Wednesday 30 September 2015

4 tips to Optimise your Email for Mobile Devices!

74% of smartphone owners use their devices to check their email (Source: Gartner)

It has been estimated by Radicati that by the end of 2018, mobile email users are expected to total over 2.2 billion & 80% of email users are expected to access their email accounts via a mobile device.

Rather than the statistics, if you check at how you check your email versus how you were doing it just a few years ago, you will realise the importance of smart phone email compatibility.
Mobile Email Usage! Source: PanoramaStock
Mobile Email Usage! Source: PanoramaStock

The rate at which emails are opened on a mobile device is rapidly increasing. So, when it comes to your business’s approach to email marketing, you need to make sure your messages look great no matter what size screen your audience is using.

Here are 5 easy but important tips to optimise your email so that it is responsive to both small and big screens alike:

Formatting

An easy way to make your emails more mobile-friendly is to use a single-column template. This will make it easy for people to see all of your information without having to click to zoom in. People consume information differently on a smaller screen. One of the biggest differences is how quickly they can scroll through and scan information. As such, you should format your email content for people who like to scan. Start with a short header message that sets up the content people are about to read. The copy that follows should be clear and concise. Replace lengthy paragraphs with short, snappy sentences that let people know what you’re doing, why it’s important to them, and what action you’d like them to take. You should also avoid lengthy paragraphs that can slow down the reader and distract them from giving your content the attention it needs.

Images and Branding

Include an eye-catching image that helps the reader connect with the message you’re sending out. Bear in mind that on many mobile devices, images won’t display automatically and some will turn off displaying images by default. As such, it is important not to overload your email with too many images and to always make sure you have text to provide the details people need.

Include High Resolution Images

High resolution images will ensure images are sharp and crisp. Readers will be pleased with the content present. More than that, it will improve the click-through rate of images' hyperlink!

Strong Call-to-Action

Now that you’ve set your message up to work well on mobile, the last step is to make sure your readers clearly understand the action you want them to take. If you want people to show up to an event, or call to place an order, it is important to clearly state what you want them to do and give them the information they need to take action. If the next action is online - to visit your website, register for an event etc. then you should include a link that’s visible and easy to click on any screen size. Remember that on mobile devices, your readers need to be able to use their finger to click or scroll. Avoid stacking multiple links or putting different links too close together. Whenever possible, add a button that’s easy to click from a phone’s small screen.

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Wednesday 23 September 2015

Why businesses can benefit from cloud accounting?



Cloud computing has become increasingly pervasive over the last few years and many software developers now provide cloud-based services. But what is the cloud, and how can cloud accounting software benefit your business?



‘The cloud’ is another term for ‘the internet’. Cloud computing refers to the practice of accessing data or programs over the internet, instead of using your hard drive or office server. Cloud accounting software is software that can be accessed online. Traditional small business accounting programs require installation and can present a number of problems:

·    Costs and complications of backing up data and installing upgrades
·    Insecure data storage and protection
·    Limitations on the amount of devices running the software
·    Limitations on the amount of people able to access the software

Cloud accounting software eliminates many of these issues. For example, data backups and software upgrades are carried out automatically, saving your team the laborious job of performing these tasks manually. In addition, data security is enhanced: you no longer have to worry about a laptop or hard drive falling into the wrong hands, as the data is stored remotely and can only be accessed with the correct passwords. This also means that incidents such as fires or floods no longer carry the risk of permanent destruction of client data.

In terms of software access, cloud accounting companies provide a number of options, giving business owners greater opportunity to enhance teamwork and collaboration without compromising control. Many companies provide flexible price plans, allowing businesses to scale their accounting function according to their needs and budget. 

Perhaps the most significant advantage of cloud accounting is that it allows businesses to access their data and software from any device with an internet connection 24/7. Small business owners can therefore stay connected to their data and accountants from almost anywhere, providing greater control and peace of mind. 

Top 3 benefits to your business:

1.         Clear, real-time overview of your current financial situation
2.         No installation necessary and updates are automatic, allowing for more time to be spent on more important work
3.         Everything is backed up automatically, and your data is more secure

Talk to us about getting a demo, we’d be delighted to show you how easy it is to move your accounts to the cloud!