Every company aims to achieve their goals and objectives with the help of the employees they hire. Moreover, it is important to supervise and assess employee performance to ensure desired results. This is where performance management tools come into the picture. Performance management tools are essential for a business to monitor, supervise, and quantify its employees’ performance. Most performance management tools are available to businesses in the form of software such as Trackstar and Performance Pro.

By using the right performance management tools, companies are able to document salary actions, provide constructive feedback to the employees on their performance, and identify good and bad performers. The tools also help companies take decisions related to promotions, appraisals, and rewards. Additionally, companies are also able to get constructive feedback from their employees and revise the protocol if needed.

Companies can boost their productivity and outperform their competition by incorporating effective performance management software. Performance management software offer tools that help a company in many ways, some of which are discussed below.

Consistency
Consistency is required in promotions, transfers, appraisals and other essential actions. When a proper performance management system is in place, companies can able to better manage these actions along with consistency.

Motivation
Highly motivated employees are more loyal to a company, which in turn helps the company to retain the high performing employees and reach toward the common goals.

Boosting morale
Using performance management tools effectively help a company recognize top performers and reward them. The recognition and appreciation motivate the employees to work more efficiently.

Understanding training needs
One of the most important roles of an organization is to improve employee performance by providing the required training. Right performance management tools help an organization to understand those needs and take necessary measures to provide them to the employees.

Self-assessment
Self-assessment is useful as it helps people identify their strengths and areas of improvement. Certain tools of performance management systems allow employees to get 360-degree feedback, helping assessment of employee performance and behavior at the workplace.

Spotting underperformers
Most organizations face obstructions due to employees when it comes to achieving short- and long-term goals. It can be challenging to identify employees whose performance has been sub-par. Performance management systems can be, therefore, used to spot them and take effective actions.

There are many options for antivirus software programs available in the market to choose from. In order to make the best choice, one must know what features to look for in an antivirus software. There are some features that can be a cherry on the cake but then there are some that are a must-have. Below are some of the must-have features to look for in an antivirus software-

Malware detection as well as removal
The signature detection is one of the most important parts of an antivirus software. It is important to ensure that any incoming virus threats are detected often and accurately. The time taken to remove any threat from the computer should be quick and must ensure that the program remains in contact with a PC security server to stay updated against any latest malware threats.

Powerful firewall
One wants their computer to remain safe after an antivirus software has scanned the computer and eradicated all the potential threats. Some antivirus software programs have a feature called a powerful firewall that helps the user keep their device safe by easily blocking incoming threats before they come in contact with the hard drive.

Identity protection
Identity theft is one of the cybercrimes that is rising in the recent years. As more and more businesses are going digital, it has become easier for a hacker to steal the information, drain the bank accounts of the business, or even sell the personal data to various advertising agencies. In several crucial ways, a good antivirus software will ensure that the personal data is protected. One simple way of protection, for example, is a verification being conducted every time one puts in credit card or any bank information online to ensure that a virus has not hijacked the device.

Backup
In a worst case scenario, one may have to rely on a backup to restore their system. A good antivirus software helps in creating a backup of the computer’s most important files. This allows the user to easily restore the backup if needed.

Maintenance features
If one is paying a good amount of money for a antivirus software, then one may expect something more than simply fighting malware. There are various antivirus software programs that tend to optimize the computer and ensure that the computer runs smooth, safe, and fast. Thus, taking care of its maintenance.

When it comes to employee evaluation, performance is a highly integral parameter; one of the best ways to evaluate performance is through a management system. Businesses often thrive when they incorporate effective performance management systems. It allows businesses to effectively supervise the employees from different departments and drive them toward common goals.

Performance management software is a tool that managers use for writing job descriptions, expectations, conveying job objectives, tracking performance, giving and receiving feedback, and maintaining workplace transparency. Every performance management software has key tools and techniques that include the following.

Key performance indicators (KPIs)
KPIs help companies measure the performance of different business units, projects, and individuals in relation to company goals. Companies use KPI for better decision making by evaluating factors that affect their productivity.

Performance appraisals
Along with KPIs, performance appraisal is another important performance management tool that allows companies to measure and evaluate an employee’s behavior and achievements over a period of time. It also helps companies successfully align the efforts of an employee with the companies’ goals and objectives. Performance appraisal also helps a company to identify the abilities and competencies of the employees in order to help them in their personal and professional growth. Additionally, companies use this tool to take a decision regarding incentives, rewards, and raise in salary.

