Thinking about starting a new business? Have you recently left corporate life either by choice or the result of downsizing? If you have decided to start your own business, chances are that you have already spoken with an attorney, accountant and probably have a plan in place to finance your new venture. However, have you given any thought to a Technology Plan? Will you be setting up a home office? As an entrepreneur, you no longer can call a support desk when something goes wrong. How about a backup and disaster strategy?
Technology is now the single most important tool you will need to support your business. Along with a traditional business plan, here are some technology issues that you should address before you are too far along with your venture.
1. Where will your business be based? At home, business center, traditional office, etc.
2. Will you be spending most of your time in your office or on the road. Is international travel involved?
3. What type of computer(s) will be needed? What about printers, scanners, etc.?
4. How will you be accessing the Internet? If there are multiple computers, will you need a network? Will you need to be wireless?
5. What software will you need? Have you considered the Internet has a resource for functions such as e-mail, telephone, contact information, calendars, etc.
6. Have you thought about support and maintenance? Although, there maybe someone on staff that is able to handle simple maintenance issues, you should consider using an outside resource to reduce the amount of system down time. Outsourcing your technical support permits you and your employees to focus on your business.
It is possible to save thousands of dollars by addressing your technology needs in advance.
**YOUR SUCCESS WILL DEPEND ON HOW WELL YOUR TECHNOLOGY SUPPORTS YOUR BUSINESS!!**
