If you’ve got a great idea for an app but lack the programming knowledge to build it yourself, you’re in luck. There are dozens of fantastic DIY app-building platforms that can help you bring your idea to life, many of which are designed for people with no coding experience whatsoever. The only problem is that there are so many different platforms to choose from, so how do you know which platform is right for you?

Why Choose a DIY App Builder?

Building a customized app can be an extremely expensive project if you go down the traditional route of hiring a professional mobile app developer. Plus, there is no guarantee you’ll find the right person for the job. There is always a risk that you’ll spend thousands of dollars on the project yet end up with an app that isn’t fit for purpose. Choosing to take the DIY route will undoubtedly save you money and mean you’re in total control of your app build, from start to finish.

Another huge advantage to DIY app building is the development time. Many platforms allow you to create a basic version of your product in as little as half an hour, whereas outsourcing to a professional developer can take weeks, months or even years.

The earliest DIY app building platforms were undeniably limited in what they could achieve, but that is no longer the case. Now, users can often choose from dozens of templates, sophisticated customization options and advanced features akin to those of professionally built mobile apps.

1. Mobile Roadie

Mobile Roadie was formed in 2009 and is one of the better-known app builders in this list. This platform is said to be so easy to use, that anyone can build their own iOS or Android app in around 15 to 20 minutes. Mobile Roadie also boasts a powerful and intuitive content management system, which enables fast, efficient updates to your app’s content.

2. Appery.io

Appery.io is a robust, cloud-based app-building platform known for its ease of use and great customer support. Users benefit from flexible customization options to accommodate those completely new to app building and those with existing coding skills. If you’d like to try your hand at low-level coding, this might be the app builder for you. Appery.io supports both iOS and Android.

3. Appy Pie

Appy Pie is another cloud-based app builder that is compatible with windows, iOS and Android. Unlike many similar tools, Appy Pie has a basic version with no monthly subscription (though you will need to deal with ads). The appointment scheduler makes Appy Pie a great option for salons, fitness professionals, spas, and other similar service providers.

4. GoodBarber

GoodBarber is one of the most versatile and design-focused app builders in our list. Each category of app comes with numerous content integration choices, including social networking, calendar ad audio-visual media. It also has a dedicated eCommerce feature. This builder is compatible with both iOS and Android.

5. App Machine

App Machine launched in 2013 and have so far aided in the creation of over 200,000 iOS and Android apps. They have an impressive range of navigable sample apps, designed to show users what is possible with the builder and to provide inspiration. It also comes with tutorials which demonstrate how to combine features to create different types of app, like travel or eCommerce apps.

6. GameSalad

GameSalad is a fantastic tool for any non-programmer looking to try their hand at game building. It can only be used to build very simple games and in that respect, is not the best option for professional game developers. Users do not need coding skills or any experience with 3D design.

7. BiznessApps

Android and iOS app builder BiznessApps has been used to create more than 500,000 apps since their inception. This platform is a great choice for businesses of all niches due to the wide range of industry-specific features it includes. BiznessApps is perfect for startups.

8. Shoutem

The fifth version Shoutem app builder is easy to use and suitable for a variety of different types of apps. This builder is great for people with no programming experience but does provide access to code for those who want it. Shoutem is a great all-rounder for most businesses, though it does have limited eCommerce options.

9. Appian

Appian is a business app development platform suitable for iOS, Android and web app development. Appian is widely considered to be harder to use than other mobile app builders, so it may not be appropriate for beginners. This platform comes with an impressive range of features suitable for any sized business in finance, healthcare, real estate and dozens of other niches.

10. Adalo

Adalo is suitable for complete beginners and is renowned for being easy to use. The platform is suitable for iOS, Android and web-based apps. They offer fewer customization options than other builders in this list, so the scope for creativity is limited. Adalo offers no access to code but in this respect, it is ideal for non-programmers.