360-degree feedback
A 360-degree feedback allows employees to get feedback not only from their managers, but also from their peers, subordinates, and the people they interact with externally, such as clients and vendors. This helps a company understand what everyone feels about working with a particular employee. The feedback remains anonymous to the employee as it can create unwanted tension and feelings of resentment between the employee and the people who gave their feedback.

Management by objectives
This tool in performance management software includes setting up specific objectives followed by an action plan to achieve them. Management by objective improves the overall productivity of the organization as its approach is result oriented. This tool allows the employees to view their achievements, which helps the employees stay motivated. It also helps the company measure each employee’s performance and compare it with the set standards.

Reward and recognition programs
This tool helps the employees stay motivated by giving them recognition and reward for their performance. There are other benefits of rewards and recognition that include shaping the employees’ behavior and work ethic, making them feel important and appreciated, and retaining them. Every performance management software should, therefore, have a rewards and recognition tool.

If you have never had enough of the Google Pixel phones, Google Pixel 3 is here to steal your breath away! Amidst much fanfare and speculations, Google Pixel 3 has been released with a plethora of new features. However, Google Pixel 2 is still on the market and you may want to know how the new flagship phones stand apart. The well-renowned brand follows the tradition of a new release every year and how much of a difference can12 months make? Well, there are several substantial differences to look out for.

If you are intrigued by the all-new Google Pixel 3, then here are some notable differences that set it apart from its predecessor, the Google Pixel 2.

Display
Google Pixel 3 does not stray away too far from Google Pixel 2 in terms of design; however, it features a bigger screen. The smartphone also comes with a higher resolution and a taller 18:9 aspect ratio. Also, the two models use OLED and feature bezels above and below the screen.

Operating system and power
 In terms of power, Google Pixel 3 is bound to be more powerful than its predecessor. Thus, no prizes for guessing. Google Pixel 3 comes with an upgraded octa-core Snapdragon 845 chipset while being paired with 4GB of RAM. This makes the model a top in the game as it feels like it will never lacks in power. Google Pixel 3 also features a Titan M security module that works toward ensuring phone security. In terms of storage, both the models come with 128GB packing minimal difference.

Camera
The most notable upgrade of Google Pixel 3 comes in the form of the camera. The rear camera continues to stay the same with a few improvements with the modes and features. The notable difference is packed with the front-facing camera, where the model features a dual-lens 8 MP camera. There is no doubt, the enhanced camera is a treat to smartphone photographers.

Google Pixel 3 indubitably is a solid upgrade to Google Pixel 2. A major portion of the components have seen an upgrade, which may or may not be viewed to be game-changing. For those looking to get their hands on the Google flagship smartphone, it is affordable and comfortable to handle.

The Samsung Galaxy S9 created quite a furor when it was released on March 16, 2018. The same kind of exuberance was witnessed during the launch of Samsung S10 and its variants S10e and S10+. With these phones, one can assert that the next generation of Galaxy has arrived. In fact, the S10 manifests a remarkable upgrade from the premium phones manufactured by Samsung in recent years. However, those who bought the S9 the previous year are left contemplating whether the S10 is a worthy upgrade and if it is sensible to invest in a new phone, as they are quite pricey.

So, take a closer look at some of the prominent features of the Samsung S10 and S9 and acquaint yourself with the major changes and latest additions.

Design
With the Samsung S10 and its variants, you’ll have more smartphone models to choose from. The S9’s models offered only two sizes: 5.8 inches and 6.2 inches with the Galaxy S9 and S9+, respectively. Whereas, with the S10, you’ll have the option to choose from four sizes. The Samsung S10 models are available in the four sizes. They are 5.8 inches (S10e), 6.1 inches (S10), 6.4 inches (S10 Plus), and 6.7 inches (S10 5G).

Another major change to the S10’s design is its placement of the fingerprint sensor. The previous models had the sensor at the back of the phone, but the S10’S fingerprint scanner is embedded right underneath the screen with an ultrasonic fingerprint sensor.

When it comes to color variants, the Samsung S10 doesn’t disappoint. It offers the S10 models in Prism white, black, and blue. Along with that, it also has ceramic white and black. The glossy finish with vibrant, prismatic colors encapsulated by a polished metal frame makes the phone appear sleek and attractive.

