Hit Small Business Growth Targets with These Web-Based Projects
Have you hit a wall in growing your small business? Sometimes, the right tools and software can make all the difference. Check out this guide for web-based projects that help scale your business and achieve the growth you want and need.
Smart Software Solutions
Software can simplify your small business operations and save you time. Everything from invoicing to accounting to paying team members can go through online software. Client-facing software streamlines the customer experience and can improve your service, too.
To start, a simple website interface that’s responsive and easy to navigate is one way to promote client retention. As your company grows, consider additional software to address client needs.
Online Store Services
Whether you sell products or services, an online storefront can help your business scale up. Customers can order any time, subscribe to product alerts, and cash in on special promotions, all without a cashier or support staff in a brick-and-mortar store.
Adding a store to your website is simple enough to DIY, but you can also hire help to get it done quickly. Then, the day-to-day management is simple for your team (or you) to keep up with.
Web Design
When working with a web designer for a website upgrade, it's important to gather all necessary images and documents that will be needed for the project. This includes any logos, product images, and other visuals that may be used throughout the website. It's also important to provide any necessary copy, such as product descriptions or company information. In order to easily share these documents with the web designer, go here to change JPGs to PDFs. This will ensure that all files are easily shareable and can be easily accessed and edited as needed throughout the project.
Automated Workflows
Many larger businesses rely on automation to streamline processes and save human power, thereby saving money. Automation can eliminate many time-sucks from your small business to-do list, from lead management to email marketing and even social media. You can even set up a chatbot for an interactive user experience without hiring staff or chatting live. Explore automation options for repetitive and time-consuming tasks, and you might free up resources for other expenses and investments.
Essential Coding Skills
Hiring out tasks and buying software are easy ways to get projects done and get ahead in your business. For DIY enthusiasts, though, learning to code and create your own programs can be enjoyable and cost effective. Many code-related resources are available online to help. Brushing up on your skills can take time, so plan projects well in advance if your business growth depends on them.
A Business Degree
Entrepreneurship doesn’t require formal education, but the US Census confirms that most business owners have a bachelor’s degree. Going back to school for an online business degree sharpens your business goals and expands your horizons. Choose from accounting, management, business, or communication degrees online and continue running your business while you study.
Sensible Security Features
Though most small businesses may not have a budget for an IT department, there are ways to enhance security for workers and customers. PCMag recommends internal security steps like using unique passwords, 2-step verification, and backup codes for company accounts.
On the customer-facing side, choosing the right software, limiting employee access to data, and keeping systems up to date are the basics of cyber security and protecting client information. Nothing will destroy a web-based business as fast as losing customer trust due to a cybersecurity issue.
Whether you choose to go back to school for a degree or dive head-first into DIYing systems for your business, online projects offer an impressive return on investment for your startup. Freeing up time, people, and resources saves you money and promotes growth. The best part is you can take the pieces that work for your business and adapt them as the organization grows.
Join the Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce to get access to events and other resources that will help give your business a boost in our community!