics tools, contactless payment methods, artificial intelligence technologies and workflow automation tools. By leveraging the most up-to-date technology, businesses can maximize their value and ensure long-term success.

Why Investing in CCTV Could be Essential for Your Businesses

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Danielle Trigg

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28/04/2023

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Why Investing in CCTV Could be Essential for Your Businesses

Investing in Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) systems can be a valuable asset for businesses of any size. Not only do they provide an extra layer of security, but they can also help to reduce the cost of insurance premiums and deter potential criminal activity. In this article, we’ll discuss why CCTV is worth it for your business and how it can provide a number of benefits. We’ll also explain why it’s important to invest in a quality system that meets your business’s security needs. Read on to find out more about the advantages of investing in CCTV for your business.

Benefits of Investing in CCTV for Your Business
Improved Security
Lower Insurance Costs
Deterring Criminal Activity
The Importance of Quality Systems

Benefits of Investing in CCTV for Your Business

Investing in CCTV for your business may seem like an added expense, but the benefits outweigh the initial costs. By having a security system in place, you not only deter potential criminals, but also have a way to identify and prosecute those who do commit crimes on your property. Additionally, CCTV footage can be used to monitor employee activity and ensure that they are following company policies and procedures. This can improve productivity and accountability within the workplace. CCTV can also improve customer confidence in your business, as they can see that you take their safety seriously. By investing in CCTV, you are investing in the overall safety and success of your business.

Improved Security

As a business owner, the safety and security of your establishment and employees should always be a top priority. Fortunately, with the advancements in technology, Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV) systems have significantly improved in deterring crimes and providing crucial evidence in solving them. A CCTV system allows you to monitor your business effectively, even when you are away, and provides an added layer of protection against potential intruders or burglars. By installing a CCTV system for your business, you can rest assured that you’re taking proactive measures to protect what you’ve worked so hard to build. Don’t wait until it’s too late; invest in a CCTV system today and experience enhanced security like never before.

Lower Insurance Costs

Installing CCTV systems is an effective way to provide surveillance in and around your company; not only does it create a safer and more secure environment for your employees, customers, and assets, but it can also lead to lower insurance premiums. Insurance companies take into account the level of security in your premises before calculating your rates, and a reliable CCTV system can help you qualify for discounts. So, investing in CCTV not only protects your business, but it can also save you money in the long run.

Deterring Criminal Activity

As a business owner, it’s important to take steps in ensuring the safety and security of your establishment. One of the most effective ways to do so is by installing closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras. These cameras serve as a powerful deterrent for potential criminal activity, as they capture footage of any suspicious behavior and can be used as evidence in the event of a crime. Not only do CCTV cameras provide a sense of safety and protection for your employees and customers, but they also give you peace of mind knowing that your business is being thoroughly monitored.

The Importance of Quality Systems

The significance of a high-quality CCTV system cannot be understated, as it plays a critical role in deterring criminal activities, identifying culprits, and providing evidence to authorities when required. A good quality CCTV system provides clear footage, it doesn’t suffer from interference and offers high resolution. A top-of-the-line CCTV system offers real-time monitoring, remote access, smart analytics, and easy scalability. Investing in a high-quality CCTV system ensures your business’s safety, reputation, and peace of mind.

Final Thoughts

In today’s world, businesses are faced with more security risks than ever before. Many companies are therefore investing in CCTV (closed-circuit television) systems to protect their assets and staff. However, one major factor holding businesses back from making this investment is the cost of installation. It’s important to remember, though, that the cost of not having CCTV can be much higher in the long run. CCTV can help prevent theft, vandalism, and break-ins, which can all lead to significant financial losses. Plus, the peace of mind provided by having a reliable security system in place is invaluable. Ultimately, the cost of installation should be viewed as an investment in the safety and security of your business.

Kids Eat Free at Coral Island: Re-Launched

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28/04/2023

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Kids Eat Free at Coral Island: Re-Launched

Blackpool’s 2023 season is well underway, and Coral Island – the seafront pirate-themed family entertainment centre – has launched a dazzling rebrand of its long-running Kids Eat Free promotion.

The refresh uses neon light-style graphics – soon to be seen all along the resort’s famous Golden Mile as well as on TV ads in the local, regional and Scotland areas.

