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How to Afford Small Business Technology on a Budget

Brian Neese

September 25, 2013

Your budget might not allow for the gadgets that you'd like to incorporate. 

From the basics and cloud storage to the high-priced luxuries, there are dozens of technological solutions that could result in heavy bills.

A balanced approach will help you keep costs into perspective and make sure you do what's best for your business. 

Follow along as some important steps are outlined…

What's Important to Your Business?

Always start with the basics.  

In terms of small business technology, there might be some must-haves that you can identify right away.

An obvious choice is probably some type of financial software. 

Accounting and other business finances are seen regardless of the industry, and it's best to make sure that you can handle those needs easily. It makes life simple!

You can then start identifying what other products should be considered:

• Appointment booking and scheduling

• CRM

• Point-of-sale systems

• Acquisition marketing

Once you identity your needs, you'll be able to make the tough decisions on what products can fit into your business plan.  You might have to make some tough choices, but soul-searching is priority number one.

Identify those important categories to make it clear exactly what your small business needs in technology.

2 Tips to Make Room in Your Budget

While there is no magic formula to working in all of your technological needs on a small business budget, some strategies can help you toward that direction. 

Try these tips to see if they can help you stay within that budget for the tools you need to run your business:

1. Make Technology a Cost of Business: You might not think twice about the space you rent, if applicable, for your business.  Should important technology be any different?  Perhaps you can skimp in other areas, or see technology in a different light.  Either way, position technology as an important factor in your business, which might help you handle the stress of so many "additional" needs.

1. Become a Comparison Wizard: If you need a scheduling solution, why not become an expert at all that's available?  Look at reviews, boards of other small business owners, and more to get an idea of what's out there, what's right for your business, and how it's received.  And then, make sure you find the best price! Don't stop researching and comparing to help you make the right choice.

These two important steps will give you the perspective to know how to proceed. 

From the important tools you need to make a priority, to the industries where you can find a great deal or two, you can budget and save on technology for your business.

Overall, don't hesitate to find technology that's right for your business. 

Determine what you need to maintain and grow your business, and don't be afraid to do the legwork that will help you save time and money - both now and in the future!

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