Bringing Your App Idea to Life

With so many DIY app builders available, creating an app has never been more accessible, even if you have no coding experience. Each of the platforms mentioned offers unique strengths, from ease of use and quick setup to advanced customization options, making it easy to find one that fits your needs and vision. Whether you’re looking to build a simple scheduling tool, an eCommerce platform, or even a game, these app builders give you the control, affordability, and flexibility you need to bring your idea to life. Now, with a solid understanding of the best tools on the market, you’re ready to transform your app idea into a reality.

Are you looking to upgrade your business’s customer support service? With a vast array of subscription-based customer support tools available, enhancing your service capabilities has never been easier. These tools streamline customer interactions, improve response times, and help build stronger relationships. Learn about the value of customer service software, the types of tools tailored for different needs, and explore some of the top products on the market to elevate your customer support experience.

Types of Customer Support Tools

Customer support tools come in all shapes and sizes; some are dedicated to a single purpose, while others offer multiple functions. The main types of support tools are:

• Customer community – Set up an online community where your customers can interact and provide peer-to-peer support.
• Social media management – Handle all your social media queries in one place. Set up automated responses.
• Knowledge base – Create an easily accessible online knowledge base where customers can search for answers.
• Live chat and messaging – Let your customers connect directly with a trained member of staff who can answer their questions.
• Emails – Set up a ticket-based email system to organize queries and assign tasks to different team members.
• Phone support – Make contacting your company by phone as fast, easy and affordable as possible.

Live chat, email and phone support tools are the most basic customer support options, but also the most important. At the very least, your user base must have a reliable way to get in touch with a member of your support team when issues or questions arise. These three types of tools – and multi-function support tools – will be the focus of this article.

1. Olark

Function: Live chat only

Olark is a dedicated live chat tool. Unlike others of its kind, Olark allows businesses to customize their live chat features to suit their brand, and automatically change chat language based on location. This tool is incredibly versatile, integrates well with most other customer service software and provides real-time chat metrics.

Olark’s features:

• Auto language change
• Review previous chat transcripts
• Auto response
• Customizable design

2. HubSpot Service Hub

Function: Full service desk

This all-in-one customer service app works best alongside other HubSpot tools, though it can also be used with other software. This tool allows users to program automatic responses to enquiries if there are no human representatives available. It also benefits from a shared inbox facility, which makes it easier to manage large scale communication between your business and customer base.

HubSpot’s features:

• Program bot responses
• Shared inbox facility
• Ticket-based email system
• Customer experience analysis tools and reporting
• Built-in customer feedback surveys

3. Slack

Function: Direct message, message channels, phone calls

Slack is a communication tool with a broad range of features well-suited to customer service. The app’s channel facility can be used to create dedicated IT support and HR support groups, where customers can easily connect with the right member of your team. Slack also allows you to create dedicated in-house channels for different departments of your business. This will make it easier to resolve queries quickly, through communication and collaboration.

Slack’s features:

• Live chat
• Direct and group messaging
• Community forums
• Customer surveys
• Make voice calls

4. Jira Service Desk

Function: Full service desk

Jira Service Management is a comprehensive customer service hub that is particularly well-suited to IT professionals. It claims to have everything an IT service desk needs “out of the box” and compellingly, includes ITIL certifications. This tool lets users attach notes, documents and other files to tasks. It also uses a simple ticket-based task assignment system.

Notable features:

• Live chat
• Ticket-based email system
• Automated responses
• ITIL-certified processes

5. HelpDesk

Function: Email and live chat

HelpDesk is a ticket-based email tool which receives and organizes email correspondence in one easy-access centralized hub. In addition to all basic email functions, HelpDesk lets staff members share support updates with customers to keep them in the loop regarding the status of their query. Conveniently, it also tracks response time, customer satisfaction, and the time spent working on individual support requests.

