Technological advances have revolutionized the way we do business.Technology costs, however, can really eat away at your business budget. While you do not want to compromise the efficiency and quality of your operation by cutting too many corners, some careful evaluation of your current practices will likely uncover some room for improvement. Here are some important considerations for reducing technology costs for your business.
Go to the Cloud
We have been hearing a lot about the “cloud” lately, and while the core technology of remote data storage is really not brand new, its applications are quickly expanding.More and more businesses are forgoing onsite data storage at least partially in favor of web-based solutions. Programs such as cloud server hosting can help cut technology costs on various fronts. Working with a cloud service provider can result in reduced need for IT staff, lower software costs and less reliance on other third-party service providers, all of which can add up to significant savings. When contemplating this move, it is important to get clear on your needs and find a company that not only can meet them, but is experiencede in working with your specific type of business.
Buy Refurbished Hardware
We all love new and shiny things.When buying hardware for your business, it is understandable to want brand new products, but if you are really looking to cut down on your technology costs, refurbished hardware may be something to seriously consider. Often times these products are as good as new and come with significant savings. When going this route, however, it is important to have a full understanding of how each manufacturer defines “refurbished.” You can go right to a particular manufacturer’s site or look on a site such as Amazon.com or Ebay.com for a listing of refurbished hardware sellers.The reviews provided on these types of sites can be a very helpful guide in choosing quality refurbished products.
Outsource
“Outsource” has become a dirty word of sorts in the business world, but it definitely offers advantages, especially for business owners looking to cut costs. If you do not have a full-time IT person on staff or have one person who currently has his plate full, the web provides you access to a number of highly qualified freelancers who are available for as long as you need them, whether for a day or a month. You can save money on headhunter and temp agency fees, and avoid taking on a salaried employee that you really do not need every day. Sites like elance.com or Guru.com provide a wealth of information on freelancers from rates to portfolios. You can post a job right on the site or reach out directly to people listing their services on the site. These sites also provide feedback from past clients so you are not going into a hire completely blind. Perhaps the best part of all is that the service is completely free to use on your end.