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It's impossible to run your business without the right tech. How to choose the right computer equipment to increase your productivity and efficiency without it costing the earth.

Business software – such as accounting and security software - makes running your business easier, safer and more efficient. Learn how to decide what software you're likely to need.

Building a business website is easy using web design software with intuitive drag-and-drop templates. You can also use a web agency or designer to build your online presence.

From business email and phone to instant messaging, you need to be able to stay in touch with customers, staff and suppliers. Here's how to set up effective business comms.

How would you cope if your IT system failed or was hacked? We cover the main IT security threats and how to protect against them.

Getting the right IT is just the first step. Appropriate staff training, IT policies and working practices can help you maximise return on your IT investment.

IT support is vital if you rely on your IT system. But how can you set up an effective safety net in case things go wrong? We explore the options.

Getting the right IT is just the first step. Appropriate training, policies and working practices can help you maximise return on your IT investment.

Five free collaboration tools

You don’t need a big budget to try out online collaboration in your business. These five tools can help you work together – and they won’t cost you a penny

1. HubSpot Project Management

Plan your marketing with HubSpot's Project Management Software. Integration with HubSpot's other marketing tools allows you manage all your marketing on one platform. Set targets, assign them to team members, connect tasks to your calendars and email and set reminders. Complete with ready-made to-do lists, team projects need never go astray again.

2. Google Docs

Google Docs is just one of the tools from Google's suite of tools, Google Workspace, that can help you run your business. What's great is that many of these tools will already be familiar. Gmail, Google Docs, Calendar - these are all free tools that millions of us use every day. It has lots of document sharing functions built in, so you can work on a document together with other people in your company. All you need to start using it is an internet connection.

3. Trello

Bring your tasks and team mates together with Trello. Keep tasks organised and moving in the right direction with lists and cards for each project. Set deadlines and assign tasks and monitor progress with Trello's simple visual platform. The free version allows unlimited cards, up to ten boards, unlimited storage and and activity logs,  assignees and due dates.

4. Bubbl.us

With Bubbl.us, you can run a team brainstorming session online. You can create mind-maps and bubble diagrams online, then share them with other people across the internet. The free version allows you to create and share up to three mind-maps.

5. Doodle

Doodle helps you schedule online meetings and get-togethers with ease. You can make information about when you're free available online, and it's designed to work with existing calendar tools like Outlook or Google Calendar. The free version allows unlimited group polls, one sign-up sheet and booking page.

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