So what are the most important software programs for small business? God knows there are thousands of different types for every conceivable application. Which ones can you live without? Which ones are a necessity? It can be confusing. And if you end up with the wrong ones, it can even make things more complicated, instead of making your business more efficient. The bottom line is that you need software programs that will improve your bottom line and free up your time.
The Office Suite – Microsoft: Let’s face it, if you don’t have Word and Excel, you might as well close up shop. The other programs in the Office Suite are essential to have as well (Outlook, Access, Powerpoint and Publisher). This software, which many people worldwide have on their PC’s, is totally integrated, easy to use and updated constantly. Used the right way, it will save your small business lots of time and lots of money. On the other side of things, it will also help you make money, which is a major reason you’re in business anyways.
Anti-Virus Software – McAfee: If you have a PC, anti-virus software is an absolute necessity. (Apple computers are much less susceptible.) Over the last few years, computer viruses have become rampant. The problem is, when one computer is infected, it’s extremely easy to spread it to others. If you’re like the majority of people out there, you’re online day and night. Because of this, your computer is linked together with others. As much as it is a benefit, it’s also a big problem. So what are the things you want to look for with this type of software? Make sure it offers a range of filtering and protection options. Also, it needs to be easy to update the program's files, so you are covered against the latest virus.
Accounting Software – Quicken: What’s that? You don’t know how much money you made last year and from which accounts? Not a problem. Accounting software is what you need! In fact, if you want to plan, manage, control and generally chart the destiny of your company, you got to have it. It keeps you organized and helps you understand where the money is going, how it’s coming in and how it’s going out. Financial report production features can be found on the best of this software. And if you want to spring for the most expensive accounting software, you’ll also get business payroll, and tax collection and reporting features.
Contact Management: If you’re in the sales business, or have the sales function as a core competency in your small business, you have to have a contact management software product. Sales are a cumbersome task. Keeping track of prospects can be even more difficult. What did they say when you talked to them last? What were their comments? What’s the plan for follow up? These are all critical questions if you want to close a high rate of prospects. The best contact management software is integrated with Outlook and other e-mail programs.
Help Desk Software: Your help desk is key to customer satisfaction, reputation, revenue and product or service lifespan. In fact, for many businesses, long-term success hinges on help desk proficiency. Without the right software, your help desk can be a liability. There are sevices available that offer a wide range of help desk software solutions. Whether you provide internal support, web-based customer support or IT Service Management, you can a help desk program to suit.
Making the right software work for your small business can reap great returns by saving time and money. On the other side of the coin, purchase software that you are sure you have a need for. To do so, figure out exactly which functions you need performed, and then choose the correct software accordingly.