How companies are leveraging technology to navigate inflation

In the face of inflation and earnings recession, companies in Kenya are turning to technology for optimization and higher yields. Veera Natrajan, the Country Manager at Zoho Kenya, shared insights on how businesses can leverage technology to navigate these challenging times. Technology adoption is key to increasing productivity and reducing costs for companies in Kenya. By digitalizing operations, companies can streamline processes across departments such as finance, logistics, human resources, and sales and marketing. This not only boosts productivity but also ensures clean and accurate accounting practices, leading to higher earnings. Moreover, the affordability of technology is a crucial factor for businesses, especially during an earnings recession. Software as a Service (SaaS) solutions are becoming increasingly popular as they offer cost-effective alternatives to traditional IT infrastructure investments. Companies like Zoho provide pricing in local currency, making technology adoption more accessible and affordable. Low-cost technology platforms are gaining momentum in Kenya, offering businesses the ability to build customized applications at a fraction of the cost of traditional solutions. These platforms allow for easy deployment and minimal coding requirements, catering to the diverse processes and needs of different companies in the region. Data privacy and protection are paramount considerations when incorporating technology into business operations. With stringent data protection regulations in place and compliance with international standards such as GDPR and BPR, companies like Zoho prioritize customer data security and privacy. This ensures that sensitive information remains safeguarded and inaccessible to unauthorized parties. The shift towards hybrid work models, accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic, has had a lasting impact on how companies operate in Kenya. While some have returned to full-time office work, many continue to embrace hybrid models to optimize costs and enhance flexibility. SaaS tools play a crucial role in supporting this transition, offering customizable plans and collaborative solutions that meet the evolving needs of businesses. As Kenya navigates economic challenges exacerbated by inflation, technology remains a strategic asset for companies seeking to boost efficiency, reduce costs, and adapt to changing work dynamics. By embracing innovative and cost-effective tech solutions, businesses can position themselves for sustainable growth and resilience in the face of uncertainty.