New Michigan Entrepreneur? Small Business Tech You’ll Need

Starting a business in Michigan? Welcome to the club! Whether it’s the vibrant tech scene of Detroit or the bustling entrepreneurial communities in charming Northern Michigan, our state is a hotbed for innovation. But to make sure your small business can thrive, you’ll need more than a great idea—you’ll need the right tech foundation.

In a world where digital presence can make or break a venture, mastering the tech essentials is non-negotiable. This post is your guide to the must-have tech for small businesses in Michigan, from the first day of operation all the way to the big-growth numbers.

The Starting Line: Small Business Operational Tech

aerial view of woman working on business technology strategyReliable small business technology shouldn’t break the bank. The first tech you purchase for your business is an investment, and in the early days, every penny counts. Prioritize the essential operational tools that will tangibly improve efficiency and help you manage your fledgling business.

Phones, Laptops, and Internet: Fast and reliable connections are the backbone of your communication and operation.

CRM Software: Customer Relationship Management tools come in various price ranges, but all are designed to help you organize leads and keep customer data accessible.

Cloud Storage: With local hardware often limited and prone to failures, cloud storage is the safest place for your business’s digital footprint. Popular services include Dropbox, Google Drive, and Apple’s iCloud. By starting with a cloud-based foundation, your business can easily scale.

Financial Management Made Simple: Tools like QuickBooks or FreshBooks allow you to stay on top of your accounting, invoicing, and expense tracking with ease. Take time to set these up correctly and consider consulting with a local accountant to ensure compliance with Michigan’s tax laws.

Keep Your Business Safe from Hidden Threats

Don’t wait to get a handle on cybersecurity before it’s too late. The earlier you secure your small business technology, the less risk you’ll have. Basic cybersecurity steps include installing reliable antivirus software, setting up a firewall, and implementing password policies. Protect your digital assets as intently as you would your brick and mortar.

Data Backup: When you’re protecting this business you’ve worked so hard to build, there’s no such thing as too many precautions. Regular data backups are your safety net in the event of system failures, human error, or cyberattacks. 

IT Support: Investing in a solid IT support system can save you from crippling downtime. Whether you choose a local tech company that works on-site or an off-site provider, having someone on speed dial for when things go wrong is invaluable.

Beyond the Basics: Growth-Ready Technology

If your business is already growing quickly, look into these more advanced small business technology options.

Hardware and Software: If you’re expanding your team, you’ll need more devices and applications. Look for scalable options that can grow with your business without requiring a complete overhaul of your tech stack. This could look like purchasing laptops instead of desktops, or investing in cloud-based software that offers flexible pricing plans.

Next-Level Cybersecurity: The sophistication of cyberthreats grows alongside your business. Consider advanced solutions like multi-factor authentication, penetration testing, and virtual private networks to stay ahead of the curve. Encryption should be standard on any device that holds critical company data.

Communication Tools: Once your team expands or you start working with more clients, managing communication becomes increasingly complex. Consider Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) services that offer more flexibility and scalability than traditional phone lines.

Strategic Consulting and Services: Investing in an IT consultant can help you strategically align your tech with your business goals. They can provide insight into the best practices, planning for future projects, and advice on the latest technology trends.

Managing Your Tech as a Small Business Owner

Setting up your tech is just the first step. How you manage your small business technology will have long-lasting effects for your business. Here are a few routes you might consider:

On Your Own

Managing your tech in-house means you retain control over the process and hire in-house personnel. However, as demands grow, you might find yourself buried under an IT to-do list with little time left to focus on your core business activities and a shortage of diverse expertise.

Hiring an MSP

A managed service provider (MSP) could be the middle ground you need. They can handle the complex IT stuff, leaving you to run your business. With different levels of service and cost, you can find a solution that fits your immediate needs and your budget.

Co-Managed Support

You don’t have to give up all control. You can partner with an MSP and maintain a hand in your IT management. Co-managed support allows your in-house team to keep the tasks they enjoy while outsourcing the ones that stress you out.

Build Your Business with Common Angle

Small business technology can be more than just a foundation for good business; it can be the competitive edge you need to stay ahead. With the right mix of tech, you’ll have more time and resources to grow your Michigan business into a successful enterprise.

If you’re interested in learning more about how technology can benefit your small business in Michigan, get in touch with Common Angle! Our expert team can guide you through the process of setting up and managing your tech so you can focus on what matters most—building and growing your business.