The Kids Eat Free promotion gives children aged under 10 a free kids’ meal ‘all day every day’ with each paid adult’s meal. The offer is available at the amusement arcade’s four participating restaurants, including The Buccaneer Family Bar & Restaurant, Peggy’s Snack Bar, and the award-winning Big Fish Trading Co. and Traditional Chippy.

Striking New Redesign

The rebranding now features a striking neon sign-style design, on the familiar yellow background, with the ‘Kids Eat Free’ lettering boldly standing out amongst other neon light-inspired images, such as burgers and hotdogs and the iconic Blackpool Tower, celebrating Coral Island’s long-standing presence on the Promenade.

Coral Island’s managing director, Jeff MacNamara, said: “We’re very proud of our Kids Eat Free brand, which has been providing value for money for families visiting Blackpool and Coral Island for many years, especially during the current cost of living crisis. With the summer season here with us in Blackpool, it’s good to know families can have a fantastic day out at Coral Island, even when on a tight budget.

“We’re incredibly excited to launch the new Kids Eat Free design, and the flashing neon light effect is representative of what makes Blackpool great, with the world-famous Illuminations and the excitement of the arcades. We can’t wait for everyone to see them!”

Great Savings For Families

There are no vouchers required for the promotion, simply keep an eye out for the striking new posters and stickers in each of Coral Island’s participating restaurants. Not only is it available all day, every day, but there’s no limit to how many times the Kids Eat Free offer can be redeemed, so families are free to dine from breakfast right through to dinner and make great savings.

Peggy’s Snack Bar opens in time for breakfast with a full counter service, and a family of four can set themselves up for the day for as little as £13.90 with the Kids Eat Free offer. The offer also includes the Three Meat carvery served every Sunday from noon at The Buccaneer, a pirate-themed bar and restaurant inside Coral Island.

Tap To Play With New Contactless Play Cards

The popular family entertainment centre has also recently launched its brand-new, state-of-the-art Coral Island Play Cards, which can be loaded with credit to use as contactless with most of the arcade and ticket games in Coral Island, saving the trouble of carrying pots of change around – except, of course, the traditional seaside penny pushers, which will always want your two penny pieces!

For media enquiries please contact Sarah Stephens at sarah@treecommunications.co.uk or on 07919 886488.

About Coral Island

Coral Island has been a popular free-entry attraction on Blackpool Promenade and has entertained generations of families since 1978. With everything from traditional seaside games such as the penny pushers, carnival-style games such as ‘Down The Clown’, and the ubiquitous soft toy crane grabber machines, there are also the latest video arcade games and ticket machines.

The attraction, found right in the centre of Blackpool on the Promenade, a short stroll from the iconic Blackpool Tower, also features a Ghost Train ride, and the Pirate Flyer monorail, taking young pirates high above the crowds of Coral Island in their own miniature pirate ship. There’s also the Prize Shop, the biggest and best in Blackpool, where guests can exchange tickets won from the games for a huge range of gifts and souvenirs.

Have you ever wondered how to play a game of Roulette well?

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Danielle Trigg

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28/04/2023

0

Have you ever wondered how to play a game of Roulette well?

If you have never played Roulette before and you want to try your chances, you’ll want to make sure you know the basics of how to play. This article will teach you everything you need to know about the iconic wheel, so you can not only play at a land-based casino, but also play online Roulette games, anywhere, at any time you like!

A casino classic, Roulette, has been played for centuries, allowing players from all over the world to attempt to predict the outcome of the iconic wheel. Keep in mind that if you do play Roulette, only bet with money you can afford to lose. This is the number one rule with any casino game.

Keep on reading to find out more about Roulette!

The history of Roulette

The first blueprints of the iconic Roulette wheel were, in fact, invented by mistake in the 17^th century, after French inventor and scientist Blaise Pascal tried to create a perpetual motion machine.

Up until the mid-19^th century, the Roulette wheel remained the same since its invention, containing both a single zero pocket as well as a double zero pocket. However, that all changed in 1842, when French brothers Francois and Louis Blanc redesigned the wheel, removing the double zero, which in turn lowered the house edge. The new, lower house edge proved to be a favourite amongst players, and soon became known as European Roulette.

