Startup Budgeting: How to Save Money on Technology

Guest Blog from Gloria Martinez of womenled.org

When you’re starting a business, it feels like the costs never stop rolling in. From the fees to incorporate your business to the rent for your office space, there’s a lot to pay for before earning your first dollar.

One expense that catches fledgling business owners by surprise is technology and equipment costs. Computers, phones, and other tech costs add up quickly. While equipment financing is available to help cover the costs, borrowing too much could cripple your business before it ever gets off the ground.

Whether you’re saving with a Best Buy promo code or by outsourcing IT work, these tips will help you save money on small business technology so you can launch your small business for less.

How to Save On: IT Equipment

IT equipment is more affordable than ever, but when you’re furnishing an entire office, the costs still add up. One option for saving on IT equipment is buying used. While it might not be top-of-the-line, buying secondhand printers and copiers, computer monitors, and other non-critical equipment secondhand can save thousands of dollars. To play it safe, shop for refurbished equipment that comes with a warranty.

Some IT equipment isn’t worth buying secondhand. It’s recommended to replace company PCs every three to five years to avoid lagging performance, compatibility issues, and expiring warranties. If you buy secondhand computers and laptops to save money, you may create more problems than you save. Instead of shopping used, look for deals on new business computers. Best Buy is a usually a good source of affordable business technology, as their daily deals can be paired with third-party coupons and discounts for extra savings. To learn more about how to save at Best Buy, consult this Best Buy shopping guide, which offers tips and details about store credit cards, their price match guarantee, and much more.

How to Save On: Company Phones

Does your business really need a landline? Office landlines are not only costly, but they’re also difficult to maintain without in-house IT staff. Instead, many small businesses are switching to voice-over-IP, or VoIP phone systems, which use the internet to make and receive calls.

VoIP is a good solution in the office, but if your employees work remotely or are frequently on the go? Cell phones are a better fit for many modern offices, but businesses that purchase cell phones for employees need to be cautious about the plan they choose. It’s better to avoid overage charges than risk paying for them, which means choosing a plan with more than enough data or your needs. For most businesses, that means opting for unlimited cell phone plans, but it’s always smart to comparison shop to choose the best option for your company’s needs.

How to Save On: Tech Support

Speaking of in-house IT staff: Many small businesses can’t afford to hire IT pros full-time, but they still need them. Instead of hiring in-house, businesses on a budget should outsource IT to a third party. Outsourcing means you only pay for the help you need instead of keeping someone on staff in case problems arise. It also means you can afford greater expertise than you could otherwise.

Outsourcing IT helps your business manage day-to-day tech support issues and addresses the big stuff like cybersecurity precautions. However, not all managed IT services are skilled in data recovery after a cyberattack happens. If your business is targeted by malware, a phishing scam, or another type of cyberattack, hiring an IT company that specializes in data recovery is the best way to minimize downtime.

As you invest in equipment for your new business venture, keep in mind that you don’t need all the best technology right away. By paying for quality where it matters and finding ways to save on less critical equipment, you can get your business up and running for less. As your business starts earning money, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to upgrade as your company grows.

CH Consulting Group provides unparalleled expertise in the Contact Center and Customer Experience (CX) verticals. We have a nationwide team of industry veterans that can assist you to achieve exponential growth, manage change, and generate profit. For a comprehensive CX assessment and strategic plan customized for your unique business needs, connect with us here today.

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