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Almost everyone has a computer these days, the percentage of people that don't is that minimal that it's no longer worth speculating. And the same goes for businesses; if you're starting almost any type of business you need a computer.
OK, so you might get by without one but you won't be as organised, efficient or professional as you could be, and as you won't be online, you'll be missing out on engaging any number of contacts and potential customers.
But as with any business purchase, it's important to be clear what a computer can do for your business. After all, there's no point splashing out on a top of the range PC and then watching it gather dust in the corner.
To help demonstrate what using a computer can add to your busines, here's a list of some of the main advantages:
Communication: Virtually every type of business communication is now online. You can pay bills, order stock, file tax returns, network, advertise for staff and, of course, sell your products. What's more you can do all of this when it is convenient for you instead of sqeezing in trips to the bank.
Presentation: Every businesses has to produce literature of some kind or another, whether it be promotional brochures; letters; invoices; posters or staff documents. Producing your own is simple; saves printing costs and gives an air of efficiency.
Organisation: If you're organised, chances are that you're efficient. But despite their numerous pretty colours, post-it notes just won't do. Your accounts, stock level and orders, sales and contact details should be stored on computer so that if you need to know anything about your business, it's only a click away.
Data control: Data has never been so important or valuable. If you collect the details of your customers you can contact them again when you're running a special offer or to let them know about new lines you're releasing. By having the details of a solid customer base stored on computer, you can do much of your marketing yourself.
Security: 'The paperless office' might be a myth, but it's important to ensure all your company documentation and records are stored on file. Not only does it save space, but back-up copies can be invaluable in the unfortunate case of fire, flooding or theft.
Efficiency: Incorporating a computer into your business, in the simpliest terms, should make you more efficient. It should save you time and money that you can reinvest into actually running and growing your business - not administering it.
Here are some of the most common objections to using computers - and the reasons why they don't make sense:
"I like to interact with my customers." Great, don't stop. But consider this, do they like the way and the time that you interact with them? Also, are you missing out on ways of building this relationship?
"I know where things are at the moment." Once again, great. But is it taking up too much room? Can you see your invoices, orders, customer history and bank balance all at the same time without routing through reams of folders? What will happen as your business starts to grow and what if you're unfortunate to suffer a fire, or are burgled?
"I haven't got time." If all your records are filed on computer correctly, everything should be just a click away. A short amount of time spent installing the right system will save you hours in the long run.
"I can't afford it". Time and money are often associated with each other, and quite rightly so. Investment in IT equipment will allow you to spend more time chasing orders, pursing new avenues and growing your business, and will soon be recouped. It could also be cheaper than taking on a member of staff.
"I wouldn't be able to work it" The majority of packages that you're likely to be using are often simple to use and designed for the inexperienced. If you're completely new to computers you should view a training course in basic computing as an investment in your business, in the same sense that a 'how to manage accounts and taxation' course might be.
If you weren't already convinced, it should now be clear that the right computer system can save you time and money. But how do you get the 'right computer'?
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