Surprisingly, after sailing across the seas to America, the lower house edge and single zero wheel wasn’t as enjoyed as much by players in the States, so they added the double zero back to the wheel. This version is now referred to as American Roulette.

The progression

When the first online casino opened its virtual doors in 1996, more players across the world were introduced to the wonderful world of Roulette, boosting its popularity further, and towards a newer audience.

Now, Roulette is a popular online casino classic. There are multiple variations of the game, which showcase classic television gameshow inspired games and themed wheels like Lightening Roulette, for example!

How to play

The dealer will open the betting window, allowing players around the table to place their bets wherever they predict the ball will land within the pocketed compartments on the wheel.
Then, when the betting window has been closed, the dealer will spin the wheel and release the ball into play.
The ball will bounce around in the opposite direction to the spinning wheel before landing in a pocket.
When the wheel has come to a complete halt, the dealer will announce the winning pocket. After this, any player around the table that predicted correctly will be paid out accordingly.
All chips will be raked off the table, ready for a new betting window and game to begin.

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We hope this has helped you to understand Roulette and the history behind the iconic game which is played by so many. Will you be taking your chances and spin the wheel anytime soon?

The Sculpts Celebrate Securing Major Contract

News Desk

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28/04/2023

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The Sculpts Celebrate Securing Major Contract

The Sculpts, a unique Manchester-inspired homeware and lifestyle brand, has recently won a significant contract to create and supply one of Manchester’s most prestigious institutions, the Manchester Museum, with a bespoke tile collection.

Coinciding with the renovation of the museums’ Oxford Road site, The Sculpts has been commissioned to create two new MANCHESTER letter tile series, along with an illustrated history of the bee in art and culture. The themes for the custom-made collection reflect the museum’s commitments to sustainability, biodiversity, and inclusivity, which have been depicted in detail throughout the new illustrations in The Sculpts’ distinctive style.

At the helm of the Manchester born and bred brand, which creates surreal yet soulful designs that pay homage to the industrial spirit of the city and its surrounds, is illustrator and architect Richard Bennett. The Sculpts’ designs are brought to life by Richard to feature across its distinctive range of ceramics, prints, and textiles. Strongly evoking the heart and heritage of Manchester, intricate detail and meaning lies behind each and every design.

The listing marks the latest of several prestigious collaborations for the firm. After only establishing in 2020, The Sculpts has attracted a lot of interest already, with a growing number of retail outlets in the North West and beyond stocking its products. Existing partners include the Whitworth Art Gallery, Manchester Central Library and the National Trust.

Richard Bennett, Founder and Designer at The Sculpts commented: “Collaboration is at the heart of our creative philosophy, and our partnership with the Manchester Museum has been a fantastic opportunity to explore and celebrate the archives and culture of such a respected establishment.

“We have ambitious plans for the brand going forward, with several exciting announcements to make in the coming months, including the opening of our very own retail space.”

For more information and to browse The Sculpts collection, visit: www.thesculpts.com

Oyster IMS drives Information Security with a New Leader

Business

Sam Allcock

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28/04/2023

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Oyster IMS drives Information Security with a New Leader

Oyster IMS, the London and Dublin based information management consulting firm have recruited experienced security and data protection professional, David Francis, to head up their new Information Security Consulting practice.

Francis joins as Head of Information Security Consulting from London Insurance Market underwriters Canopius where he occupied many senior roles including Head of Information Governance and Group Data Protection Officer.

Francis commented: “This is a wonderful opportunity to join a growing and well-respected consultancy and to work with an amazing set of public, private and third sector organisations. Information security has always been my key area of expertise and the new services we are now offering both complement and enhance the long-established governance and data protection practices. I am looking forward to building a high-quality team of consultants and analysts to help our clients establish a safe and secure environment to support their strategic goals and day-to-day activity.”

Oyster IMS Managing Director Josef Elliott commented: “It’s wonderful to have David on board – we have known him for a long time and he has years of experience of solving client-side problems which will prove invaluable to our new practice. David holds a range of privacy and security accreditations and will be a natural leader for this new group. He has dived straight in and is already leading on a number of security assessments and ISO27001 implementation projects for UK and Irish clients.