Display
Samsung’s Infinity Display has been garnering a lot of attention since it’s was first introduced two years ago. As a result, Samsung stuck to the AMOLED screen with the S10 but with slight changes. Keeping in accordance with the new Infinity O approach to this phone’s display, the phone’s front camera is located in a hole punch that is located in the device’s upper right corner. Doing so shrinks the bezel at the top of the phone, unlike the iPhone X’s style notch. In fact, the Samsung S10 sports an even wider hole to accommodate two front cameras perfectly. Also, the phone manufacturers have redesigned the phone to remove interruptions from view. With no-notch, no distractions, precise laser cutting, dynamic AMOLED, and on-screen security this series is easily the most innovative Galaxy screen yet.

Performance
With the S10, Samsung replaces the Snapdragon 845 inside the S9 to Qualcomm’s new Snapdragon 855. So, the S10 will be faster than its predecessor. It also offers improved performance while using less energy due to its more resourceful processor. The phone’s performance doesn’t become sluggish even if one watches live broadcasts and plays a graphics-heavy game.

When it comes to its storage, S10 has more to offer than the S9; the S9 offered a 4GB RAM and the S9 Plus upped it to 6GB. However, the S10 series starts with 6GB RAM for the S10e and 8GB for the S10. This goes as high as 12GB for the S10 Plus.

Cameras
The S9 featured a single 12-megapixel lens with variable aperture and the S9 Plus doubled it. However, every version of the Samsung S10 lineup features multiple cameras on the back. Moreover, the primary shooter, a 12-megapixel variable aperture lens backed by a dual-pixel sensor, is a part of every model. Unlike the S9, the Samsung S10 adds an ultrawide-angle with a 16-MP secondary camera and throws in a 12-MP telephoto lens that allows you to take striking portraits. In the front, the Samsung S10 has 10-MP dual-pixel camera.

The S9 made use of its variable aperture to improve the quality of photos in the low-light settings, but the S10 makes use of its software to take better photos in the dark. In fact, the new phone can even recognize 30 different scenes, making it better than any other Samsung flagship.

Battery
The S9 and S9 Plus were powered by 3,000 and 3,500-mAh batteries and these ensured that the phone functioned for nearly 11 hours. With the S10 series, Samsung aims to make better batteries through enhanced performance. The Samsung S10 has a 3400mAh battery and the battery life surpasses the S9, S9 Plus, and Note 9 with ease.

5G
Samsung S10 has an upper hand over the S9, as the S10 5G models support next-generation 5G networks. Verizon has launched its 5G network and offers deals on the Samsung S10 series. Other carriers will soon follow suit.

Price
The 6.1-inch Samsung Galaxy S10 starts at $899 and is powered by 8GB of RAM and 128GB storage space. If you opt for the 512GB variant of this phone, it will cost about $1149.99. Though Samsung S10 is costlier than its predecessor, it is equipped with amazing features and the latest technology which justifies the price.

Business text messaging is a type of SMS marketing campaign that can help grow a business. A lot of small business owners think business text messaging to be effective only for businesses with a big budget. A survey suggested that text messages have an approximately 20% of click-through rate and are read on an average of five seconds. It is one of the most effective methods to reach out to the customers.
If you own a small business, here are five reasons why you should use business text messaging if you own small business:

Better customer service: Using text messaging services makes it easier follow-up appointments and help determine the quality of service. It also helps to quickly identify problems that might have occurred while implementing the service. Business text messaging helps a business increase its loyalty and earn a high Net Promoter Score (NPS).

More sales and faster responses: Enabling “click-to-message” at all locations makes it easier for business owners to engage with their customers. Business text messaging helps to receive messages from customers almost immediately, leading to better sales and in-store visits.

Grow your business: Quite often a customer who wants to get in touch with you regarding an urgent purchase might not be able to because of busy phone lines. Business text messaging makes onboarding customers easy for a business. A customer service tied down with phone calls can find this arrangement helpful, as customers can get in touch with the business representatives by simply dropping a text.

Handling sensitive conversations: There are businesses that deal with sensitive services, take for instance funeral home and cremation services. It can be difficult for the business to talk to people dealing with a loss of a loved one. Thus, business text messaging can be helpful for handling a sensitive conversation.

Saving time and money: Calling up customers to fix appointments can take up a lot of time of your business. This requires a separate phone service set-up and manpower, resulting in overshooting the budget of your business. Business text messaging saves a considerable amount of time, as it is faster and economical to text message a customer to fix an appointment rather than calling them personally.

