Technology: Small Business Growth Tips

Almost everyday I encounter a business colleague, client or friend that is frustrated with an inanimate object. Yes, it is his or her computer as well as their ability to be effective with constantly changing computer technology.

Here are a few tips to help you avoid frustration:

1. Get help with technology when you need it – we all need it. And, we all need it every month. Even though I’m considered very tech savvy compared to most people on the planet, I spent a dozen hours this past week seeking assistance from IT experts. And, I called the tech support help line of 2-3 vendors (routers, cable modems, etc.) several times this past week. It helped me solve problems faster and more efficiently, in most cases. Don’t be shy when it comes to getting help with technology.
2. Purchase a new laptop or desk top computer at least every two years. According to  Moore’s law, which describes a long-term trend in the history of computing hardware, the number of transistors that can be placed inexpensively on an integrated circuit has doubled approximately every two years. The trend has continued for more than half a century and is not expected to stop until 2015 or later. Your level of frustration increases if your computer is bogged down because of old hardware and software. Although my two-year old computer is working fine, I purchased a new one this month. The difference is significant and it is already paying for itself in improved efficiency.
3. Small business owners should budget, at a minimum, at least $100 per month for computer hardware and software (per person if you have less than a dozen people). What this means is over a two-year period you’ll spent at least $2,500 on average per person to stay current and efficient.
4. Become a great delegator. Assign technology related tasks to those with the proper skills. I often encounter small business owners with the mindset, “I can do that myself.” We are all guilty – we don’t want to spend money on things we can do ourselves. However, this often stymies small business growth because the business owner is too busy working “in the business” instead of “growing the business.” If you haven’t done so already (most have by the way), go to your local library and get the book by Paul Gruber, “E-Myth Revisited.”

What do you recommend? Leave a comment with your suggestions – thanks.

Greg Magnus, Richmond SCORE
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