The environmental, health, and safety (EHS) sector is always rapidly evolving to meet the changing regulatory demands, mitigate new workplace risks, and maximize compliance. What was standard procedure last month could become obsolete if you’re not paying close attention and keeping up.
If you want to stay competitive as an organization, it’s on you to stay plugged into the latest trends so you can implement them in a timely manner and keep your workers safe.
One of the most obvious trends we’re seeing in 2020 is the rise of EHS software to reduce risk and remain compliant with less effort. But as companies make the decision to invest in the right software, what are they taking into consideration?
Let’s review EHS trends that could impact your business and delve deeper into what organizations like yours are considering when investing in EHS technology, specifically.
Trends
As the EHS market expands, industry experts have noted a few common shifts among players.
Cloud-based technologies
Arguably the strongest trend we’re seeing right now is the increase in cloud-based technologies in the EHS space. According to Flexera’s State of the Cloud report, organizations are over budget for cloud spend by an average of 23 percent and they only expect that number to go up.
These technologies can close your unique efficiency gaps by giving you exactly what solutions you need, when you need them. Rather than relying on a clunky and expensive on-premise solution, cloud-based EHS software allows teams to stay agile and adapt to the changing times as needed.
Cloud-based storage also makes important software more accessible – and in the time of COVID-19, remote software is more critical than ever.
Increased investment in EHS software for companies of all sizes
Small businesses all the way to enterprise-level businesses are making the decision to invest in EHS software. This trend further illustrates the market-shifting benefits of cloud-based solutions.
Thanks to these new solutions, both costs and implementation barriers are greatly reduced. Because they require less IT support, can get set up quickly, and don’t require a high up-front investment, it’s easier than ever for small-to-medium businesses to join larger enterprises aboard the EHS software train.
EHS software investments have risen steadily over the past decade. Adding cloud software to the mix will help it continue to grow as companies prioritize technology, especially in high-risk industries.
Independent research firm Verdantix estimates that the global market for EHS software will expand from $1.2B in 2019 all the way to $2B in 2024, citing EHS software as a main cause of growth.
Transition to mobile
As desktop internet usage falls and mobile usage continues to rise, we’re seeing this change impact more than just our off-duty use. Now, it’s starting to reshape the way we use technology in the workplace. This transition came about in good timing, as many companies are dealing with a distributed workforce due to COVID-19 precautions. These businesses now must come up with mobile solutions that can meet their employees where they’re at – wherever that may be.
Considerations
The common thread that ties all of these trends together is EHS software. Now more than ever, companies of all sizes are realizing the value of investing in cloud-based and mobile EHS software. Not only does high-quality software improve your bottom line, but it also positively impacts your business’ overall efficiency, safety, and productivity.
When making the decision to invest in EHS software for your business, here’s what to keep in mind:
- Investment Value – EHS software reduces misclassification errors, which saves money on shipping and avoids compliance fees or fines in your supply chain that can get expensive quickly. This can majorly improve your bottom line.
- Positive Business Impact – The right EHS software can integrate with your other systems to create streamlined processes. Additionally, intuitive software workflows and user-friendliness boost your workers’ efficiency.
- Adaptability – Ideally, you’ll find an EHS software program that can keep up with changing demands and workplace habits. While not every software will fit your existing program exactly, it’s helpful to find one that offers the flexibility to change with you. When you can configure your own workflows and forms, your company will be able to improve user efficiency, increase user adoption, and preserve existing internal processes.
- Functionality – How helpful is the software? Before you make your final decision, consider what functionalities you require from it and how well it can realistically meet those needs.
Your SDS Compliance Management Partner
In the EHS industry, it’s your responsibility to keep people safe, ensure environmental standards are met, and run a successful business. An important part of that last item is keeping up with the latest industry developments and responding appropriately to remain competitive in the market.
As the latest data has made it clear, EHS software is on the up and up with no sign of stopping.
If you are interested in investing in EHS software to improve the efficiency, compliance, and safety of your workplace, TotalSDS authoring, and management software or GSM’s custom solutions could be right for you.
TotalSDS’ cloud-based software makes creating, distributing and managing compliant safety data sheets quick and easy. Contact us today to learn more about how TotalSDS and GSM’s custom solutions can make things easier, safer, and more lucrative for your company.