As far as the business is concerned, information security is the final piece in the practice we have been putting together and I’m very excited that we are now be able to advise and support our clients across all three major information management disciplines; data protection, information governance and information security.”

Oyster IMS is a consultancy-led information management business delivering expert advice, working with best-of-breed software products, and offering on-going and enduring services to a wide range of organisations in the areas of data protection, information governance and information security.

Updated Advice for Owners and Operators of Holiday Parks

News Desk

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28/04/2023

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Updated Advice for Owners and Operators of Holiday Parks

Business Companion, a provider of free and unbiased legal advice for businesses, has released updated guidance to aid holiday park owners and operators.

From complaints handling to contracts, marketing and sales promotions, there are specific rules which owners of holiday caravan parks must be aware of if they want to keep their business healthy and their customers happy.

A holiday caravan or lodge is not like many other consumer purchases. Customers in this sector are seeking a home away from home, a place to spend their hard-earned leisure time and relax away from the stresses of daily life. Holiday park owners and operators who sell holiday caravans and lodges, therefore, are in the business of selling much more than just four walls and a roof – they are selling a lifestyle and an aspiration, as well as all of the expectations that go along with it.

There are factors specific to the holiday caravan/lodge sector which are in many ways unusual, and which are important for businesses operating in the space to consider.

People purchasing a caravan or lodge on a holiday park are entering into a large financial transaction, possibly secondary only to buying a house. They are committing into a long-term contract regarding the location of their purchase, its maintenance and facilities, and sundry other considerations. In many cases they will be making the purchase in a marketplace with which they are unfamiliar, and will to a certain extent be vulnerable as a result.

For all these reasons, it is particularly vital that businesses operating in the sector have a firm grasp of their obligations under consumer law and understand the consequences of getting things wrong.

To help holiday park owners and operators, Business Companion – a free online resource for traders of all sizes who need up-to-date, reliable and easy-to-understand information about consumer law – has published a new guide.

The guide, which is written by experts in consumer law, is divided into four easily digestible sections, focusing on contract law and unfair terms; fair-trading law; sales, marketing and entry into contracts; and dealing with holiday caravan/lodge owners.

It sets out what is required by the legislation to ensure that owners can make an informed purchasing decision, alongside the relevant aspects of the Consumer Rights Act 2015 and the Consumer Protection from Unfair Trading Regulations 2008.

The guide also covers things like how to avoid giving out any misleading information or making misleading omissions in contracts and marketing materials, as well as aggressive and banned commercial practices. It contains examples of everyday mistakes to avoid, as well as examples of best practice that can help boost your business’s reputation and help safeguard you if problems do arise.

Sue Steward, Head of Education & Training at Chartered Trading Standards Institute (CTSI), said:

“It is really important that people purchasing holiday caravans or holiday lodges know exactly what they are buying into before they make a commitment. Getting things right and spending a little extra time to make sure all parties are happy and comfortable before any contract is signed, will help everybody in the long run.

“When it comes to consumer law, most businesses are keen to get things right, and no one sets out to disappoint their customers. It can sometimes be easy to make mistakes unintentionally though. Hopefully this guidance will help to keep your business running smoothly and your customers happy so they can enjoy their holidays.”

To view the guidance or download the PDF booklet, click here.

Outdoor Canal-Side Terrace Bar Launched by Three Little Words

News Desk

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28/04/2023

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Outdoor Canal-Side Terrace Bar Launched by Three Little Words

Three Little Words, Manchester’s premium cocktail bar, are opening a canal-side Terrace bar in time for a Summer of mouth-watering cocktails, signature spritzes and more.

Since 7th April, their talented team of mixologists have been serving up delicious cocktails from The Bungalow overlooking Manchester’s most beautiful beer garden. If you haven’t already visited – what are you waiting for?!

Now that summer is fast approaching they are elevating their presence along the sun-soaked canal with the launch of the Terrace Bar at Kampus from 5th May Bank Holiday weekend.

The outdoor canal-side Terrace Bar will open 5th May, serving up delicious spirits, spritzes and cocktails all made up from their portfolio of multi award-winning spirits from The Spirit of Manchester Distillery. All the spirits are created by their team right in the heart of the city, including well loved brands such as Manchester Gin, One-Eyed Rebel Spiced Rum and Sphere Vodka.

