Technology is a vital part of operating a successful business. But knowing the true cost of technology for your business, deciding what hardware and software you really need, and understanding the mind-numbing terminology that surrounds tech isn't easy. We can help. This issue's guides cover all that, and more.

Plus, we've launched a new Q&A feature that tackles a top-of-mind small business problem each week with an in-depth answer. And be sure to visit our What Works for Business blog regularly at www.whatworksforbusiness.com for the latest news on small business solutions.




Beat Recession with Brains, not Brawn

Q. Dear Dan: We’re starting to run out of ideas of how to cut our business costs or ways to find new customers. What ways are other businesses thinking up to try and beat this recession? – Still Thinking

A. Dear Still Thinking: You've bludgeoned costs to the bone for over a year now. You've amped up efficiency, squeezed vendors for every dime, and improved collections. Your marketing is fever pitch and you're seeking sales in areas you never though to look before. What's left to do? How about this:




Technology Costs
Calculating Tech's Total Cost of Ownership
By Beth Stackpole
Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) is a commonly used calculation designed to help businesses assess the direct and indirect costs associated with information technology purchases. By doing a TCO analysis, you can make more informed purchase decisions. When evaluating the TCO of hardware, software, or networking equipment, be sure to consider these items: Read Full Guide

Essential Software
Essential Computer Software for Business
By Judy Artunian
It's easy to take computer software for granted. Like your printer and your voice mail system, it's always there, doing its part to keep your business running. Or is it? If the software on your business computers is too basic, too advanced, or too generic to meet your needs, productivity will suffer. Here's how the right business software can reap a multitude of rewards:
Read Full Guide

Tech Terms
Tech Terminology for Business Owners
By Jennifer Baljko
While an assortment of hardware devices and software applications have supposedly made life easier for entrepreneurs, they've also brought with them a whole new language. Here are some tips that will help you keep up: 1) Learn a few key phrases every week, especially ones that are relevant to your industry. 2) Read technology sections in mainstream magazines and newspapers as they are usually easy to follow. 3) Talk to IT folks; they work with this stuff daily. Here are the resources you need: Read Full Guide

Tech Check
Selecting the Right Startup Technology
By Jennifer Mattern
There's no getting around it: To run a successful business in the Digital Age, you have to rely on ever-changing technology. Three key tactics will see you through the dizzying choices: 1) Evaluate cost versus innovation, and decide where your priorities lie. 2) Aim for user-friendly. 3) Always try before you buy. Here are the best contacts and resources to help you get it done: Read Full Guide

Startup
Technology
Management
Money and Finance