Technology and your new business

SUNIL RANDIVE tells you how to get your IT needs in place for a business venture.

If you’re thinking about starting a business, technology might be the very last consideration on your mind.  With a long list of tasks ahead (like getting a logo and stationery designed, finding an office, and working out your marketing plan), you may just requisition your home computer to start running your new business.  In this article, we look at some of your very first technology decisions.

New computer or home PC? For a while, a home computer may be adequate to handle the necessities of your business.  However, if your computer time is conflicting with the children’s need to surf the internet for their homework, it may be time to consider a dedicated business computer.  It is also worthwhile to consider keeping children away from your business computer. Study any system specifications carefully and check the manufacturer’s websites.  Many ‘cheap’ retail deals are superseded models, cannot be upgraded easily or may not connect to a bigger computer network, which will all be important as your business grows.  Also, talk to your accountant about any tax benefits for which you may be eligible.

Voice over IP When considering a phone number for your business, take a look at your Voice Over IP (VOIP) options.  The quality of this technology has improved significantly and it can provide great local, national and international phone rates.  Today’s systems can plug into a standard cordless phone and your internet connection, so your computer doesn’t have to be turned on for you to make and receive calls.  It makes a fantastic ‘second line’ for businesses that run from your home.  You can have your office phone answered outside of business hours, and still receive personal calls on the standard home phone line. 

Internet connection An internet connection will be the most critical link for your business. Several providers offer various plans and packages. A broadband bundle plan can be a good option if it suits your needs. Check that the plan you choose offers enough monthly data allowance. Monitor internet usage month to month, and update your plan or change the ISP if required

Internet domain name Once you have decided on a business name, look at registering your internet domain name.  This will prevent someone else from registering it.  Having your own domain name (like yourdomain.com) will give your emails a more professional look, and enable you establish a simple webpage. You don’t have to spend a fortune on a comprehensive website before the first day of actually doing business.  As long as your contact details (phone number, email address, fax number, and location) are easy to find and you have some great information about why your business is different from competitors, you will give search engines something to find.  This is much better than an ‘under construction’ visual or no internet presence at all.  Use your domain name in your email address to offer more credibility; rather than operating from a free email account (like myname@gmail.com).  You can still use your internet provider for your email service; however using a domain name in your email address will give you flexibility to change your ISP if required.  Make certain to check what protection they have in place against email viruses and spam. It is recommended to subscribe to a good Anti Spam service.  Remember to include your website and email address on all stationery and marketing materials.    

Data Backup Your business data is vital. Protect it appropriately. Ensure a backup strategy is implemented and automated, or regularly carried out. Install and regularly update Anti Virus software. Consider an IT professional to look after your business computer. This ensures little or no worry about that part of your business operations, giving you much-needed time to focus on building your business.