Small Business Software

For Starting a Small Business Online

When starting a small business on the internet, you will likely be tempted to buy small business software that you really do not need. Once you are established, it will be possible to buy software that will make your job easier, but if you are just starting out your cash flow is probably limited and you won’t want to burn it up by purchasing software that you can do without.

You just need the basics…

• An operating system
• A word processor
• Security software

In most cases, if you have a computer, you already have these and if you don’t, they will probably be included when you purchase a computer.

Once you get going it will be helpful to have some other small business software and small business resources that will make your job so much easier.

I am providing some recommendations and some of them are free or have free trials.

Operating Systems

Personally, I use Microsoft Windows XP Professional Edition , but some home business owners recommend Windows Vista because it is an improved version of the features. Microsoft provides a comparison chart to help you make the right decision.

Office Software

I use Microsoft Office which is great and meets most of my needs. There are several suites available. Here is a comparison to enable you to choose which features you need.

If you can’t afford to purchase Microsoft Office, you might want to try Open Office . It is free and in most cases it is compatible.

Security Software

I use AVG Anti-Virus combined with Windows Defender for proteciton against viruses and spyware. You can get the basic versions for free, and if you still have problems, you might want to upgrade to a paid version.

Planning

Business plans and marketing plans can keep you focused on your goals and can help you to monitor your progress. If you are seeking funding or investments, usually a professional business plan is required.

I used to do business plans and marketing plans for a living. There is no other small business software that is simpler to use to create a professional business plan or marketing plan than Business Plan Pro and Marketing Plan Pro by Palo Alto Software. For a discount, purchase the two together in a package.

Bookkeeping

I have used several bookkeeping programs throughout my career. For a small home business, I recommend QuickBooks Pro . It is easy to use whether or not you have accounting knowledge.

Website Design Software

There are several website design software packages. What you need for basic website design is an html editor and a graphic design program; however, there are other options that you should be aware of.

I'm not a website design expert, but I know that Microsoft Front Page and Adobe Dreamweaver are commonly used along with Adobe Photoshop .

For a free version of a website editing program, you might want to try Kompozer .

I have used FrontPage in the past, but I prefer using Site Build It!

It is simple to use for non-artistic or non-technical people. If you haven’t started building a website (or even if you have) it is worth checking out.