Guests can lounge in the sunshine along the canal and order drinks straight from their bespoke cocktail van or via QR code and also order food from the Bungalow. When you visit, look out for the Rum Spritz, featuring One-Eyed Rebel Passionfruit & Coconut Rum and Passoa – summer in a glass!

Seb Heeley-Wiggins, Owner & Co-Founder of The Spirit of Manchester Distillery & Three Little Words, said: “Our first month at Kampus has been incredible, we’ve loved seeing a few of our Watson Street regulars joining us and many new faces as well. Being a family owned and run business, born in the heart of Manchester, we jumped at the chance to join the other incredible independents at Kampus for our summer residency and we are so excited to see what the rest of the summer holds.”

Pulling out all the stops for the Kampus Bank Holiday Weekender, the Three Little Words team are hosting a line up of live DJ sets, tastings and specials to entertain and surprise guests across the whole weekend.

Joining them on Saturday is another well loved Manchester independent, florists from The Bud and Pot, who are hosting an exclusive “Best of British Blooms” themed class available to book now for £35, enjoy a masterclass in flower arranging and create a bunch of beautiful blooms to take home, as well as enjoy 10% off in the Bungalow after the event. More details and tickets are available now.

Guests & residents can look forward to an amazing summer of monthly masterclasses and tastings, hosted by Three Little Words and friends, as well as DJs, celebrations & one-off special events throughout their 6 month summer residency. Tickets for their first tasting in the Bunglow are on sale now.

Follow their instagram @threelittlewordsmcr for news and updates on the full summer line-up.

Tiger Sheds Appoints Vega to Activate TV Campaign

News Desk

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28/04/2023

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Tiger Sheds Appoints Vega to Activate TV Campaign

Vega, a Manchester-based digital agency, have continued their partnership with Tiger Sheds with a second TV campaign this year.

Tiger Sheds, a brand owned by Woodlands Home and Garden Group, are following up on their maiden TV venture in 2022. Vega worked closely with ITV and its Backing Business initiative in 2022 and have extended the relationship into 2023. This year’s campaign sees refreshed creative from Propaganda. The campaign runs for 3 months across ITV terrestrial and Digital channels, and introduces 5 and Sky to the mix.

Vega Co-Founder, Jon Hall commented: “We’re delighted to continue our fantastic partnership with Tiger Sheds. Our co-production model led to really productive discussions with broadcasters, with Tiger Sheds involved in all conversations every step of the way. We are utilising the number of attribution initiatives again and are confident we can build on the success of last year, continuing to drive brand awareness, share of search and increased sales for such an ambitious company.”

Sam Jenkinson, Head of Marketing at Tiger, added: “It’s exciting to see Eric The Tiger back in action on our screens highlighting what Tiger stands for – helping consumers find their perfect space. It’s that simple! Since the last campaign, so much has happened at Tiger to improve our quality and value even further and we’re confident that customers looking for a wooden garden building will have the best experience at tigersheds.com.”

Social Housing Providers Are Turning to Tech to Trim Costs

News Desk

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28/04/2023

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Social Housing Providers Are Turning to Tech to Trim Costs

With financial pressures growing, Social Housing providers are looking for new methods to cut the costs. DocTech‘s Managing Director, has offered insight into the changing landscape.

New technologies, and in particular digitalisation and automation, have been transformative for some in the sector, saving both time and money. In a survey conducted by Inside Housing, 32% said digital transformation was considered a top priority and 65% of leaders believed digital transformation was key to their development. .

Ruban Rajasooriyar, managing director at DocTech, highlights the challenges faced by Social Housing organisations and shares predictions for the future of technology in the sector.

An Industry Under Pressure

In March, the Government regulator of Social Housing published its latest quarterly survey of private registered providers’ financial health. It showed that the sector secured £3.4 billion in new finance, putting borrowing at £121.8 billion – the highest level for six years.

Wider economic pressures including inflation, higher borrowing costs and a softening housing market, are all thought to be adding financial pressure.

