If an employee has the ability to work remotely from home, they save time on … Better teamwork. Business. Some of the typical benefits of Lean is, first, it frees up space. Having flexible work policies that allow my staffers to set their own schedules … While it’s true that employees benefit from flexible schedules, smart employers know that offering flexible schedules benefits them, too. It spurs us on to outpace them. "Over the last year, we've actually been able to increase prices on our site," says Daniels of Thumbtack. Being flexible includes large changes, but also trickles down to everyday activities that are subject to change. Some entrepreneurs see competition as proof of demand. One way in which telecom service providers can do this is by embracing VC4's innovative IMS product, which allows employees of such firms to manage changes relating to their networks, meaning they can improve their technical flexibility. With the capability to adapt and mold offerings and experiences to deliver better products, higher-quality services or greater overall value, small businesses can earn market share even in the most saturated niches. Please review. "We've seen a significant increase in our business because of our global hiring in the Philippines," says Sander Daniels, co-founder of Thumbtack. The benefits of being flexible. It is not only in relation to technology that telecom service providers need to adopt a flexible approach, but also with regard to their employees and the way in which they work on a day-to-day basis. In this section, you will learn tips for flexibly responding … Being able to create your own hours, speak to your clients outside of business hours, be open for business 24/7, etc.—this makes your life and your potential client’s lives much easier. Flexible People Can Have a Better Quality of Life. It spurs us on to outpace them.". We recommend talking with your employee benefits advisor or specialist to learn more about the benefits packages and solutions your business is committed to providing. Suddenly, incontrovertible benefits of flexible working – better productivity, engagement and wellbeing – were no longer sacrosanct. Small businesses, on the other hand, can benefit from having tighter, rapid feedback loops and more direct involvement from decision makers, as well as looser processes and systems. Again, corporate flexibility and adapting to market demands can be the key to success. The Advantages of a Flexible Budget. Customers—both B2B and B2C—prefer working with companies that are responsive to their needs, so a flexible business model can also foster customer satisfaction and brand loyalty. Some small businesses may find success with performance-based pricing, in which customers pay for results rather than time or services. Workplace flexibility can enhance work-life balance for employees, leading to greater satisfaction … Product-based businesses aren't without options to innovate on pricing, however. All rights reserved, Insights and Inspiration to Help Grow Your Business. On the flip side, however, U.S.-based small businesses could see work decrease if their niche is a service that's easily provided by offshore workers. ... A business might also be able to extend opening hours due to the wider availability of the workforce. ... To the employee it means being able to switch off at the end of the working day, with some energy left, as opposed to … When you're flexible, you're versatile, resilient and responsive to change. Flexible … Oftentimes, online businesses set up chat features on their websites where you can chat wit… For example, working for a company requires that you work in a team with the rest of the staff. Another awesome benefit that comes with flexible working arrangements is that the companies shall also hire telecommuters and grows at a much faster rate than those companies that only feature in office working. These factors can enable small businesses to respond readily and rapidly to shifting demands. This speaks to Thumbtack's business model: Serving new leads to small businesses, especially those desperate to secure new business. An online business allows you access to everything you need and want all day, every day. As all of these functions can be carried out in one single system, problems can be resolved quicker and lead times can potentially be reduced, meaning flexibility can in turn be improved. The most common reason people launch their own business is to be their own boss. Reducing turnover and the cost of hiring: Owning your own business brings some great benefits, and many entrepreneurs are satisfied with their decision after they make the plunge. Triangle Pose (Trikonasana) Muscles worked: latissimus dorsi. When businesses embrace corporate flexibility, it can be possible to weather these challenges. With pricing often emerging as a sticking point for small businesses experiencing a decline in sales, some companies find success with alternative pricing models, rather than simply lowering costs. "We needed to do this because of the economy," Boyd explains. A flexible business model can help a business shift its core focus to accommodate market demands. In a guest blog post for PR In Your Pajamas, co-author of Small Business, BIG Vision Matthew Toren wrote: "I define flexibility in business as the ability for a company to make whatever internal changes are necessary to respond effectively to the changing outward environment, as quickly as possible. 3. Check for Pre-qualified Credit Card Offers, Credit Intel – Financial Education Center. 4. For instance, field engineers working on site with a tablet, or sales personnel checking the best-selling areas close to the network of the service provider. Small businesses can actually be at an advantage in this regard compared to major enterprises, where embedded systems and processes, multiple layers of decision-makers and broader, slower feedback loops can hinder corporate flexibility. You have more … We at VC4 are of course most interested in how our Inventory & Management System (IMS) can help businesses to achieve flexibility, but this piece will also touch on how technology can be embraced for flexible working, allowing employees all over the world to stay connected with their business, wherever they may be based. If you have been searching for a way to breathe fresh life into your business, you may discover that flexibility is all that you need. From being a green company to having an edge in recruitment and improving diversity, the benefits of flexible work for companies can help your business stay ahead of the competition. By hiring sales people belonging to different geographical locations could be one reason. Be sure to work with a professional, like a physical therapist, who can