Thankfully, with everything turning digital, we can also see the rise of useful digital tools. These tools can help you automate a large portion of your tasks, leaving you with more time to focus on the bigger picture.
And that is exactly what we are talking about today - the best digital tools for small businesses. Let’s dig in!
1. SEO essentials
Your business needs an online presence, and search engine optimization is a big part of it. SEO includes a bit of everything - from the content your business is offering to the design and accessibility of your website. But the main SEO catch is knowing how to research and use relevant keywords.
There are tools out there (e.g., Yoast) that will help you track down and use the best keywords from your business sector. Paid tools offer extra features and more automation, but free ones will do just fine if you’re just starting out.
2. Cloud data storage for businesses
Every bit of data your business uses is immensely valuable and thus needs to be stored properly. On top of that, if you handle client data in any form (even just login data), you should probably think about a designated data storage system.
Free mainstream options out there (e.g., Google Drive) can help you get started. But, once you start scaling up, you’re going to need a better business data storage solution. A designated cloud storage for business is optimal because you can access everything remotely, and you don’t have to worry about security thanks to encryption.
3. Project management
Having all your plans, assets, tasks, and goals gathered in a single app is a game-changer. In the last decade, we saw the rise of all sorts of different board-style project management tools. Whether it’s a Kanban board (like Trello) or any other approach, you’ll get a clear overview of your operations.
Another great feature of project management tools is that you can invite your team to collaborate. You can assign tasks and checklists and even integrate the project board with your other digital tools.
4. Team communication
Yes, you can communicate through email or even through the project management boards we mentioned above. But, clear and concise business communication requires a fail-proof system. Communication tools (like MS Teams or Slack) allow you to reach out to your team members and assign team-specific tasks.
5. Design and visuals
As marketing is an integral part of any business, you will have to think about your visual identity and representation. If you’re looking to cover your social media content creation, there’s a plethora of apps (e.g., Canva) that can help you.
Additionally, a large number of digital creation tools offer their stock pool of photos and visual assets. Of course, the best ones hide behind a subscription, but the free versions offer a lot as well.
6. Analytics and performance trackers
Lastly, you need a way to measure and track results. Google Analytics is excellent for beginners. The tool analyzes your website’s traffic and the way users interact with your content, and this data can help you identify the most successful strategies to use and the changes that need to be made.
In conclusion
Small businesses often have limited budgets, especially when it comes to digital tools. But if you want to use the budget you DO have, this list should be more than enough to get you started.
If you’re not sure which tools you need, make a list of the tasks that take up most of your time in a workday and automate them with digital tools.
A nice digital tool can sometimes make or break a brand, so choose carefully and start reaping the rewards of the digital age ASAP!
This article was written in cooperation with Scale Pro Agency