With a tightening of the purse strings there is an industry-wide push to deliver efficiency savings across the full range of services. The adoption of new technologies is one way the sector is looking to make savings in both time and money.

The Future of Technology in Social Housing

Technology is a rapidly changing world. What is considered science fiction today could be science fact tomorrow. Based on current trends, Ruban Rajasooriyar has made predictions for the technology adoption in Social Housing that we are likely to see over the coming years.

Data Management Will Be Digitally Streamlined

Technologies that allow access from mobile devices will provide remote and field-based workers with real-time access to information and systems.

By automating processes, moving to digital signature solutions, and creating a digital trail across the organisation, Social Housing providers will remove time-consuming manual processes in finance, HR and tenant management.

Social Housing organisations will therefore adopt an integrated document management solution to digitalise information, enabling housing providers to collect and leverage data.

AI and Automation Will Save Time and Money

Since its launch in November 2022, the news has been awash with talk of ChatGPT.

Although the future is still unclear on the adoption of these technologies, Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools have the potential to significantly improve efficiency and reduce costs for Social Housing associations.

Future AI driven applications could assist staff to more quickly and efficiently action repetitive tasks such as answering tenant queries, processing applications, and scheduling appointments, freeing up staff to focus on more complex tasks.

IT Infrastructure Will Become More Agile

Social Housing will move fully into “the cloud”.

Rather than storing information on their own computers and servers, migrating to a cloud-based system will make Social Housing organisations more agile and able to adapt to new technologies, capable of handling larger volumes of data in real time and providing high levels of security to protect personal data and business critical applications.

One of the key factors limiting digital transformation today in Social Housing is the underlying IT infrastructure.

Self-Service for Tenants

Digital adoption has increased as more tenants become tech-savvy.

Although a proportion of tenants still rely on person-to-person support, a growing number prefer to manage information through apps or online document portals making it easier to check rent payments, report maintenance issues or simply update personal details.

In the future, AI technologies built on more mature versions of applications such as ChatGPT will only enhance this digital interaction, with tenants using virtual assistants to guide them through the application process, provide information on rental agreements, and answer virtually any question. Up until fairly recently the ability to have a natural language conversation with a Chatbot was not always productive.

Connected data and analytics could also help housing providers identify indicators of rental payment issues, so that action to prevent them falling into arrears can be taken.

Smart Systems Empower Better Working Practices

It is estimated that more than 150,000 smart devices are installed in tenants’ homes by social landlords across the UK. This number is expected to hit 1 million devices by the end of 2024 and to become the norm across the industry.

Some projects start with a move away from manual testing of emergency lighting. Technicians previously had to attend the site to determine if there were any problems. If so, then the next step was to order the part for replacement and at a later date return to site to complete the repair. LED bulbs have saved countless trips.

Preventative maintenance is hugely advanced by adopting Internet of Things (IoT) technology, in this case by sensing and communicating potential failures ahead of them happening,

Beyond this, smart locks cut down on delays as they allow tradespeople to be let in remotely; smart temperature sensors help detect issues with mould, before problems arise; and smart leak sensors have been used to help prevent or minimise water damage.

The combined bill of maintenance and repairs for Social Housing organisations in the UK was a staggering £5.5bn in 2019/20. With an estimated 10-20% of failed visits, something that can be significantly reduced through the adoption of smart tech.

Research from showhouse.co.uk shows nearly half (49%) of smart tech owners reported an average annual saving of £318 by swapping appliances to smart devices.

Digitalisation Must Be Proactive

Social Housing providers have historically been reactive rather than proactive, responding to events such as reported repair issues or tenant arrears.

Technology will create a more proactive model for Social Housing, with smart home technologies flagging potential maintenance issues, tenant management systems automating document processing and compliance – all dramatically improving efficiency.

DocTech has worked with Social Housing providers throughout the UK for 20 years. The company was recently shortlisted as Technology Partner at the 2023 Northern Housing Awards.

To find out more, visit www.doctech.co.uk

1. Improve Efficiency

2. Increase Customer Satisfaction

3. Enhance Security Measures

4. Boost Productivity

To conclude

Benefits of Investing in CCTV for Your Business

Improved Security

Lower Insurance Costs

Deterring Criminal Activity

The Importance of Quality Systems

Final Thoughts

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