When running a small business, it is difficult to find technology to help with business operations at an affordable price point. While big companies can afford to pour thousands of dollars into Adobe programs or software that manages finances, smaller companies need things that are either inexpensive or free. This list of technologies that are ideal for small businesses was created with that detail in mind.

1. Slack

Slack is an excellent way to communicate with employees while still respecting their personal privacy. Some corporations choose to rely upon text messages or emails to communicate, blending the boundary between home and work. These traditional channels are usually packed with irrelevant and distracting information. Slack provides a communication channel that can be as decluttered or as busy as you want it and provides employees with a feeling of privacy. In addition, they can stay focused while at work by simply checking Slack instead of their text messages. With so many great features on their freemium version, Slack has quickly become one of the most used small business management tools.

2. Canva

For those who can’t afford high-dollar brochure and flyer programs, Canva can create both of those and more. The free platform has free clipart, themes, and images that you can use to create aesthetically appealing documents. While many expensive programs tend to create complex, overwrought documents, Canva creates minimalistic, soothing designs with a little bit of help. The interface is also very user-friendly and essentially does whatever you want it to.

3. Unsplash

Photos are a key part of websites, presentations, and advertisements. Small businesses can’t afford expensive stock photos or photographers to capture exactly what they need for a document, so they need a wide variety of (hopefully) free photos. Unsplash is simply one of many alternatives that offer free photos for personal and commercial use. Although citing photographers is not required, it does help to return the favor and boost their reputation by including their name and information.

4. Prezi

Prezi is a relatively inexpensive program that allows you to create visually appealing presentations. It takes a little practice, but Prezi presentations are designed not only to display ideas but to organize and emphasize them as well. Always give an engaging presentation at work by using their highly interactive program and templates.

5. Mint

Small business owners struggle to track finances. While this has traditionally been a common trend, it doesn’t have to be. The biggest obstacle is the lack of resources and finance programs are often costly and difficult to use. Mint is an exception. Mint can be downloaded for free and will track and categorize your expenses and income. It can also help you create and stick with a budget. If you feel like your money disappears throughout the month, Mint is a fantastic way to figure out where that money is going and how to reallocate it.

6. Skype or Facetime

Small businesses can’t always afford a central location. If a traditional office setting is inaccessible to you, consider going remote. However, one of the biggest dangers is that your employees may not be able to effectively communicate with each other. Even if they manage to Slack properly, they still might feel like they don’t know who they’re working for. Video calls are an amazing way to make connections and help far-away employees feel like they’re on the same team.

7. Online Appointment Scheduling

While many small businesses can afford to hire secretaries, some can’t. Most businesses, however, need to be able to coordinate schedules with both employees and clients. Use a free scheduling website to organize schedules without having to hire a secretary.

 Conclusion

All businesses start somewhere. However, for some reason or another, some businesses have fewer opportunities than others. Use this technology for small businesses to help give your company a head start. If you enjoyed these small business management tools, let me know in the comments below.