Most small businesses have small budgets and limited staff. In order to operate efficiently, the introduction of tools and technology is critical. With the emergence of cloud software, you can create accounts and start using tools instantly.
Our team uses several tools to manage our business. All of these tools are free, with options to upgrade to premium packages. They also have mobile apps, which increases their utility and convenience.
Feel free to reach out to us if you have questions on any the tools listing in this post.
The first four tools are from Google's G-suite - which consists of several tools that are tailored to increase efficiency for small businesses.
1. Google Sheets
What is it used for?
Create and Share Spreadsheets
What is it?
This is Google's equivalent to Microsoft Excel. Create spreadsheets, and work collaboratively with other team members. The files are stored in the cloud, and can be accessed by any device that is connected to the internet.
2. Google Docs
What is it used for?
Create and Share Word Documents
What is it?
This is Google's equivalent to Microsoft Word. Similar to Google Sheets you can create word documents and share/collaborate with other team members.
3. Google Drive
What is it used for?
Store and manage files, documents, images, spreadsheets, etc.
What is it?
Google Drive allows you to store your files in the cloud, and share them with others. Storing data in the cloud gives you the convenience of accessing data from any computer or mobile device.
4. Google Forms
What is it used for?
Create Surveys and Forms
What is it?
This is Google's version of Survey Monkey. Quickly create surveys and forms. Google Forms can be shared with a link or embedded directly in your website.
5. Asana
What is it used for?
Manage Projects and Tasks
What is it?
This is a project management tool. It encourages accountability amongst team members and helps track progress. Regardless of your team size, I strongly suggest implementing a project management tool.
6. Canva
What is it used for?
Create Graphics with Simple Templates
What is it?
For those of us that are not artistic, this tool is perfect. Canva offers a wide variety of templates for all social media platforms. It also offers templates for logos, press releases and many other documents.
7. Buffer
What is it used for?
Schedule Social Media Post
What is it?
Posting on social media is time consuming. This tool allows you to schedule most on all major social media platforms and track engagement using analytics.
8. Slack
What is it used for?
Communicate With Team Members
What is it?
Slack is considered an email replacement platform. It's designed to organize conversations in channels and encourage focused conversation. It is one of the top tools for start-ups.
9. Mailchimp
What is it used for?
Manage Email Campaigns
What is it?
Mailchimp is a great option for sending out mass emails to your customers. The service is free up to 2,000 subscribers. Users can create customer segments and automate email distribution.