help you pinpoint the causes of your discomfort and suggest the appropriate stretches and exercises for treating it. Small businesses bringing a quality product or service to the table may not be stifled by freelance competition, but encouraged by it. All users of our online services subject to Privacy Statement and agree to be bound by Terms of Service. While we all know flexibility is the ability to adapt easily to different scenarios, how exactly can this be applied to modern business? "We have completely changed the way we market ourselves, from strictly being a PR firm to more of a marketing agency," says Becky Boyd, VP of MediaFirst. In a guest blog post for PR In Your Pajamas, co-author of Small Business, BIG Vision Matthew Toren wrote: "I define flexibility in business as the ability for a company to make whatever internal changes are necessary to respond effectively to the changing outward environment, as quickly as possible. Flexible benefits tend to be something that potential employees are looking for right now, as it allows them to have more control over the issues that they have in their lives. Small businesses that help other business owners to thrive may see an uptick in revenues as those other owners seek any opportunity to increase revenues. From printing to marketing consulting, a multitude of small businesses are meeting the needs of larger businesses and corporations. Working as a team takes a … Business models can offer benefits if companies properly implement and maintain a model. Chief Ideation Officer, CODA Concepts, LLC. Being flexible is not something that business owners should fear; rather it is something that can actually help you take your business to the next level. Less stress: Commuting is generally thought of as one of … At the end of the day, customers want to feel as though they're receiving value. Benefits of flexible working for employees. Importance of Flexibility in the Workplace: There are many situations in the workplace where you will need to be flexible. It keeps us from becoming complacent. "Companies are not hiring PR agencies anymore. When professionals find themselves out of work, many look to freelancing. Individual complications are dependent on the niche market they serve. For boutique firms, the trend toward outsourcing is a plus, as corporations gladly enlist smaller firms to help with non-critical business components. Businesses are willing, even eager, to pay for new clients.". As her email to staff explained: “The best insights come from meeting new people and impromptu team meetings.” It's not necessary to be the first to enter the market; it can be about doing it bigger, faster or better than everyone else. Business models provide companies with a level of organization to ensure information flows smoothly through the company. Flexibility Might Help Ward Off Injury. Have you ever gone to a store to inquire about a product but they’re closed, and their website doesn’t have the information you need? But those in specific target markets are more likely to thrive during periods of global economic strife. A Greener Business. Strategic advantages of the Flexible Firm Model and its Implementation ... As we have discussed earlier the Flexible Firm Model is mostly integrated into flexible large, technologically advanced employers that operate within concentrated or niche markets in order to retain valued knowledge workers. Technology has also forced businesses to remain flexible, adapting their operations to … Competition keeps us awake at night. It keeps us from becoming complacent. Flexible working was brought into force during 2003 and already parents and carers benefit from being able to make flexible working requests. We believe flexibility in business is an art. SaaS and other software companies, for instance, can leverage volume-based pricing or a freemium model (in which basic features are offered for free and advanced features are available on paid tiers). "Every successful business faces increased competition over time. The inventory solution is extremely collaborative, allowing all employees of a firm to access it, meaning they can work in sync to strive towards improving a company's performance. From printing to marketing consulting, a multitude of small businesses are meeting the needs of larger businesses and corporations. © 2021 American Express Company. 2. A flexible company will be willing to try new methods and processes, even when the old processes seem to work just fine. In truth, That’s the beauty of having a digital business working from home – you can shift gear when circumstances dictate and you can … The importance of flexibility in business simply can't be overstated. A service-based business utilizing a cost-plus pricing model may pivot to subscription-based pricing, hourly pricing or tiered, volume-based pricing. But they will outsource to a marketing agency. However, it is not just the network planning and change management aspects of IMS that can improve a company's flexibility, but also its ability to manage workflow, warehouse operations, spares and even floor plans. The network planning and change management features of IMS include its ability to copy equipment, carry out overviews of networks, draw up equipment templates and seek out available routes for network connections and customer services. "Of course we're facing increased competition," says Matt Michel, CEO of Service Nation. Outsourcing can also mean more affordable labor for some businesses. Some small-business owners have succeeded because of the outsourcing trend. Flexible work is an added incentive to staff and a gesture from your business that they are valued, not just as employees, but as people with interests and obligations outside of work. Everyone loves flexibility. Other product-based small businesses find success with bundling product offers to add value or coupling products with services, such as a free one-year support plan with a product purchase, or on the flip side, a free product with the purchase of a service package. ACAS will be developing a Code of Practice on flexible working to support the new law. Some companies will have an internal employee benefits information system (also known as a benefits portal) which will contain the services being … Savvy niche businesses survive in today's business climate, where outsourcing and freelancing are part of the picture. Service-based businesses tend to have a bit more flexibility in terms of pricing models compared to product-based businesses. VC4 B.V. HeadquarterKeesomstraat 10A1821 BS AlkmaarThe NetherlandsCC 37144436Phone +31 72 562 17 71E-mail sales@vc4.com. We have also had to lower our prices to get clients.". During periods of economic turmoil, some businesses may drastically drop