HelpDesk features:

• Automate repeat tasks
• Analyse team performance
• Send update notifications
• Customizable dashboard

Tools for Customer Service Training

If you’re hoping to improve your customer support service or onboard new employees, consider implementing training sessions. This doesn’t have to be costly or time-consuming, thanks to staff training and e-learning software. Purchasing an “out-of-the-box” course may be expensive and overkill for smaller businesses. If you’re working with a small team or wish to tailor your customer service practices to match your brand, consider using a bespoke e-learning tool.

Choose The Right Tool for The Job

Not all customer service tools are right for every business. Consider the size of your enterprise, budget, and core customer service requirements when making a decision. If possible, take advantage of trials that let you and your team test drive the tools before making an investment.

Building a website used to require the expertise of professional designers and developers, but today that’s no longer the case! Thanks to user-friendly website builders and intuitive drag-and-drop interfaces, creating a website is now accessible to anyone. You can design, build, and launch a website from scratch without any design experience or coding knowledge. With countless customizable templates, building your online presence is easier and faster than ever.

1. WordPress

WordPress is the longest standing and most widely used website building platform. It’s also entirely and open access, which makes it the most affordable option on this list. WordPress users must open their own hosting account, though this is a relatively simple process. This platform is incredibly versatile and can be used to build any type of website. WordPress gives users thousands of pre-set themes and access to nearly 60,000 plugins.

2. Wix

Wix is another widely used website builder which affords users an elevated level of creative control. The platform is known for being easy to use and suitable for first-time website creators. It has an integrated AI feature which can be used to auto-create pages. Like WordPress, Wix is suitable for building any type of website. Users have access to more than 500 templates, but cannot switch themes once the website is live.

3. Squarespace

Squarespace is a slightly more advanced website builder, which may be harder to use than Wix or WordPress. Though this platform is better suited to intermediate and experienced website creators, it does offer greater creative scope and control. There are fewer pre-set designs and templates to choose from, though the options users do have are superior to those of other site-building platforms.

4. Weebly

Many consider Weebly to be the best site-building platform for small businesses, as it includes a range of ecommerce features that are ideal for online selling. It also makes great professional portfolios for those who want to advertise their work. Weebly is very beginner-friendly and allows users to create visually impactful pages, with zero coding knowledge. As they are a hosted platform, Weebly will take care of all the backend support for your site.

5. GoDaddy

GoDaddy’s website building service is a smart choice for people who want a quick and easy option. Their platform is incredibly user-friendly and offers the fastest end-to-end service on the market. Its simplicity also means that GoDaddy offers users limited creative scope, and as such, is not suitable for building complex or extremely unique websites. The platform is easy to use on all devices, whereas other options are only suitable for laptop or desktop.

6. Zyro

Zyro is one of the more basic options on this list, though that does come hand-in-hand with certain advantages. Though Zyro’s features are limited in comparison to most other website builders, the features it does offer are excellent. They offer a limited range of templates with a few customization options, though the templates themselves are high quality in terms of UX design. Zyro websites are easy to build and simple to update.

7. Shopify

Shopify is specifically designed for ecommerce websites. The platform is currently used by half a million businesses worldwide. As a dedicated ecommerce site builder, Shopify includes selling features you will not find on other platforms, like inventory management and advanced marketing tools.

It’s relatively easy to use and has a wide range of templates to choose from. Users can also link their website to an in-store location, to track and manage all business sales in one place.

Tips for Choosing the Right Platform

Choosing the right platform for your website is not always straightforward. As you can see from this list, several of the most popular platforms are multi-purpose in terms of the types of sites they can build. Plus, most platforms come with a similar set of standard features.

Budget is important – This is especially true if you’re a small business or just getting started. Any sales you experience could easily be cancelled out by an expensive monthly subscription and other add-on costs.

Consider the long term – Be mindful of how you may want to develop your website as your business grows and changes, and what you may want to add as new design features emerge. Some website building platforms can easily be integrated with other tools, while others cannot. Similarly, some platforms are slower to fix bugs and add updates. These are things you need to consider if your endeavour is likely to be long term.

Keep your purpose in mind – Try not to be lured in by impressive features if the basic function of the website builder doesn’t match your requirements. Do you really need thousands of templates or plugins? Choosing a platform that is fit for purpose should always be your top priority.

