Life as a small business owner can get pretty hectic, especially in its early days when you would be wearing many hats at once. Studies show that about 80% of startups or small businesses fail within their first two years. Many of these businesses have bad plans, insufficient capital, or even not having the right gadgets that help make business operations easier. Whether you’re an experienced business owner or getting started, you must equip yourself with the right tools and gadgets. Here are a few basic ones to help you get started:
Computer
As a small business owner, it is essential that you have a computer with you, whether it’s for simply sending and replying to emails, managing your website, or for keeping up with your business account. Because your job requires that you are constantly mobile, laptops are an excellent choice for selecting your computer. It provides all the functions a desktop computer does with the added benefit of being portable. When selecting the right laptop for your business, there are several options to consider.
Ensure that it has enough memory and storage space to help you store important documents. You must also ensure that your laptop also a decent battery lifespan. Most good laptops have battery lifespans of about 10 hours. Now, if you still think laptops are clunky to carry around, you can opt for a tablet. Tablets are much smaller than laptops and less heavy to hold. There are several smart keyboards you can connect to your tablet to give it a laptop feel. Plus, you would look more tech-savvy in front of your clients!
Portable Point of Sale (POS) machine
Electronic payment has grown popular over the past few years. In 2022, it is expected that the total transaction value in digital payments will reach over £355 million. Many customers prefer electronic payments to cash. Plus, digital payments are quicker and simpler to make. It would be a great idea for your business, especially if you sell products or offer a service. It is not only super easy to use but also convenient and secure.
Drone
You might be wondering why drones are on this list. But these are changing times, and drones are technological advancements that have made business operations easier. Many businesses are shifting from brick-and-mortar stores to online stores to reduce operational costs with physical locations. Online shopping means that customers expect to have their wares delivered in record time.
Traditional postal services have remained pretty much the same over the past couple of years. While they are reliable, they are prone to setbacks that cause deliveries to delay. Many businesses are turning to drone systems that can deliver packages in 30 minutes or less! Plus, they are environmentally friendly. If you’re keen to meet your small parcel or document delivery goals for this year, check out a couple of powerful drones from Dr Drone that can keep you on target. You’ll certainly be way ahead of your competitors.
Printer
While it is true that several companies are going paperless, there are certain times when you will need to print some documents, whether it’s a couple of invoices, letters, or some signs for your doors and windows. Thankfully, you wouldn’t need to buy a big printing machine that takes up most of the space in your office. There are so many contemporary printers that are compact, sleek, and, most importantly, wireless. You can set up these printers straight from your computer or even your smartphone. All you will need is a stable internet connection. Many newer model printers also come with an in-built scanning function, although slightly limited. However, it’s great to have if you don’t need anything more than running basic scans. Also, many new printers available do not require you to change ink cartridges when you run out. Instead, you can top it up.
WiFi router
This is a very obvious gadget to have. But if you don’t, how has your business survived so far? If you are new to your business, it might surprise you how much internet your business relies upon, from your POS system to the printer, laptop, smartphone, or surveillance system. Your business would not go on without a stable internet connection.
Ensure that you sign up with a trusted and reliable internet service provider that offers excellent competitive speeds and provides superior customer services. There are several packages that these service providers offer depending on your business’s size and internet demands. Additionally, you can even provide internet to customers, especially if your business sees a lot of foot traffic. It’s a great way to keep the numbers up and encourage customers to frequent your business for longer periods.
Surveillance
Regardless of the size of your business, you must ensure that it remains safe at all times. It should be one of the first things to do when finding your business’s location. Several surveillance tools and gadgets are on offer, from alarm systems to motion detectors for a small business to ensure the same. Ensure that your business is covered with video surveillance to avoid being attacked or robbed.
Video cameras are the most effective way of monitoring footage of things happening around your business’s premises. Different alarms will alert you of any intruders, especially during off-hours. You must also make sure that you put your business on an insurance plan before you start the operation to be protected in the event of theft or natural disaster. It is important to remain one step ahead when it comes to security.
Mobile digital scanner
If you need a faster way to scan important documents while on the go, you must purchase a mobile digital scanner. It’s perfect for when you don’t have access to a scanner or are on the road. Plus, you wouldn’t have to worry about losing scraps of paper while on a trip, or you’re moving from one meeting to another. These scanners are also equipped to organize your scanned documents on your computer, making them easy for you to retrieve at any given time. If you’re starting your business and do not have the funds to buy a mobile scanner, chances are your smartphone is equipped to provide this service.
You’re ensured of smooth business operations with these seven gadgets. Be sure to check out which items are best suited for your business before deciding.