Technology is important for small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Technology tools can elevate your business, ensure continuity and solidify your business for the future. There are a lot of tech-based tools that you can use for your business, you just need to decide which tools are best for your business.
Tech tools are often referred to as electronic, digital or tech-based tools that help people perform a certain task or create certain products. These tools range from laptops and software to solar panels and uninterrupted power supply (UPS) machines.
As a small business owner, you can use tech tools to set yourself apart from the competition. This will bring in a whole new customer base and cement your business for the future.
This article will outline some of the more affordable tech tools available to SMEs.
Cloud-based Tech Tools
Cloud-based tech tools are software programmes or applications that are stored and made available through the cloud. Cloud-based tools are more affordable than others and have scalable resources. This will make it easier and cheaper to upgrade your tech tools.
Additionally, cloud-based tools eliminate the need for IT infrastructure and hardware maintenance.
Some cloud-based tools to consider for your SME include:
Xero
Xero is an accounting software tool that streamlines financial processes for SMEs. The starter package costs R108,75 per month.
QuickBooks
QuickBooks is another accounting software tool which reduces the time spent on tasks such as bookkeeping. The starter package costs R138 per month.
Salesforce
Salesforce is a customer relationship management (CRM) platform. The platform allows marketing and sales departments to view a customer’s buying history. The small business package starts at R 490,76 per month.
Zoho People
Zoho People allows enterprises to customise leave forms and time-track employees. Additionally, employees can access the Zoho People portal to enter their leave online. The cheapest package costs R12,50 per user/per month.
These cloud-based tools are cheap and effectively help your business run seamlessly.
Artificial Intelligence-based Tools for SMEs
Another type of technology taking over the world is artificial intelligence (AI). AI is increasingly influencing the way SMEs work all around the world.
Some AI-based tools to consider for your SME include:
Adobe Sensei
Adobe Sensei uses AI technology to create personalised marketing strategies. It has features such as analysing customer data and tailoring content for SMEs which are aiming to boost engagement and conversion rates.
Note: You can hire someone who knows Adobe Sensei or take a short course to get training for yourself.
Flick
Flick is an AI tool which is used to create content on social media. The tool features post scheduling, generating hashtags and providing analytics tools for platforms such as Instagram, LinkedIn and TikTok. The tool also has a built-in AI marketing assistant to help you brainstorm new ideas.
Flick has a starter package plus a 7-day free trial. Thereafter, the plan will cost you R 273,41 per month.
Note: The cost was converted from Euros and pricing may be subject to conversation rates.
ChatGPT
ChatGPT is an AI tool which helps businesses with many tasks. The large language model can brainstorm ideas, write content and gather real-time information from the Internet to help you with anything.
Note: ChatGPT has paid subscriptions, but the free version works just as well.
6sense
6sense is an AI-powered tool that helps businesses with lead capturing. The tool helps find leads while researching in ‘stealth mode’. 6sense has a range of packages designed to accommodate businesses of different size
Using AI can elevate your business to optimise sales, marketing and other processes. This will ensure that your business is successful and making profits.
Other Tech Tools for SMEs
Cloud and AI-based tools are not the only ones available. Other tools have some AI integration or use cloud technology for certain functions. There are other tools that you need which will take your business to the next level.
Some other tools for SMEs include:
Google Data Studio
Google’s Data Studio is a data analytics platform. It integrates with Google Analytics, Google Ads and Google BigQuery to help businesses better understand their customer conversion and retention. Google Data Studio is free to use.
Paystack
Paystack is a payment processing company and a subsidiary of Stripe. The platform processes online (and offline) payments for businesses in South Africa and the rest of Africa. One of its biggest clients is MTN. Paystack charges different fees for local and international transactions.
Technology Hardware Tools
These tools are the real essentials of the business. Tech hardware tools include laptops, printers, UPS and office phones. These tools are the basics for any business. They will elevate your overall functionality and improve business operations.
Technology does seem like a daunting task to undertake. There are so many tools, solutions and platforms to browse through but don’t panic, this article can help you with making the decision easier.
For more information on tech tools for SMEs, explore our article about 9 tech tools for every business needs.
