Setting up a business can be a daunting task. There are so many pieces of the puzzle that need to be put together and deciding what hardware you need to get your business started is just one of them.
Computers
There are probably not very many businesses in the world today that don’t have a computer in some shape or form. In this age of technology, it’s next to impossible to even run a business without the help of a computer.
One of the first things to decide on when choosing a computer is what kind of computer is the best fit for your business? Do you need desk top work stations for all your employees? Is it more a mobile business that requires laptops? Do your employees need tablets? These are all things you have to consider before investing in computers for your business. You may decide that you need some combination of the above in order to have your business running smoothly. Just consider what the computer is going to be used for, where it’s going to be used, and how many are going to be needed so that you can make sure you’ve purchased the best option for your business.
Next, you’ll probably be wondering what brand of computer to purchase. Generally speaking, all computers and laptops out there, regardless of the brand name that’s on them, have the same components inside. There are only one or two companies that make computer components so no matter what brand you pick the inner workings are more than likely the same. However, what you do have to consider is durability, upkeep, and that it will do everything you need it to.
You ultimately need to make sure that the computer can handle whatever your business throws at it. If your business uses lots of multi-media, then you need to make sure that the computer or laptop you buy has enough storage for all those bulky multi-media files and that it has a processor that can handle all that work.
You also want to make sure that the computer, laptop, or tablet will last several years and that the hardware will require minimal upkeep. Making sure the computer is user-friendly and easy to use is another feature you might want to look into.
If your company requires something more specific than is available in local stores, then you can have a computer custom built to your businesses needs by a reputable computer service.
Printers
Printers are another must have when running a business and which type of printer you install depends entirely on the type of business you’re running and what you need it for. Some businesses will just need to print occasionally and a standard printer found at your local chain computer store will do just fine. Others will be printing on a constant basis and will need something a little more heavy duty and industrial.
Printers range from compact ones that just print to all-in-one versions that print/scan/fax to industrial printers that can handle any amount of work you throw at them. Determining which printer is needed depends on what type of business you’re running and how much you will use it. However, it is commonly agreed upon that having at least one printer in house is a must for any business and the cost is minimal for the convenience you will get from it.
Servers
If you are running a small business you might be able to get away with using a personal computer as your network server for awhile. However, there are many advantages of having a dedicated server for your business. Advantages like having a faster CPU, higher performance memory, enhanced security, and larger storage capacity are just a few. Network servers help to support your database, email applications, and other files as well as giving you more backup options.
So how do you pick the right network server solution for your business? Well, unless you are well versed in network applications and servers we would strongly suggest you talk to a specialist in this field to make sure you get exactly what you need to have your business run efficiently.
Telephone Systems
I think we can all agree that telephone systems are at the heart of all businesses. Without proper communications, businesses just don’t run. Plain and simple! But like all the other categories mentioned, there are so many choices to pick from.
Contrary to what some might think, businesses and some individuals still make use of landlines and they do have their advantages. However, many businesses these days run strictly on cellphones and VOIP connections.
Cellphones are probably the single-most used piece of technology around. Just about everyone you meet has one making cellphones a great resource for all businesses. Many businesses can run entirely by cellphone. Smartphones are especially critical for businesses and their employees that are constantly on the go because they not only provide voice connection but also email connection and apps that help accomplish everything from checking schedules to booking a flight. Truly, these little devices are like having a personal assistant in your pocket at all times.
Now another option that can be used exclusively or in concert with a landline/cellphone situation, is a Voice Over Internet Protocol or VOIP telephone solution. Although the name may sound scary and intimidating to those who have little tech knowledge, it’s likely that you already use this type of service in your personal life. There are many VOIP solutions out there but by far the most recognized one is Skype. Although not the only VOIP service available, it is one of the most widely used ones and it generally is free to use for most applications. Other services may charge a small fee for businesses to use their services. However, most also allow you to have video calls so it is definitely something every business should have set up.
Network Equipment
The category called network equipment can include everything from wireless routers and access points to firewalls and other security appliances to network interface cards. It is more than likely that you will need at least one wireless router somewhere in your business. This will allow employees, and possibly clients, the ability to get online easily from their laptops, tablets, and cellphones.
Most items in this particular category we would highly recommend you talk with a specialist about to make sure you get the right solutions for your business. Depending on the size of your organization the solution could be very simple and easy for you to implement on your own or it may be more complex and need a professional to set up. Setting up your business right from the start will save you a lot of frustration and work later on.
DataOne can help you to set up your organization’s network and get your business up and running in no time. Click here and contact us today to get started!