Appointment scheduling software is a tool that allows professionals and business organizations to manage bookings and appointments. Organizations can use it to automate multiple scheduling tasks and get reminders for meetings. The right software can help improve organizational efficiency and streamline the process of scheduling and rescheduling appointments, thus improving the customer experience. The tools can provide features like customer and employee management, appointment reminders, calendar integration, mobile compatibility, and payment and revenue processing.

Appointy
Appointy is an easy-to-use platform that helps you book, cancel, and reschedule appointments and meetings. The software sends automated alerts to group members when an appointment gets confirmed or updated. Here are some of its top features:

Appointy allows you to schedule appointments anywhere and at any time
Helps manage class schedules for multiple participants during virtual sessions
Users can share the appointment pages on social media platforms
The tool allows online payments by integrating with payment apps

You can opt for the free or paid Appointy plans. The Growth plan is priced at $29.99/month, Professional at $59.99/month, and Enterprise at $99.99/month. You also get a 14-day free trial.

Simplybook.me
This tool is ideal for service-based industries. The software provides a secure platform to backup data every day. Its top features are: members can accept bookings via multiple channels, customize sites according to your brand’s requirements, and send customized emails and intake forms to clients. You can opt for the Basic plan priced at $9.9 per month, the Standard plan at $29.9 per month, or Premium plan at $59.9 per month. Additionally, you get a 14-day free trial.

Genbook
Genbook is a secure cloud-based appointment scheduling software that promises a smooth business experience. The software also maintains a database of the client’s information. Other top features of the tool are that it provides a calendar for online scheduling, promises an effortless booking experience and client management, 24×7 appointment scheduling, and users get a secured client booking site and integrated payment software. Its paid plans are Solo at $29/month, Team at $59/month, and Company at $99/month.

Calendly
Calendly is a reliable appointment booking software that allows you to set up your bookings and appointments in three simple steps—select availability preferences, share the links with guests, and the booking is added to your calendar. Calendly helps you maintain up-to-date availability status, creates reminders about upcoming meetings, and it can integrate with other applications to enhance business efficiency. You can opt for its Essentials plan for $10/month, Pro plan for $15/month, Teams plan for $20/month, or get a quote for its Enterprise plan. You can get discounted rates when you opt for an annual subscription.

Doodle
Doodle allows direct integration with other applications to make scheduling meetings easier. The software helps generate video and conference links and add them to virtual meetings. Doodle eliminates the confusion of double bookings, updates schedule changes, sends reminders to teams, and offers a secure platform to store client information. You can opt for the Pro plan priced at $6.95/month or the Team plan at $8.95/month.

Using appointment scheduling software is the best way to improve time management. The right tool can automate scheduling tasks, create multiple booking pages, and help you share them on different channels to connect with clients.

Cloud ERP is an enterprise resource planning (ERP) software that is hosted on a cloud platform rather than hosting it on the company premises and using data centers and server farms. ERP is the term given to various activities that help a company manage its different sections and departments like marketing, accounts, and customer relationship management, among others. ERP brings all these functions on a single platform for smoother coordination and performance. Cloud ERP is a Software as a Service (SaaS) solution that lets users across different departments send and receive data using the Internet in real time. Following are some of the benefits of ERP solutions cloud for small business.

Better Security
Today, cloud-based ERP systems are more secure as compared to onsite ERPs because now the clouds are offering stringent security protocols, which make it very difficult to hack or steal data from a cloud-based ERP solution. The debate on which method is more secure is still going on, but the market is seeing more enterprises put their trust in the cloud and this trend is going to see an upward turn in the near future as well.

Increased Productivity
Moving to a cloud-based platform increases the productivity of businesses by allowing easy and real-time collaboration of departments and employees. It eliminates the need for one-to-one communication using traditional methods like emails and external drives. The optimization of communication and collaboration processes means the teams perform better and deliver results that are good for them as well as the company. It also allows the team to save time spent on tedious and repetitive tasks and utilize the same for ideation and innovation.

Cost-effective Solution
Implementing and maintaining an in-house IT department for the maintenance of servers on the premises is a complicated and costly affair. On the other hand, cloud-based storage and computing costs much less and won’t need a company to hire a team to manage the data and the machinery. Going on the cloud completely eliminates the annual maintenance fee that is spent on the on-site systems along with expensive licenses that need to be purchased for software and hardware. Many cloud services charge per month, thereby making the option of the cloud even more cost-effective.

Agility
Cloud ERPs offer a company flexibility, mobility, and accessibility making it agile. This means a business using ERP solutions cloud for small business will be able to innovate and grow quickly as compared to the ones using the traditional on-site ERP.