Technology has revolutionized how we do business, from the way we communicate to the way we manage our operations and finances. As a small business owner, investing in technology can help you streamline your processes, reduce manual labor, and, ultimately, grow your business.
That said, not all tech investments are created equal, and sifting through the plethora of options available on the market is overwhelming. Below, Unbound Northwest explores which technologies are worth it in the long run, including 3D design tools, accounting software, inventory management platforms, and more!
3D Design
Getting 3D design tools is a no-brainer if your team works with any kind of design or prototyping. These tools not only let you visualize and iterate on your designs more easily but can also save you time and money by eliminating the necessity for physical prototypes.
You can test and refine your designs digitally with a 3D design platform (this could help), which means you can catch potential issues early in the process. Adobe Substance 3D Modeler is among the best products on the market!
Communication
Effective communication is crucial to any business, and investing in communication apps can help you stay connected with your team and clients. Whether you need to chat, video conference, or share files, the right apps will make it easy to do so on the go.
Some popular communication apps include Slack, Zoom, and Microsoft Teams. Be sure to consider the specific needs of your business (e.g., security, usability, integrations, etc.) when deciding which apps to buy.
Accounting
Managing your finances can be one of the most time-consuming aspects of running a company. You can automate many of the tasks involved in financial management (e.g., invoicing, bookkeeping, tax reporting, etc.) with accounting software.
Among other benefits, accounting tools will help you gain insights into your financial health, track expenses, and forecast future revenues and expenses. QuickBooks, Xero, and FreshBooks are some options worth researching.
Project Management
Managing projects can be highly complex when you have a team. A platform like Basecamp, Asana, or Notion can help you keep track of tasks, deadlines, and team members in a centralized location. Such platforms also let you collaborate with your team, assign tasks, and monitor progress in real-time.
Cybersecurity
Cybersecurity must be a top priority for your company in the digital age. You must protect your data, your clients’ data, and your reputation, which means investing in the right cybersecurity technologies. Some tools worth researching include:
- Antivirus software
- Firewalls
- VPN
- Intrusion detection
- Email gateway security
- Endpoint protection
Inventory Management
Managing inventory can be a major challenge if you sell physical products. That’s why it’s so important to have an effective inventory management platform in place to track your inventory levels, monitor sales trends, and forecast future demand.
Inventory management software also allows you to reduce the risk of stockouts and overstocks, saving you ample money in the long run. Start by looking into QuickBooks Enterprise, Fishbowl Inventory, and Zoho Inventory.
Summary
Investing in tech tools is no longer a luxury for small business owners — it’s a necessity. Choosing the right tools for your business will allow you to streamline your operations, boost productivity, and take your business to new heights in virtually every area.
There are countless technologies to choose from, but focusing on 3D design, communication, accounting, project management, and cybersecurity will give your company the edge it needs to flourish in your industry. Don’t be afraid to buy the right tech tools. Your business (and your bottom line) will thank you for it. And your team will have everything need to thrive in the digital age!
Would you like to read more helpful content or learn about our leading content marketing services? Visit UnboundNorthwest.com today!
Troy is a Freelance writer, editor, and author who lives, works, and plays in Boise, Idaho where he hikes, cycles, skis, and basically enjoys the outdoor lifestyle of the Northwest. Troy writes about business, sports, GIS, Education, and more. He is most passionate about writing suspense thrillers, and his work can be found at https://www.amazon.com/Troy-Lambert/e/B005LL1QEC/
