2012 was an important year for business. We saw the emergence of new social networks that allow companies to connect with customers in innovative ways.  Online businesses united in the face of SOPA legislation, demonstrating the value placed on freedom of communication. And, of course, industry continues to expand in the wake of the global financial crisis. All that said, 2013 is set to be a defining year for companies worldwide.  Your success this year, or lack thereof, will depend on how quickly you can institute profitable strategies right off the bat. To help you out, here are three New Years resolutions you should implement to get the year off to a great start!

1. Diversify Communication Channels

Business presence on Facebook and Twitter has become incredibly commonplace, where businesses can connect with customers more often and more conveniently. However, new social networks such as Pinterest allow for creative discussions and out-of-the box business strategies. Image-based communication is becoming quite popular, so if you can incorporate that into your marketing and customer service efforts, it is worthwhile to do so. In addition, internal social networks such as Yammer give management and employees a direct, casual means of discussion that allows for seamless collaboration.

2. Cut Down On Software Clutter

Bloatware causes inefficient business operations and confusing data manipulation. Whereas in the past, software existed in a vacuum, today software offers integrations that ensure each individual component serves its purpose in a larger network. If you haven’t done so recently, 2013 is the year to explore new software options to ensure that your business has the ability to operate at optimal efficiency for the foreseeable future.

3. Get Complete Visibility Into Projects and Resources

While it does require some time to implement and monitor, organization-wide accountability is a goal that every business should strive to achieve in 2013. Whether you are assigning people to projects or determining the profitability of an individual employee’s activities, a resource management system based on solid time-data will allow you to pursue value with minimal risk. Failure to maintain awareness of all of your operations can result in wasted time or failed projects, an unnecessary risk given the availability of robust time management options.

Follow these resolutions, and your company will be set to take the business world by storm in 2013. The opportunity is there this year, so waste no time in seizing it right away!