Small Business Software
From LoveToKnow Business
There are many forms of small business software designed to make operations run more smoothly, enhance methods and perhaps even make the life of the small business owner a little easier. Here’s a synopsis of some of the tools available.
Free Small Business Software
There are many options for free software or nominal fee shareware that can really save administrative costs. To test drive certain types of software is a good way to see if you and your company truly benefit from the application or if it’s just taking up space on the hard drive. If you like it, you can always upgrade, but if not, you’re not out too much.
- Free spyware removal tools help prevent an invasion of your computer. Spyware, as its name implies, is stealth program and often your PC can become infected before you realize it. Spyware is generally used to harvest information about your Internet browsing and computer usage habits. It is an invasion of privacy under the best of circumstances and can lead to identity theft.
- 2 Do is a helpful project to-do list that allows a Web view of a project status and integration between people working on the same project.
- Absolute Punch Timeclock System replaces paper timecards. Employees record their time online and the system has a reminder field that can be updated daily.
- Interchange is one of many free e-commerce applications available. For businesses starting a basic online store, this software may prove to be very beneficial. However, depending on your technical skill level, you may still need the assistance of a Web developer to get your e-commerce site running.
- The Invoice Store is a program that aids with invoicing and customer tracking.
- My Signup Sheet may be helpful to independent consultants and other business owners when arranging an event requiring a list of attendees. Visitors can register online through this program.
There’s always a need to exercise caution when downloading from an unfamiliar site, so make sure to research the product as best you can before adding it.
Other Small Business Software Options
Standing in the software aisle of your local office supply store can be daunting. Sure, there are many choices, but which applications will really add to the efficiency of your operation? Here are a few comprehensive selections that handle a wide range of duties.
- w/Ease Small Business Software facilitates a variety of administrative tasks, from invoicing and time tracking to accounting and tax preparation. There is a free operational demo available.
- Filemaker is considered by many companies to be the top database program. You can customize it to handle a variety of database, project and vendor management requirements very specific to your business, as well as send e-mail newsletters and upload your online store catalog.
- Business-in-a-Box is the perfect solution for those with paperwork issues. From contracts to business letters, policy templates to spreadsheets, this small business software gives business owners a variety of business documents at their fingertips.
- Sage Accpac combines accounting, payroll, inventory management, human resources and other internal functions into one program. Assures that it can be customized to your business needs.
- AY Mail2 makes e-mail communication run more smoothly. Coordinate mail merges and subscription forms, text import, newsletters and more.
- Marketing Plan Pro is a resource that can be used again and again. Features include easy integration with other software programs, marketing analysis tools and step-by-step plan development.
Conclusion
Most of the products mentioned in this article are PC and Mac compatible but double-check system requirements. If you’d like to stay up-to-date on new software releases, check out Free Software Magazine to stay on top of new free software releases, iCreate Magazine for Apple products and, for the more tech savvy, ZD Net.
Not only do these sites provide information on small business software but also reviews, companion product suggestions and helpful links to other business topics to help expand the possibilities of your company.
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