Tech Tools To Get Started
Here is a list of essential tech tools any startup should invest in before they launch. This is not a complete list but focuses primarily on the most important tech tools that will benefit you more now than later. This list is also in no particular order.
CRM (Customer Relationship Management) Software
There are few startups these days who do not have a CRM system. What one of these will do for you is give you valuable insight into the interactions between your customers and your business. CRM systems build loyalty through relationship development and loyal customers are happy customers.
Contactless Card/Mobile Payments Reader
Although cash is still King in many segments of the business world, the reality is that contactless solutions are quickly replacing cash transactions. To keep pace with this transformation, it is important to be prepared and have contactless payment options available right from Day One.
Free Wi-Fi
Internet access without having to ask for a password is becoming more commonplace in today’s business world. Let’s face it, we are far more connected to the internet now than we were a few years ago. Smartphone technology gets some of the credit for this. Free wi-fi is one way to keep customers in your business.
Mobile-Optimised Website
Speaking of mobile technology, if your website is not mobile-optimized, you are missing out on providing access to a large chunk of your existing and potential customer base. A website that functions properly on all devices makes your business look good and includes all users regardless of the device they use.
Integrated Accounting Software
Today’s tech tools help streamline departments such as accounting. For example, you could integrate the point-of-sale terminals within your startup with cloud-based accounting software which allows data to flow swiftly, without delay, between platforms. This makes the data more accurate and eliminates manual entry. As an added bonus, your Accountant can have direct access to your books!
Inventory Management Software
You could count all your products by hand, as has been the standard practice in past years, but with inventory management software available, why would you? Let the software do the heavy lifting which reduces errors and speeds up data collection. It also gives you a better picture of what inventory you have.
E-Invoicing Tools
Imagine sending an invoice to someone as soon as the job is complete and they haven’t left the parking lot yet. This is possible with e-invoicing tools. They save time, keep you out of the office late at night, and lead to quicker payments. If you rely on quick turnaround time from invoicing to payment, this is your top solution.
Employee Management Software
It is still effective to track employee shifts on a paper calendar, but why would you when you have a tech tool that can do that, handle rescheduling without a fuss, and total hours or assist in shifting staff members around with just a few keystrokes? This type of software is a huge problem solver.
Remote Team Working Tools
If you have employees who work a hybrid schedule which allows them to work from home as part of their employment, or you have contract workers out of the country, this type of tech tool keeps everything together. Manage their work and time easily with a remote team working tech tool.
Business Analytics Tools
Data-driven decisions are smart decisions that can be backed up with data to support them. The best way to gain insight into how your business is functioning and what is or isn’t working in marketing or other aspects of your business is analytic tools which give you the answers. From sales reports to customer counts, this data is valuable.
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Conclusion
Startups have a distinct disadvantage from the day they open their doors. They have to build a customer base and gain a share of business against established competitors. Tech tools help make this easier and also give you an advantage in the operation of your business. Tech tools can gather a lot of data in a short period which saves you time and money and helps streamline the way you run your business. The list above is just a sample of tech tools you should consider.