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.
As bulging inboxes around the world indicate, email is an essential tool for every company. It is often the communication method of choice, because it's easy and versatile.
Because there are several ways to get a business email system, it's important to establish your requirements first, then work out the best way to meet them.
Start by asking yourself some key questions. What email address do you want? Are you happy with a free email address or do you want to use your company or domain name in your email address? How many email addresses do you need? How do you want to access your email?
Most email services limit the size of attachments and the number of messages you can store, so you also need to consider the volume and nature of messages you will be handling. If you want to send automated or marketing messages (like a company newsletter), you'll need to invest in email marketing software or outsource your email marketing campaigns to a specialist provider.
Once you've settled on your requirements, there are three main ways to get business email:
You'll also need to give people in your business some way of accessing their email. This is usually done by installing email software onto each device. If you already use an office suite, it may well include email software. The most common business email software is Microsoft Outlook.
You'll probably want email addresses which end in your company's domain name (like yourcompany.com). Check this is possible with your chosen email system. Some suppliers restrict how domain names can be used or require you to transfer your domain to them.
For all but the simplest business email systems, it's worth consulting an expert - like your IT supplier - to ensure your email system fits your needs.
Once your company email system is up and running, there are some key issues to consider:
Ongoing business email management needn't take too much effort, but you need clear procedures for certain situations. For instance, when an employee leaves, you may need to ensure their emails get forwarded on to an alternative member of staff.