prices just to make it, while others may make a killing. When a person is mentally and emotionally flexible … Flexible working arrangements can boost employee well being by reducing stress and strengthen loyalty. A budget can be a document that sets strict spending limits for your small business or a template that changes and grows with your company as you get a better handle on your income and expenses. Whether that means changing your business model, lowering prices, outsourcing or leveraging innovative, value-added pricing strategies, today's small businesses may want to consider embracing corporate flexibility to survive. This multi-user approach and high level of accessibility once again contributes towards a firm's flexibility, as centrally-stored files and data can be found quickly and easily. They seek comfort in what is. However, the research is murkier when it comes to other types of pain. That's why the importance of flexibility in business can't be overstated. Being flexible in your work requires that you keep an open mind. Others must lower their price points to attract new clients, while some leverage innovative pricing models that increase value for customers without sacrificing revenue. Other benefits include flexibility, financial rewards, the opportunity to innovate, and a chance to impact your community. Freelance talent can be a major competitor for established small businesses. internal oblique. A flexible business model helps niche businesses in today's business climate. Flextime is a benefit employees will use and appreciate, helping to keep a stable team in your workplace. Flexibility at the workplace allows one to evaluate what is happening and adjust to the role and responsibilities or even the job being offered. A version of this article was originally published on March 29, 2012. Therefore, in the telecoms industry, with ever-changing networks and modes of communication, it is important that firms are as well-equipped as possible to adopt a flexible approach and deal with changes. "In other words, you're ready for whatever happens in the market and you're able to turn it into opportunity by adjusting to the new paradigm almost immediately.". It’s estimated that by 2025, millennials will make up 75 percent of the global workforce. Get insights and understand more about your current OSS situation and challenges. A key benefit for appealing to these recruits will be your company’s flexible work. If times are tough, some small-business owners consider pivoting to meet the changing needs of consumers in their niche. Increased productivity. Many claims have been made about the positive benefits of flexible work schedules, with those enjoying these arrangements often citing better health as one of its top perks. Businesses that tailor their practices to the needs of their staff is a signal that you want them to stay. Many companies have responded to these changes by automating their business processes and capturing industry-related information and using it to their advantage. Another benefit of flexible working, for employers, is they make your business greener. Although some of the technology a telecom service provider is using may only be able to be accessed in the office or at the company's headquarters, other tasks should be doable from home or another remote location, further improving flexibility. Price points are in constant flux, as some niche markets are in high demand and can realistically raise prices. Savvy niche businesses survive in today's business climate, where outsourcing and freelancing are part of the picture. In our fast-paced, increasingly technological world, it is becoming more and more important for businesses to ensure that they are as flexible as possible in every area of their work, from their employment policies to their network management. You can adapt to unexpected demands in the workplace – sudden surges in work, urgent problems, or an unpredictable event , such as a cyber security breach or financial crash, for instance. Others have increased profits by outsourcing some tasks to offshore talent. 9. A boost to morale helps with levels of absence and can improve productivity. The added competition, which often comes at a lower cost, can pose a challenge for established boutique firms. Different working hours and the extended use of technology might even mean your employer can offer extended hours, services or a greater range to clients or customers. . gluteus maximus … Competition keeps us awake at night. Flextime may lower medical costs and the cost of company-sponsored health insurance. Other benefits of flexible working hours include increased employee engagement, better quality of new recruits, and increased innovation and creativity within the business. It is very important for the employer and employee to be flexible as it creates a streamlined workforce and technology adopted, due to changes in the market. "Small businesses are always looking for more clients, and we can bring that to them very affordably. As it’s an art to have the ability to react, adapt, and change – and thrive as a result. Pricing is another area with two sides to its story. Lean Frees up Space. While standard industry models exist, business owners and managers may choose to design their own. A multitude of small businesses are always looking for more clients, change. Staffers to meet the changing needs of their staff is a signal that you work a. And we can bring that to them very affordably their decision after they make the plunge set challenges.: latissimus dorsi stress: Commuting is generally thought of as one of … Lean Frees up.. Ideation Officer, CODA Concepts, LLC where you will need to be flexible seek... 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Appealing to these recruits will be your company ’ s estimated that by 2025, millennials will up... Bound by terms of pricing models compared to product-based businesses are willing, even eager, to pay for rather. From printing to marketing consulting, a multitude of small businesses are willing, even eager, to for!, engagement and wellbeing – were no longer sacrosanct standard industry models exist, business owners and may... For appealing to these recruits will be developing a Code of Practice on flexible working requests compared to product-based.! Or even the job being offered Chief Ideation Officer, CODA Concepts, LLC especially those desperate secure! The day, every day belonging to different scenarios, how exactly can be... Are satisfied with their decision after they make your business greener, especially desperate... Your business which often comes at a lower cost, can Pose a challenge for established small businesses bringing Quality! 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