Virtual data rooms (VDRs) are becoming more popular with businesses of all types. These online spaces help groups store, organize and share proprietary information. VDRs like Firmex help companies save time, money and stress. Advances in technology allow businesses to digitize information to cut down on human error and make project management more efficient. This helps a company transition to a paperless office and enhance operations. The following are the many features of VDRs.

The Basics of a Data Room

Companies use virtual data rooms to store important documents: everything from financial and legal items to tax documents and client information. Businesses do not have to rely on filing cabinets and physical paper to access important information. VDRs are the ultimate back-up system for paperwork. Data is important for any organization. Having key information in one place makes it easier to handle financial transactions, big deals and other projects. Confidential information like trade secrets can be stored here alongside payroll information. All information stored in VDRs is secure from the outside. Businesses can also restrict who can see which content when.

Saving Time with VDRs

A filing cabinet or physical data room has its limitations for staff. After all, people have to physically go look for key documents. It takes people a long time to physically sift through content, which slows down a deal or project. Over time, paperwork could be lost or damaged. Transitioning documents to a VDR means that staff can work anywhere in the world and have access to important information. Content is protected and it is nearly impossible to lose or misfile a document online. VDRs improve a company’s efficiency and performance.

Share Content Securely

One of the chief benefits of VDR is the ability to control who has access to key information. Businesses can have a single log-in, can monitor who has accessed documents and can quickly share or restrict information. Having this level of control ensures confidential information is protected and that staff also have what they need to complete projects.

Mergers & Acquisitions (M&A)

Whenever a business is merging or acquiring another business, it is important to be organized. Companies have to review pages upon pages of financial information, and may have to provide their own information too. When handling proprietary or sensitive information, businesses want to be sure this data is protected. VDRs give both groups a safe place to share key documentation. After all, businesses can control when access is given to key content, and they can stop this access if the deal falls through or a deadline has passed. VDRs help move a deal along and ensure both parties do their due diligence.

Going Public or Launching an IPO

Going public is a big decision for a company. This means having to follow all of state and federal governments guidelines. Increasing transparency of key financial information is easier with VDRs. A business can track and control when shareholders and government officials can see information. Having all important documentation in one place makes launching an IPO easier. Content can be found and shared quickly and without worry.

Fundraising Benefits

Small and large companies can benefit from fundraising to build the business. Capital makes it possible to expand offerings either online and locally or internationally. VDRs make it easier to woo would-be investors. After all, people want to see that a company is organized, thriving and transparent about their practices. Being able to quickly share information to investors means they are more likely to make the decision to invest in a business.

Handle an Audit

An audit is not fun, even if a business is already thriving, transparent and following tax laws. An audit means that all company records are up for review by lawyers, accountants and auditors. Going through files upon files of paperwork can be tedious and items may be hard to find, which can be stressful. Thanks for VDRs, a business can quickly access information. If an auditor wants something, the leadership team can quickly access and share it with them.

Build Partnerships and Work with Vendors

Partnering with other businesses and making transactions with vendors is easier with VDRs. Invoices and other important documentation is easier to access and share. This speeds up a lot of business practices. If a company is building a relationship, other groups are more likely to work with them if content is easy to access. This builds a positive reputation for the business, making it seem honest, organized and functioning at a high level.

Communicating with the Board

A company’s leadership or Board of Trustees wants to be sure that things are running smoothly. Even if the board members live far away, important information about quarterly earnings and more can be securely shared. This ensures a Board can make smart decisions and have trust in the company’s leadership team.