Take advantage of trials – Do not jump straight into a paid version of a platform if a try version is available. Utilizing the trial period will give you the chance to find out just how suitable the builder is for your specific business and level of tech-y-ness. It may also allow you to compare two similar platforms if you’re not sure which one is the right fit.

Gathering customer feedback was once a drawn out, subjective and highly inaccurate business. Prior to the internet, companies struggled to improve their services and increase customer satisfaction, without access to reliable information about their customer’s behavior and overall experience with their brand. Fortunately, there are now dozens of highly customizable and trustworthy tools that can automatically gather this information for you.

Why gather customer feedback?

Gathering varied and accurate customer feedback is essential for every business, without exception. The most successful companies are those who understand their customer base and implement improvements based on real feedback. If a customer doesn’t like one aspect of your service or is disappointed with a product, you need to understand why. Simply knowing that dissatisfaction has occurred is not enough, as it will not help you to avoid similar mistakes in future.

Keep in mind too that the very act of asking your customers for feedback increases customer satisfaction, even if the feedback you receive is not positive. When customers are given the chance to speak up about what they do and don’t like, they are made to feel valued and even more invested in your brand.

We’ve put together a list of our favorite feedback-gathering tools, to help you find the right fit for your business and customer base.

1. Typeform

Typeform is one of the best feedback-gathering tools we’ve encountered, primarily for its ability to encourage customers to enter detailed responses. After all, even the most sophisticated feedback tools are useless if your customers neglect to fill them in. This tool comes with a variety of attractive customizable templates to entice users and includes tips to help you ask the right questions. Typeform is compatible with all platforms.

2. Userbrain

Userbrain is designed to gather information about test-customer behaviors, rather than qualitative feedback. While testers are using your website or digital product, this clever tool automatically records their movements to help identify potential issues and areas for improvement. Userbrain is a high-profile UX tool used by some well-known brands, including Virgin, Spotify, and Red Bull. It’s is available on all platforms, though their mobile version is less user-friendly.

3. Hotjar

Hotjar uses heat map-style visuals to illustrate customer behavior. Built for product designers, UX designers and marketing professionals, this tool shows you where your visitors spend time, how they scroll, and which pathways they follow while navigating a website or app. It also uses cool-toned visuals to indicate problem areas, where customers are taking too much time to complete a task or fill something in. Like the other tools on this list, Hotjar includes a poll feature for customers to provide qualitative feedback.

4. Sprinklr

Sprinklr is a qualitative feedback-gathering tool. It helps you develop an online customer community which will benefit both your business and your customer base. Users gain fast, relevant answers to support questions and the opportunity to provide feedback. Customer-generated content encourages greater engagement, and the tool itself “rewards” community members for participation.

5. UserReport

This intuitive tool is deployed as an integrated part of an app or website. UserReport’s survey widget provides easy-to-understand data demonstrating to what extent your customers or visitors like and engage with your product. The feedback widget allows you to act on this information, to quickly fix bugs, and improve problem areas. It also sorts user feedback by demographic.

6. Loop

Loop is a sophisticated habit-tracking tool that allows you to both measure and improve customer satisfaction. It includes an integrated feedback forum which notifies you when customers leave or reply to comments. One great feature of this tool is that customers can rate the validity of other feedback comments, making it easy to weed out common sticking points and problems.

7. Revoo

This clever feedback tool allows you to share approved customer reviews with new visitors to your website. These reviews can only be made by people who have used your product or made a purchase, which makes Revoo a great tool for avoiding fake feedback. The feedback collection tool also asks customers about their overall experience with your website and company, making it easy to improve your service.

8. Canny

Canny provides a simple and intuitive way to gather, organize and act on customer feedback. Some users report that the app may not be suitable for gathering information on multiple products and services, however, it works well for businesses with simple product offerings and smaller companies. What’s more, Canny makes it easy to act on customer feedback and thus quickly improve your service and offerings.

