One of the remarkable things about small businesses is that many have great amounts of flexibility when it comes to how business is run. When a new program is introduced to the market that can boost productivity, implementation is simplified in a small business setting. If the program turns out to not work for that business, it can be tossed and employees can go back to the way they did things before.
Increasing small business productivity includes having the ability to stay in touch with both employees and customers. Because of this, cell phones have become critical parts of small business over the last two decades. Now, not only cell phones, but smart phones are becoming essential to running a productive small business. Every day new phone apps are introduced with new capabilities and special features. Apps to boost productivity for small businesses are among the most popular.
DropBox– Dropbox is an app that is compatible with Linux, Mac, and Windows so that any files stored within the app are viewable and updatable from anywhere. Nobody has to go back to the office to email a file to a colleague. Nobody has to worry that a ruined laptop means all of the business’s important information is gone. Users can log in and download data stored in the drop box from any computer or smart phone anywhere. Users can have a free account with 2GB of storage, or paid access with more storage. The app is free.
ReQall- Reqall is a cross-platform app that is compatible with the iPhone, Android, or Blackberry. It also runs as a web-based application for computers. Used as a mobile personal assistant, reQall takes all of the user’s to-do lists and combines them into one account. It prioritizes lists and even reminds the user of things that need to be done based on where the user is, the time of day, and the current to-do list. ReQall also takes voice notes and turns them into text before saving them in the user’s account to be accessed later. This app is free.
Square– Square is an app that can be used for the iPhone or Android to accept debit or credit card payments from customers anywhere and any time. When users sign up for the app, Square sends out a free card reader. Once the app is connected to the user’s business bank account, Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover can all be used to make payments via smart phone. There are no monthly fees for using the app, but there is a commission charge of 2.75% of each transaction. This app is free.
Shoeboxed Reciept Tracker and Reader – This receipt reader and tracker can be used by business owners who have a hard time keeping ahold of receipts. Users of this app can snap a photo of their business related receipts using the phone’s camera, and then archive it access later. To make the most of this app, it should be used with the online version of Shoeboxed. There businesses can organize expense records and make sure that they are getting the most out of their business when tax time comes. Shoeboxed has a number of plans that can fit any needs, and allows all users to try it for free for 30 days.
