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In today’s technology-driven world, every business needs the right tech in order to succeed. However, that’s easier said than done when you’re running a small business on a budget. Luckily, the cost doesn’t have to stop you from reaching your business goals. Instead of opting for the fanciest tech with all the bells and whistles, you can usually get by with more cost-effective solutions. From the latest smartphones to streamlined marketing and communications, here are some business technologies that are worth the cost.
Connection
In order to take advantage of the latest business apps, you’ll need an updated smartphone. If you’ve been using the same phone for years, it may be time to upgrade to a more recent model. The latest smartphones have longer battery life, so you won’t have to recharge as frequently, along with several enhanced features that keep your business connected.
For instance, the new iPhone 11 is perfect for teleconferencing with its large display and professional triple-camera. On the other hand, if you’re an Android fan, TechRadar recommends the Samsung Galaxy Note 9 thanks to compelling features such as improved battery life and an easy-to-use stylus pen for jotting notes.
Communication
As your business takes advantage of modern technology and scales up its communication, you might find yourself working remotely with colleagues or clients around the world. A growing number of companies are embracing the remote workspace, but not at the cost of communication. To keep conversations flowing and streamline office messages, regardless of where you’re located, consider the following tools:
- Toggl is so much more than a time-tracking app. In addition to weekly timesheets, the affordable app has some powerful analytics tools that assist with project management, client invoices, and even payroll.
- Slack improves communication, especially for virtual teams. There are free and low-cost paid plans to help your business transition from email and Google Chat to company-wide chatrooms as your primary source of communication. Plus, Slack integrates with apps your business is already using, like Toggl, Google Drive, and Zapier.
- If you have a team of in-house web developers, run a digital agency, or use scrum for project management, then Geekbot is for you. To boost efficiency, your team can run virtual meetings via Geekbot’s Slack plugin. Meanwhile, your developers can plug into the API to automate daily tasks.
Productivity
Need to boost your team’s productivity? There’s an app for that! For instance, you might boost team collaboration with Google Drive, which allows multiple people to contribute to the same documents in real-time from anywhere in the world.
Another powerful tool for collaboration and productivity is Monday.com, which is an all-in-one project management, collaboration, and time-tracking service. According to their website, Monday.com boosts efficiency and productivity by “visually mapping out” projects, then helping your team manage, execute, and deliver those projects on time.
Inbox Zero
If the amount of email you get each day feels overwhelming, it might be time to develop a plan to organize your inbox. Some of the previously mentioned apps like Slack can help you reach the elusive inbox zero. However, there are plenty of other options, too.
For example, you might try CloudMagic, a free email app that’s received rave reviews from the Wall Street Journal, among others. According to OtherInbox, CloudMagic works with any email provider, from Gmail to Hotmail, and it’s a fast, powerful tool that even works in offline mode. You can rapidly remove emails from your inbox or organize them with folders and labels.
Even if your budget is stretched thin, many of these apps and technologies pay for themselves. As your business grows, the right tech will help you scale and will contribute to your bottom line. As a small business owner, you can’t afford not to invest in basics like a newer model smartphone or updated email marketing software. By doing some research and choosing the right tech, you’ll find that your efforts will pay off in the end.
