(NC)-Technology can level the playing field for small businesses by providing the tools and resources once only afforded to large corporations with dedicated IT departments. The challenge many local businesses face is where to start and how to figure out which technologies are good investments and which are better left in the box?

Follows are the top technology strategies you can implement to help increase your business’ bottom line.

Seek help

Unless you’re a bona fide technophile, a technology advisor can be a small business’ most valued asset. Companies such as The Geek Squad or Nerds on Site offer on-site IT services ranging from technology needs assessment to IT setup and support. Find an advisor who understands your business’ needs and technology requirements and build an ongoing, trusting relationship with that person.

Go mobile

With a laptop computer, it’s easy to stay productive anywhere, finish work faster, and respond to customers. Laptops with built-in wireless connectivity, like the ones based on Intel’s Centrino Duo mobile technology can connect to the Internet anywhere there’s a wireless signal. With more and more Internet hot spots popping up in coffee shops, hotels, airports and other pubic spaces, getting work done on-the-fly has never been easier.

Additionally, laptops based on dual core technology, such as Intel’s Core 2 Duo processors essentially mean there are “two brains” inside your PC. Designed for multitasking, dual core technology enables users to run several applications simultaneously without slowing down the performance of the notebook.

Take it online

Potential customers can learn more about your business from a simple, informative Web site than a phone directory listing. Within seconds, they can find out what you sell, when you’re open, how to get to your location and more. Although a website is just one of many tools in the marketing mix, not having website can be a deterrent to many potential customers, especially if the competition has one.

Network together

A network brings efficiency and time savings to your business by connecting all of your PCs and printers and by enabling employees to access files and applications from any PC. And with a wireless network-or WLAN, your employees can stay connected to the network from anywhere in the building. Not only do you save on many of the costs of a traditional wired network, but the opportunities for increased productivity can help to positively impact your business’ bottom line.

Credit: www.newscanada.com

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