9. Feedbackify

Feedbackify is well-known feedback gathering tool, praised for its flexibility and ease of use. The tool includes a “drag and drop” editing function, which lets users create and customize their own feedback forms. In this respect, it’s perfect for finding out what really matters to your customers. Feedbackify takes feedback in the form of comments, ratings, and suggestions. Businesses can view feedback in real-time, or filter based on topic.

Finally …

Always check what existing users have said about a customer feedback tool before making your final decision. Every company’s needs are different, so what is right for someone else may be completely inappropriate for your customer base or product.

Remote working or working from home has become the new norm. While there are definite advantages to the switch from office-based work, managers and team leaders often have a hard time keeping their teams motivated and their projects running smoothly. Having the right remote working tools can increase communication, boost morale, ease admin issues and keep important projects on track. Fortunately, remote working tools can make a huge difference!

1. Trello

Job: Project Management

Trello is widely regarded as  versatile and easy to use. The platform uses a card-based system for project management, which allows users to break down complex projects into separate tasks. Each project is assigned to a board, and each task, a card on the project board. It also offers the ability to assign tasks to individual team members, who can then mark the task as complete. Trello is compatible with web, android and iOS.

Key Benefits:

• 2-factor authentication
• Set task and project due dates
• Assign tasks to specific team members
• No individual user fees

2. ProofHub

Job: Project Management

ProofHub is marketed as an all-in-one, remote project management solution. Like Trello, it allows users to break complex projects down into tasks and assign them to individual team members. ProofHub also offers features for time-tracking, file sharing, and team chat. The platform is available for iOS, Android and web. It’s a great solution for remote teams looking to manage all aspects of their remote working environment with one, easy to use platform.

Key Benefits:

• All-in-one remote work management
• No individual user fees
• Set task and project due dates
• Simple and easy to use

3. Wrike

Job: Project Management

Wrike is a great platform for managing complex projects with multiple stakeholders. It offers a collaborative proofing feature which lets various contributors leave comments on documents. Wrike is known for its user-friendly, minimalist design and intuitive interface. Like Trello and ProofHub, Wrike can be used to create custom workflows, assign tasks, and set deadlines. The platform is compatible with Android, iOS and web.

Key Benefits:

• User-friendly interface
• Minimalist design
• Collaborative proofing facility
• Assign tasks and set deadlines

4. Slack

Job: Communication

Slack is the remote communication platform of choice for many well-known brands. The platform allows users to create dedicated channels for projects and teams, to avoid repeat communication over via direct messenger. However, it does offer a direct messaging facility for times when this is more appropriate. Slack is available on Windows, MacOS, Android and iOS. It can also be integrated with many popular third party apps like Salesforce Chatter and Google Drive.

Key Benefits:

• Integrates with third-party apps
• Create dedicated project channels
• Affordable for small businesses
• Direct messaging facility

5. Microsoft Teams

Job: Communication

Microsoft Teams is one of the world’s most popular remote communication tools which allows for direct messaging, group chats, and reliable video conferencing. This tool facilitates all necessary one-on-one, group-based and face-to-face communication, making it the ideal communication solution. It also allows team members to enhance messages with emojis, gifs, and stickers – all of which are workplace friendly. Microsoft Teams is available on Windows, MacOS, iOS and Android.

Key Benefits:

• Monthly fee includes all Office 365 products
• Video chat facility
• One-on-one and group messages
• Workplace friendly emojis, stickers and gifs

6. Krisp

Job: Communication

Krips is the ideal communication tool for teams who engage in regular business meetings and value great sound quality. It comes with intelligent noise-reduction software which automatically detects and cancels out background noise. The platform is affordable, user-friendly and easy to install, though it is not compatible with Android or iOS. Unlike Microsoft Teams and Slack, Krisp does not include a text-messaging facility and can only be used for audio and video communication.

