Raising the Bar: 8 Essential IT Solutions for Small Businesses
The business world as we know it today is governed by technology. In fact, many businesses would not be able to operate successfully without the internet and certain integrative technologies that their businesses rely on.
While some technologies are designed to increase productivity, others are used for customer interaction. However, the one underlying premise behind all business technology seems to be this: simplicity.
To learn more about the top Seattle-managed IT services for small businesses and how they can simplify your everyday tasks, read this blog for more.
IT Solutions For Small Businesses and Your Everyday Tasks
Aside from simplifying your everyday business tasks, technology is also a brilliant tool for business growth. This is especially important for small businesses that are now able to stand up to larger corporations and grab their share of the market.
Enlisting the expertise of a managed service provider can also do wonders for your data storage, backup, and IT management in emergencies. So, if you’re a new business owner and wondering what type of tech to invest in, here the essentials you should consider:
1. Online Business Training
The continuing education of your employees is paramount to your business growth. It’s also a great way to ensure your employees feel valued, fostering a loyal and happy team. This is where the world of online business training technology comes in handy.
Traveling the country to different training and education events is not always realistic. Especially for businesses that are starting out. Self-paced training, free online courses, and seminars are a good alternative.
Today, there is a myriad of online business training resources that cover almost any topic under the sun. Simply set aside some time for your employees to embrace this convenient form of training.
2. Teleconferencing
Being able to communicate with your clients, other business shareholders, and employees is crucial for any business. Today, this can be done virtually, thanks to the internet and the many integrative conferencing technologies on the market. This is especially useful if clients and shareholders are in different locations.
The best part is that there are a number of services that are completely free to use. This allows small businesses to conduct calls with multiple people, at any time, without specialized equipment. Some of the most popular (and free) teleconferencing tools used today are Skype and Zoom.com.
3. Open-Source Software
If your business cannot afford to use mainstream commercial applications, this is where open-source software is useful. This type of software is beneficial because it does not require financial investment, it’s flexible and can fit with your needs as a business owner.
There are a number of different types of open-source programs, one of the most popular being OpenOffice.org. This type of software allows businesses to manage all of their day-to-day tasks in one place.
4. Online Payroll and Bookkeeping Services
Bookkeeping is one of the most important elements of business success. You have to ensure your business finances are well-managed and your employees are paid on time.
Nowadays, there are a number of online programs to assist with these important tasks. While bookkeeping applications vary, they all have the same end goal. They allow you to process all of your billing, payroll, and accounting needs faster and more efficiently.
The bonus is that many of these online programs do not come with the hefty price tag of a private accountant! Some of these sites include QuickBooks, Gusto, ADP, SurePayroll, and more.
5. Business Landline Alternatives
In today’s day and age, there’s no such thing as missing a call when you’re not at your desk. With the advent of VoIP technology, handset telephones, and virtual lines, you can answer a call from any spot in your office.
To add to this, many of today’s unified communication systems allow businesses to communicate by phone, video, and text. You can also integrate your phone system with other cloud-based business applications.
6. Appointment Scheduling
Online appointment scheduling allows businesses to organize and manage their schedule in one place. Whether it’s an appointment with a client, a new product demo, or a personal errand, you can stay on top of your day-to-day tasks, and the tasks of your employees.
This type of software also allows other team members to view the calendar, select their own time slots for meetings, and more. With full access to the calendar, team members can easily plan out their day and manage their tasks accordingly.
7. Remote Desktop Applications
Remote desktop access is extremely useful if you cannot physically be in your office to access your primary computer. This type of technology allows you to access your data, from anywhere, at any time.
You can then change and correct this data from a laptop, iPad, or even a smartphone. Remote desktop access gives business owners a major edge over managing their business from just about anywhere. Some popular applications include LogMeIn and GoToMyPC.
8. Inventory Management and Analytical Tools
If you operate a business that sells merchandise, such as an online store, then this technology is for you. Keeping close tabs on your business inventory is crucial to managing cash flow issues. While an inventory management system may not seem necessary from the get-go, it can really save you time and money in the long run.
Essentially, you are able to track your products as they come in and go out for orders. You can also gain insight into the best performing products and the worst. This way, you have information on products that need revising or tweaking, to better suit your market.
Some of today’s top applications include the likes of TradeGecko and Cin7.
Successfully Manage Your Small Business with Us
These IT solutions for small businesses are designed to simplify everyday business tasks so you can focus on the important stuff, such as business growth.
If you’re looking to gain insight into the world of small business, don’t miss out on the rest of this site for more. We offer blogs, tools, training, and programs to help your business grow from one success to the next.
