Guide to Growing Your Business with Smart Technology

Plug into broadband

For almost any small business, broadband Internet access is not a luxury these days, it is a necessity.

I recommend: Broadband lets you get the information you need right away and deliver it to customers with lightning speed. Broadband.com has pricing and local suppliers.

Tap business intelligence online

Nothing slows a growth curve like deadbeat partners, vendors or customers. Online services can help you quickly investigate and verify the validity of potential customers, vendors, contractors, partners and competitors.

I recommend: Check out Accurint Business, a new service from LexisNexis.

Hyper-niche your Web strategy

Think about what will best attract potential customers to your type of business. Do distant prospects need more “face time?” Then Web conferencing might work.

I recommend: Web Conferencing Central is a good choice for small businesses that are new to Web conferencing.

Pump up your mobile communications

Use “smart phones” that store contacts and task lists, as well as allowing e-mail and Web access, plus conference calling.

I recommend: Blackberry offers a range of wireless solutions specifically designed for small business, including email, phone, Internet, organizer and others. See the full line of Palm solutions for small business owners and professionals. Discover small business wireless productivity solutions at Cingular.

Connect with Bluetooth

By integrating Bluetooth wireless technology into your business operations, you can throw productivity into hyper-drive. Bluetooth is a wireless technology standard for connecting electronic devices (such as office phones and headsets) over very short distances.

I recommend: Review Bluetooth and small business devices that use it at HelloDirect.

Analyze what happens on your Web site

Web analysis software can help you better understand your Web visitors, and what it takes to convert them to paying customers.

I recommend: Try basic analytic tools like those offered by Google Analytics, or for something more in-depth check out InterSight Technologies.

Build blogosphere buzz

Blogging barely existed a few years ago, but some marketing experts see it as vital to the future of business communications.

I recommend: TypePad (blog creation), Technorati (a blog search engine) and Feedster (a place to set up, learn about and search blogs and RSS feeds) will get you going.

Try Web-enabled phones

Web-based telephoning (voice over Internet or VoIP) is a way to save money and (possibly) improve your phone capabilities at the same time.

I recommend: Vonage is one leading supplier.