Not only is today's consumer becoming more financially and environmentally conscious, but businesses are also playing a key role in improving the environment and are focusing more and more on cutting costs.
In the business world, this means cutting back on bigger expenses and finding ways carbon footprints can be reduced.
As a result, more and more business is leaning on technology to reduce travel for business meetings.
Beyond just cost savings and green benefits, companies can also improve productivity by offering collaboration technologies and reducing the amount of time spent on planes and waiting in airports.
Conference calls conducted over the phone or via the Internet make it possible to communicate with clients, colleagues and customers efficiently and with video conferencing, even have a face-to- face meeting to share ideas - all without having to waste valuable corporate dollars and time spent traveling.
While some in-person meetings are unavoidable, there are many instances when meeting virtually is an efficient alternative. Also, collaboration technologies like Teleconferencing can also be used for other collaborations including training, so organizations get the most of their meetings.
Also, as the cost for fuel continues to increase, business travel will soon no longer make sense and businesses will need to find an alternative.
According to a recent WebMetrics Survey by Wainhouse Research, energy and gas prices are playing a key role in how business is being conducted. Essentially, this is leading the increased usage of new collaboration technologies.
"Rising energy prices have resulted in a surge in use of conferencing and collaboration technologies, and telework is one of several silver bullets that are helping enterprises programmatically add collaboration technologies," said Alan Greenberg, senior analyst & partner, Wainhouse Research.
Stefania Viscusi is an assignment editor for TMCnet, covering VoIP, CRM, call center and wireless technologies. To read more of Stefania’s articles, please visit her columnist page.
Edited by Stefania Viscusi