Put the right technology in place
Starting up a new business venture – on your own or with others – is both exciting and just a little daunting. You want to get going, start getting customers and sorting out everything you need, from a business bank account to the right technology. While some of the things you need to run a business are second nature, technology may not be it. So, here’s a quick guide to the technology that can make running your business just that little bit easier.
Getting started with the right PC
A PC is probably already at the centre of your business – or is part of your immediate plans – helping you do your books, communicate with your customers or create and store important documents.
But with the latest operating system, Windows 7 Professional, not only can you do all these things faster and more securely, there are also many other improvements. These include safer and speedier browsing with Internet Explorer 9, built-in document and email search so you can find the information you need more quickly and easily, as well as time-saving functions like Snap, Peek and multi-tasking.
Always connected wherever you are
You can’t always be at your desk, but that shouldn’t mean your business has to stand still.
And there’ll be days when you or your staff have to work from home, have downtime while travelling or need to work at a client’s office where access to files or the Internet may be limited. With the right mobile technology, this time can be just as productive as when you’re at the office. Windows Phone 7 lets you use the same software you have in the office, access email, diary and contacts so you don’t miss anything important and get on the Internet quickly (additional charges may apply). So you can be in the office even when you’re not.
Be professional with the right tools
Any business needs to make sure they look professional, whether it’s with marketing materials, email newsletters or invoices.
The best way to achieve this is with a set of programs that are simple and can be used without having specialist skills. With Microsoft Office 2010 Professional, you get all the tools you need for creating professional documents, presentations and financial charts thanks to Word, PowerPoint and Excel. This latest version features many shortcuts that over the course of a day can help save valuable time to help keep you in contact with customers, suppliers and staff. The calendar, email, task and contact features in Outlook are second-to-none.
Microsoft. Business tools for a job well done.
Need some advice?
If you're unsure about what technology solution would best meet your business requirements you can get expert advice from Microsoft Small Business Specialist Partners. These IT experts are often small businesses themselves, and they are familiar with many of the challenges small businesses face today. To find a small business specialist near you, or to search for products and services, visit our Microsoft Partner Network page and enter your postcode into our Pinpoint tool.
