This week in tech, there were several important developments that could impact your business. Firstly, ZDNet listed the best free tax preparation software for filing your 2023 taxes, with CashApp Taxes, H&R Block, and IRS-approved TaxAct being among the top choices. While these tools can be helpful, it’s still recommended to have a CPA review your tax documents before filing, especially given the complexity of taxes in recent years.
In another significant update, Microsoft announced that it will unbundle Office and Teams globally, following years-long criticism from competitors like Slack. Starting on April 1, new subscribers to Microsoft 365 will need to sign up for Microsoft Teams separately, with plans starting at $4 per month. This move comes after an antitrust investigation by the EU, which expressed concerns about Microsoft potentially granting Teams a distribution advantage by including it in the 365 suite.
Additionally, Yum! Brands, the parent company of fast-food chains Taco Bell and Pizza Hut, is embracing AI technology to revolutionize their operations. The company is investing in AI-driven software to enhance efficiency and automate various aspects of their service, including employee scheduling and providing answers to restaurant-related queries. This shift towards AI technology is indicative of a broader trend in the industry, with big brands increasingly turning to automation to boost productivity.
Salesforce also made an announcement this week, revealing the beta availability of Einstein Copilot for Tableau. This AI assistant is designed to help users delve deep into their data, making it easier for everyone to become a data expert. The tool leverages natural language processing to facilitate data mining and derive valuable insights, while also incorporating a security feature, Einstein Trust Layer, to protect sensitive information and ensure accuracy in the results.
Lastly, How-To Geek reviewed OfficeSuite as a cost-effective alternative to Microsoft Office, highlighting its cross-compatibility with Microsoft Office and OpenOffice files. While OfficeSuite offers similar apps to Microsoft Office, there are some differences in functionality, such as inserting tables and limited availability of apps on macOS. However, the software includes features like a built-in AI assistant and OfficeSuite Slides for organizing and supporting dated content.
Overall, these tech updates underscore the importance of staying informed about the latest developments in the industry, as they could offer valuable tools and insights to enhance your business operations. From free tax preparation software to AI-driven innovations in the fast-food industry, these advancements showcase the diverse ways in which technology is reshaping the business landscape. Make sure to consider how these updates may impact your business and explore how you can leverage these tools to drive growth and efficiency in your operations.
