Hard work and determination aren’t the only things that can help your small business thrive. These five must-have technologies can help any small business - no matter the size - grow, be organized, and remain secure:
1. Accounting Software - There are very few small business owners that have the aptitude or patience to keep meticulous handwritten financial records. Even keeping an up-to-date Excel spreadsheet can be difficult (in more ways than one) for many. Accounting software can handle basic bookkeeping duties, which is typically all most small businesses need anyways. There are programs designed specifically for small businesses that are extremely affordable (some, such as Mint, are even free) and make the tedious task more manageable and organized.
2. Anti-virus Software - To protect the integrity and security of your computer network, antivirus and anti-spy virus is a must. There are a wide range of programs - both web-based and downloadable external software - that can effectively protect your system from viruses and spyware without a hefty price tag. Look for programs that also block pop-ups when browsing online.
3. A CRM Program - CRM (or customer relationship management) software allows businesses to record and manage all their contacts (including customers) and correspondence with those contacts. Not only does this boost organization, it can also actually help optimize your relationships with customers. In addition, some programs allow you to also assign tasks or projects and track logged activities of employees.
4. Handheld Devices - Or more commonly known as the smartphone. These days, smartphones allow you to do far more than just make a phone call. Popular smartphones such as the iPhone and Blackberrys allow users to browse the Internet, send and receive email, take pictures and videos, and much more. Such a device allows small business to conduct business and keep tabs on what’s going on at the office no matter where they are.
5. Internet Storage - No matter what type of industry or size of the company, data backup is crucial for all companies. But perhaps more so for small businesses, many of which, in the event of data loss, would be utterly destroyed. Since most small businesses do not have the space or the time to perform manual backups, internet storage provides an inexpensive, convenient, and secure backup method to protect all your business-critical data.
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