Technology
When we first start out in business a
large amount of cost will be associated with technology such as phones both
landline and mobile, fax machines, computers, printers, scanners etc but
what we have to remember is that after we have purchased these items we have
continuing cost associated with them so be very careful in considering the
amount of expenditure you are going to make .
Computers
Today if you are starting a business you will most likely need a computer
although you could do without one but you will not be as organized efficient
or professional and as you will not be online you will miss out on contacts
and potential customers.
Consider what you want the computer to do for your
business as there is no sense in spending large amount of money on a top of
the range computer when you could make do with on at half the price.
Make a list of what you want the computer to do and visit 3/4 computer
suppliers and get some quotes. You need a basic understanding of what a
computer can do and to do this just type into one of the search engines "how
do computers work" and you will get plenty of information
You will want to have a reasonable
understanding of the following.
- Processor
- Ram
- Hard Disk
- Monitor
- CD Drive
- Video Card
- Speakers and Sound Card
- Modem
- Printers and Scanners
Seek advice from anyone who has purchased a
computer for their business and listen to their advice but at the end of the
day you will have to make the decision on what you require yourself.
Do not be rushed by a salesperson into
buying a package that looks a good deal but isn't quite what you want.
You will need to make a decision on whether to buy a
Laptop or Desktop machine and if you need to have access at one or more
locations you will probable need a Laptop.
With a desktop you can have higher specifications and it can come with a
large monitor quite important if you a spending a fair amount of time
working with them. They are usually easier to expand at a later date.
Printers
The printer has now become an essential business tool as it can create
professional documents and promotional literature saving you money and time.
Their is a large selection of printers on the market and today the quality
of print is particularly good but when you are buying ask the question what
do the replacement ink containers cost because in some instances these can
be quite expensive and this is part of the ongoing costs that I mentioned
previously.
Work out approximately what the amount of printing you will need to do and
when you looking at printers note the speed of print, do you need colour,
price of new ink containers and of course cost.
Inkjet printers tend to be cheaper than laser printers but they are usually
slower and can be more expensive to maintain.
Do not over spend but you do need a printer that will be
suitable for your business.
Scanners
Scanners are a product that you will need to decide if it is required at the
start of your business because if it would have limited amount of use you
are better to go down to the local copy shop. If you are wanting to say scan
images into a web page a scanner would be required.
A Flatbed scanner is often included in with the PC package so when you are
buying your computer see if a scanner can be included.
Fax Machines
Fax machines have been around for sometime but there are few methods that
are as cost effective, secure and practical to the small business.
Many small businesses prefer to use a fax machine when sending sensitive
documents as it appears more reliable especially with the event of e-mail
viruses.
The Fax machine has certainly not lost its
popularity so it is well worth considering
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