It's easy to get overwhelmed when shopping for business gadgets. When everything's marked as a must-have productivity booster, how are you supposed to know what to buy? Look no further--here's a list of the five pieces of technology every small business should have:
1. A mobile computing device: Smartphones, laptops and tablet PCs are all great tools for the busy small-business owner on the go. With one of these tools, you can stay tapped into the office even if you're not there. Look for a Smartphone--a cell phone with built-in computer functions, including e-mail, Web surfing, scheduling and contact management--if you're looking to stay connected while out of the office without the added weight and bulk of a laptop. If you spend a lot of time away from the office--and you do more than just e-mail--a good laptop is an essential business tool. Tablet PCs are generally more expensive than laptops computers, but can offer greater mobility and functionality, letting you “write” on the screen with a stylus.
2. External hard drive: Backing up your data is one of the most important tasks you can do regularly to safeguard your business. And thanks to the advancements to external hard drives, backing up no longer has to take up a lot of space on your desktop or a lot of your time. The newest ones can store in excess of two terabytes--the equivalent of 2,000 gigabytes.
3. USB flash drive: Forget CDs, the best way to carry your files with you is on a USB flash drive. Available in many shapes and sizes--Imation even makes a USB flash drive wristband--these storage devices can make transporting files a cinch. Just plug it in, add your files, and you can access them on any other computer with a USB port. Storage capacities run from 128 MB to more than 4GB, and prices range from $10 to $100, depending on the size and the security features.
4. Digital camera: Even if your business doesn't sell products, a digital camera can serve many uses. You can use it to jazz up your Web site, a brochure or even a presentation with pictures of your office and employees. Also boost morale by taking photos at company events and posting them to a photo-sharing Web site. On a more serious note, a digital camera is a great tool to have on hand if you have to document property loss after a flood or fire. A decent digital camera--which has at least five megapixels--should cost around $200. For a few more features and megapixels, you shouldn't have to pay more than $400.
5. Webcam: Would you rather not make yet another trip to meet with your client who lives across the country? Don't despair. With a Webcam, you can have a face-to-face meeting without leaving the office. Like with most things, Webcam technology has advanced significantly in recent years, and a sophisticated set-up can run as low as $100. A Webcam can also be useful to reconnect with your remote employees.
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Make Your Contacts Count: Networking Know-how for Business And Career Success
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