Key Benefits:

• Noise-reduction software
• Ideal for teams which only communicate via audio or video
• Affordable
• Easy to use

7. Google Drive

Job: File Sharing

Google Drive is one of the most widely used file sharing platforms. This highly versatile platform allows teams to share videos, audio files, documents, presentations and images. Users can choose to share via a link or by adding specific team members to a file. Preferences are easy to change and customizable, in that files can be set as editable, or view only. Google Drive works with Web, Windows, MacOS, Android and iOS.

Key Benefits:

• Customizable permission preferences
• Very user friendly
• Compatible with all file types
• Cloud-based storage

8. Microsoft OneDrive

Job: File sharing

OneDrive is the ideal platform for flexible, reliable file sharing. In addition to sharing documents, presentations, videos and audio files saved in OneDrive, users can choose to access files offline. The sharing facility is intuitive and easy to use. Simply add users to a document or copy and send a shareable link. OneDrive is available on Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android and web.

Key Benefits:

• Choose files to access offline
• Cloud-based storage
• Compatible with all file types
• Easy, intuitive interface

9. TimeCamp

Job: Time Tracking

TimeCamp allows managers to quickly and easily view what each team member is currently doing. The time tracking facility can be activated or deactivated at 10-minute intervals, making it the perfect platform for accurate tracking of hours worked. TimeCamp also includes analytics features which show how much time was spent on different tasks for each project, or by day. It is available on Windows, MacOS, Android, iOS and web.

Key Benefits:

• Handy analytics tools
• Accurate time tracking
• Affordable

10. TimeDoctor

Job: Time Tracking

TimeDoctor is an advanced and versatile piece of time management software, trusted by large corporations and SMEs alike. In addition to time tracking, TimeDoctor includes convenient project management and employee monitoring tools. It allows users to distinguish between employees and freelance workers, making it easy to track project progress and manage billable hours. This platform also comes with a pay slip generation feature, which can be set to either weekly or monthly pay slips. Unlike other time management apps, TimeDoctor also monitors time spent in meetings, on calls and using the internet. Unfortunately, it is only compatible with Android and iOS – there are no web or desktop versions.

Key Benefits:

• Track meeting and call time separately
• Pay slip generation feature
• Accurate time tracking

What to look for in remote working tools

Nothing kills morale and productivity quite like slow or uncooperative software. Choosing tools that are accessible and easy to use is now even more important, as your team members do not necessarily have the safety net of the office environment and onsite IT help while working through challenges or familiarizing themselves with new software. Though affordability is important, most companies should prioritize ease of use and accessibility. You might ensure the latter by choosing cloud-based programs and tools that are available on both mobile and desktop.

Virtual phone numbers do not rely on traditional phone lines and are not tied to a single device. These numbers can be used to receive calls anywhere, using any device that’s equipped with the necessary software. This allows people to accept work-related calls on a personal device, while still using their business number and without being tied to a location. The person making the call will not be aware that they’re using a virtual phone line.

How does a virtual phone number work?

While landline phones and cellphones rely on physical infrastructure, virtual phone numbers operate via the internet. Users can elect one or more alternative numbers or devices, to which phone calls will be forwarded to. This makes it possible to pick and choose where you receive calls and at what time, without callers needing to try calling different numbers.

Benefits

Businesses of all sizes may benefit from using a virtual phone system. Here are some of the main advantages them:

1. Never miss a call

Setting calls to divert to your cellphone or laptop means you’ll never miss a business call and can ensure that clients or coworkers can always get ahold of you. Since multiple numbers can be added to the system, you can also set up calls to divert to a different employee if somebody is out sick or on holiday.

2. Save money

Depending on the size of your business, virtual phone lines are often far more affordable than traditional phone networks. Significant phone bill savings can be had by switching to a virtual system. Pricing is extremely competitive, as the market is crowded with virtual phone line providers to choose from.

3. Work anywhere

Virtual phone numbers allow you to take business calls anywhere with a reliable internet connection. This means you can work at home, in a café, library, at a client’s office, or anywhere off site, while still accepting business calls via the same number. Given how prevalent remote working has become, this is an enormous advantage.

