As industries adapt to new regulations, many businesses are modifying their operations. With a significant number of companies initially forced to suspend trading, finding new routes to respective marketplaces has been a top priority.

By redesigning your own business, you can adapt your infrastructure and utilise approved processes within the workplace. This change will ensure you’re able to reinstate or continue trading, which could ensure your organisation is able to overcome the economic uncertainty we’re facing.

To find out how innovative restructuring and diversification could save your business, take at these top tips for designing your business during COVID-19…

1. Increase automation

Increasing in-house automation is an effective way of streamlining your processes and improving productivity. As strict regulations are imposed in response to the coronavirus pandemic, better automation offers even more advantageous.

When you place increasing reliance on machinery, equipment and technology, your business can function with fewer human resources, or staff. Social distancing is one of the main factors in combating the spread of COVID-19, which means crowded workplaces or close physically proximity to colleagues must be avoided.

With a focus on increased automation, you can reduce your staff, minimize your costs and provide a safe working environment for critical workers. As a result, you can meet the requirements to continue operating and retain vital cash flow and revenue streams.

2. Introduce new routes to the market

For some companies, the impact of COVID-19 has decimated their marketplace and brought their sector to a standstill. Entertainment venues and businesses within the hospitality industry highlight the devastating effects the outbreak is having on some industries. While the current restrictions may prevent you from operating as you normally would, diversifying and finding new routes to the market could help your business thrive, rather than just survive.

The food and beverage industry is an excellent example of how diversification can triumph amidst COVID-19. Although restaurants have been unable to open for weeks, many establishments introduced takeaway and delivery services as an alternative way to serve their customers. Using bespoke takeaway menus to publicise their new service, businesses were able to increase awareness of their availability quickly and efficiently. What’s more, the switch to takeaway and deliveries also tapped into a clear need amongst consumers.

At a time when supermarkets were struggling to keep stock on the shelves, many families were unable to purchase essential supplies. With access to takeaway and delivery options from nearby eateries, however, they could purchase meals, drinks and even non-perishable products, as and when they were needed.

If other sectors are able to diversify their products and services as effectively, there is a potential for an increasing number of businesses to overcome the economic impact of COVID-19. In addition to maintaining cash flow and generating revenue, it’s clear that the operational changes provided a vital service to consumers and communities in a time of need.

3. Create new customer personas

Companies that embrace detailed branding and marketing often use customer personas to represent their target audience. In most cases, brands have a core number of customer personas that represent their existing customer base and the demographic they’re targeting.

When you can add new customer personas to your customer base, you’re entering new markets and reaching a much wider audience. Often, this means finding a dual purpose for your products and services or redesigning how you market their benefits. If you’re a B2C retailer, for example, now might be the right time to explore how B2B clients could benefit from your products.

As the public become accustomed to a new way of living, typical buying behaviour is changing. In many instances, increased demand for products or disruptions to existing supply chains means consumers are more willing to experiment with alternative brands, products and businesses.

If you’re able to expand your target demographic at this time, you’ll find it easier than ever to gain interest from your new audience. Firms which can satisfy a need that’s being neglected or businesses that can contribute to critical infrastructure will find there is a significant economic benefit to expanding their range of customer personas. However, any organisation that’s able to launch in new markets or appeal to a wider audience can reap the rewards.

Preparing for the Future

As companies attempt to prepare for what a post-coronavirus business landscape will look like, there are many changes to overcome. Perhaps most important is the need to maintain engagement with your customer base and keep them updates about the changes you’re implementing. With clear marketing messages, transparency and flexibility, brands can navigate these unchartered waters, acquire new customers and retain the loyalty of their core demographic.