Introduction to Business Software

Many people are aware of the importance of technology in business today. This module aims to present some of the most popular open source, free, applications for running your business. These include:

1. Project Management software which enables you to track and plan tasks and duties through a single computer application. This can help ensure your business tasks and schedules are achieved.

2. Email collaboration software can simplify the process of maintaining contacts and distributing information to many at the push of a button.

3. Office Productivity suites which allow you to develop documents, charts and presentations for use in your business.

4. Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) allows you to remotely contact business partners or clients through the internet. Skype is a widely known type of VoIP.

5. Google Apps provides you with a variety of applications to help you manage your time and file your documents in a central location.

6. Accounting Software helps you track the money coming in and going out of your business through your computer. This software also includes payroll and invoicing features.

7. Customer Relations Management (CRM) and Human Resource Management (HRM) software helps you store and maintain information on both your customers and employees respectively. This software may not be that relevant at start up stage but should be considered when staff levels increase.

While all of these software applications may not be relevant to you depending on the size or type of your business, they serve as a sample of the online resources that are available to businesses to assist in the running of your operations. 

Check out the software you think would be useful to you and download the applications to start working with them. These are downloadable from the software websites, are safe to use and free of charge.