4. Professionalism

Virtual phone lines can help businesses create or maintain a professional image, as all incoming calls can be managed via a single company number associated. This makes things easier for clients, customers, suppliers, vendors, and anybody else making contact via the line, as they won’t need to remember multiple numbers. It also means your customer calls will never be left unanswered, and you won’t end up with half a dozen phone messages every time you step away from your desk.

5. Multiple numbers with a single connection

Depending on your budget and requirements, you have the option to add multiple phone numbers to your virtual phone system. This can be useful for SMEs and larger businesses with multiple departments, sites or service offerings, who do not want all phone inquiries coming through to the same device.

6. Customizable plans

Virtual phone systems are highly customizable. You’ll be able to choose from a range of options, features and services that can be personalized to suit your business needs. Many of the following features are offered as standard with VoIP systems:

• Video conference calling
• Interactive voice response (IVR)
• Auto callbacks
• Call queuing
• Business SMS
• Call recording
• Business phone analytics
• Visual voicemail
• Call management features (blocking, do not disturb, call transfer, custom greetings and hold music)

Are there any disadvantages to virtual phone numbers?

The advantages of having a virtual phone number considerably outweigh the disadvantages, though there are several potential downsides to be aware of. One of the biggest concerns, which can apply to any business, is the degradation of boundaries between work and personal life. This is perhaps more of an issue for very small businesses, or those run by one person. Being able to take a call at any time outside business hours or while out of the office can affect work-life balance and eventually lead to burnout. However, this can be mitigated by disabling call forwarding outside work hours or on your day off.

Another possible downside is inconsistent call quality. As virtual phone lines are internet-based, they require a strong internet connection. This could become a problem if you or your employees need to take calls in remote, low signal areas. To avoid any unwelcome disruption to call reliability or quality, it’s advisable to choose a provider with an efficient and readily available customer service department.

Who should have a virtual phone number?

Though there is still a place for traditional on-site landlines, most businesses can improve operations and reduce costs by switching to a virtual phone system. However, businesses in the following industries may find virtual phone lines especially advantageous:

• Healthcare Professionals: Doctors, dentists and other healthcare professionals often experience a huge influx of calls at certain times of the day. A virtual phone line can ease the pressure by diverting calls to additional devices at peak times. A queuing system would also be advantageous, if there are often more incoming calls than there are employees to take them.
• Startups: The scalable nature of virtual phone systems makes them a great choice for fast-growing startup companies, who will eventually need to add additional numbers, features and services. They can also help to keep costs down, leaving more money for growth and development.
• Tradespeople: Builders, electricians, plumbers and other tradespeople who frequently move between sites can maintain better communications with customers and coworkers, by switching to virtual phone numbers.

How much does it cost to get a virtual phone line?

The cost of getting a virtual phone line varies significantly based on which provider, plan and features you choose. The size of your operation will also have an impact. Here are some of the variables that can affect cost:

• The volume of calls you receive
• The caller’s location
• Add on features
• The type of virtual number
• The length of your plan (rolling monthly contracts are likely to be more expensive than 12 or 24-month contracts)

Types of virtual phone numbers

There are two main types of virtual phone number:

Local virtual numbers

These are also known as Direct Inward Dialing (DID) numbers. They can be used to re-direct calls to any location around the world. However, the number itself is linked to a specific location (I.e., it follows the same format as other local numbers). Local virtual numbers work well for businesses who wish to be associated with a specific area, no matter where the call is being taken.

Toll-free virtual numbers

In the United States, toll-free virtual numbers let callers connect with a business without being charged. North American toll-free numbers start with 833, 844, 855, 966, 877, or 888. You may also be able to pay extra for an original 800 number, if your provider offers this service. Toll-free virtual numbers work well for large corporations with busy customer service departments, as they can increase customer satisfaction by making incoming calls free.

Learn More Today!

