Computers and Software
Get help choosing computers and software
Computers and software are the foundation of most businesses. Using current technology can help your business with everything from financial and accounting management to attracting and retaining customers.With low-priced options, computers are affordable for most businesses. There is a wide range of manufacturers to choose from when shopping for computers and several choices in hardware configuration. Software includes basics like email clients and office productivity suites to specialized software to run your business. With such a wide selection to choose from, here are some things to do to get started and choose computers and software:
1. Look for reviews and advice about computers and software;
2. Compare systems among computer manufacturers and suppliers;
3. Choose some basic software for your day-to-day operations;
4. Browse online to find specialized software to meet your business needs.
Compare vendors of computers and software
There are many choices in personal computers for business. Some options include choosing a computer from popular manufacturers, ordering wholesale computers and having computers custom built for your office. Before making a choice, check out reviews and advice articles and explore the configuration offerings and prices of popular computer providers.
Try: To get help with choosing the right computer, check out an article from PC World or view the desktop review page at CNET. Check out popular manufacturers, too. Check out the Apple website for Mac computers. Dell offers a range of personal computers for small business. The site includes a selection tool to find the right processing power, memory and hardware. Hewlett Packard offers desktop computers as well as workstations and laptops.
Get the basics in computers and software
Once you've chosen a computer, you'll need some basic software to use it effectively. Some basic needs for business computer users include office productivity software, anti-virus programs and email management.
Try: Microsoft is one of the most popular software providers. Their Office product line includes everything your business needs for managing email, producing documents and spreadsheets and creating web pages and presentations. Another basic that you'll need is anti-virus software. check out PC Magazine for reviews and rankings of anti-virus software providers. Another basic is email. Check out alternative free email account options from Google, Mozilla Thunderbird and Eudora.
Check out specialized options in computers and software
Once you've covered the basics, you may also have a need for specialized software to run your business. Getting advice from local software companies and other businesses is one way to find options. There are also many choices online that allow you to browse available software capabilities and programs.
Try: The DMOZ Open Directory Project has links to free software programs offered by open source developers. Software includes everything from accounting programs to system tools. CNET's Download website contains a wide variety of software programs. Many are free, while some require a purchasing fee or request a donation. Software lists software downloads for Windows, Mac and Linux operating systems. The Software Network provides an overview of business software and links to dozens of options.
Copyright © 2011 Business.com, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
