The technology needed to build a profitable small to medium-sized business (SMB) is always changing. Every day there's some new web app, networking device, "must-have" security fix, laptop, PDA, printer, software, e-commerce breakthrough, or a hundred other things you or your IT person needs to know about. The pace of change is so rapid that the fear of failing to keep up with tech has become a top concern for SMBs in nearly every industry. But keep up you must, or risk falling behind. These steps can help:
, trends and strategies for small and medium business -- including web-based solutions, hardware, software and more. Updates daily.
Tap an all-in-one online resource for small biz technology
Go online to get the latest tech news and information.
I recommend: For depth of coverage, independent opinions and a "we get it" sensibility to the needs of small business that's not too "techie,"
Small Business Computing is an excellent resource. Sign up for the free Small Business Computing newsletter on the home page. Great coverage of
News and Trends,
Business Software,
Hardware & Equipment,
Online Marketing,
Buyer's Guides and
Small Business Essentials.
Get professional level SMB tech updates
Sites geared to IT professionals at small and medium businesses are an excellent way to stay ahead of the technology wave.
I recommend: SearchSMB.com is a "go-to" resource for IT pros who work with small and medium businesses (SMBs). The site is chock full of the latest tech advice and information on a wide range of
topics, along with special sections for
tips,
webcasts and helpful
software downloads. Subscribe to the free email
newsletters for updates delivered to your inbox.
See what tech products other biz owners like best
Small Business Computing's annual tech awards let small business owners vote on their favorite technology in dozens of hardware, security, e-commerce and software categories.
I recommend: See which of the latest technology products and services other small businesses like best in the
Excellence in Technology Awards.
Get a more personalized perspective and tech news via RSS feed
Sometimes, a more personal touch makes tech info easier to swallow.
I recommend: Sign up for the weekly e-newsletter Small Business Technology Report from self-described "technology evangelist" Ramon Ray at his Web site
SmallBizTechnology.com. Ray offers great advice and updates with a keen sense of what small business wants and needs.
Keep up with news and advice from major tech suppliers
From tech makers like Microsoft and Intel, to suppliers like CDW, there's a wealth of information to keep you in step.
I recommend: The Microsoft Small Business Center offers current small business technology information and advice on
Broadband & Mobility,
Business Software,
Communications,
E-commerce,
Hardware,
Networking and
Security. Tech vendor
CDW has a helpful
Resource Center with vendor-neutral reviews, case studies and an "Ask the Experts" feature. Also check Intel's
helpful tech solutions guides that you can download as PDF files.Topics include marketing, finance, productivity, management and operations.
Still more small biz tech publications and resources
If your hunger for help is still not satisfied, there's more available.
I recommend: Small Business Technology Magazine is a non-profit publication that helps business owners understand information technology.
The Emerging Enterprise has tech news and updates for growing a business, and the Emerging Enterprise Update newsletter.
Web Marketing Today and
ClickZ will keep you abreast of what's happening with e-commerce and Web marketing.