A virtual phone number offers an appealing, adaptable communication option for people looking to separate personal and business calls or those needing flexibility in managing calls across regions. As a highly customizable solution, virtual numbers have the potential to streamline communication, providing a cost-effective alternative to traditional phone services.

However, before adopting a virtual number, it’s essential to assess the limitations—such as dependence on internet quality and emergency call constraints—to determine if it’s the right fit. For those who need an adaptable communication tool, a virtual number can be a practical and efficient choice.

In an increasingly digital business environment, security is more critical than ever. Cyber threats have evolved significantly, making traditional security measures insufficient to safeguard valuable data and systems. Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) offers an additional layer of protection, enhancing security by requiring users to verify their identity in two distinct ways. This article explores why implementing 2FA can be a game-changer for businesses and discusses its benefits, potential limitations, and considerations for adopting it effectively.

What is 2FA?

Two-factor authentication (2FA) is a type of multi-factor authentication which is designed to improve account security, by using two different methods of identification – these are the “factors”. This, as opposed to entering a single password upon login.

2FA was created to offer an additional layer of security, to make sure the person logging in to an account is who they claim to be. Passwords can easily be stolen or guessed, but with 2FA a password alone is not enough to gain access to a protected account.

2FA kicks in once the subject has entered their standard password and/or username for the account in question. At this point, the account holder will be asked to enter further information in the form of something only they would have. For example:

• A token (hardware or software)
• A fingerprint or face scan
• A push notification sent to the user’s device (based on phone number or email)

Why Your Business Needs Two-Factor Authentication

It is a common misconception that only large businesses need to worry about hackers. However, small businesses, with their swathes of sensitive customer data and minimal security, are actually prime targets for cyber criminals. Relying solely on a single password to protect an account is a recipe for disaster.

Weak to medium-strength passwords are easy to guess, and even strong passwords can be hacked. Introducing two-factor authentication will protect your sensitive data by stopping even the most sophisticated hackers.

Different Types of 2FA

There are several types of 2FA, some of which are more secure than others. The key thing to note is that any two-factor authentication is better than none whatsoever. Accounts secured by a password alone are extremely likely to be hacked, sooner or later. Here are some examples of 2FA, with their advantages and disadvantages.

Hardware tokens

Hardware tokens are the original 2FA identification method. These tokens are small, simple devices that only the user would have access to, which generate single-use codes upon login. Card readers for bank accounts are a type of MFA hardware token. This method tends to be less secure, as it relies on the user having access to the token.

Software tokens

A software “token” is an automatically generated, one-time password (OTP) created by an app on the user’s device. This is an especially secure method of identification because the codes in question are usually only valid for a very short period of time, which makes them incredibly difficult to steal. Plus, the codes themselves are generated on the device, which adds an extra layer of security.

Biometrics

Biometric 2FA tokens are not widely used, however they are considered to be the most secure.  Examples of biometric 2FA methods are fingerprints, retina scans, facial recognition, and voice recognition. This type of 2FA is extremely secure as it is not based on information that can be easily guessed, intercepted, or stolen. It also has the advantage of being a quick and convenient method of identification. However, accounts covered by biometric 2FA are extremely difficult to recover and can be expensive to set up.

Push notifications

Push notification verification is widely used. Rather than relying on a software token, this system sends a notification directly to the user’s registered number or email, asking them to approve or decline the login attempt. This type of 2FA only works with devices that are connected to the internet, which is a downside. On the whole, push notification 2FA is both secure and incredibly convenient for the user. It also has the advantage of making the user aware that someone is trying to log in to their account, giving them the opportunity to deny access and flag the breach.

Time To Up Your Security

2FA is more important now than ever before, as the shift to remote work has opened even more opportunities for cyber criminals. Data breaches, even small ones, can be catastrophic for large businesses.

With this in mind, it is easy to imagine that a small business with limited resources may never recover from a successful cyber-attack. If your accounts currently rely on single-factor authentication, you should take steps to introduce 2FA as soon as possible.