The essential tech stack for every non tech business
You may be running or starting a non tech business, but that doesn’t mean you won’t have to use a computer or apps on your phone to get ahead.
A solid tech stack allows you to work ON your business, not IN your business.
Just look at local service businesses in your area. The ones that are growing use CRM softwares, payroll management software, VOIP phone systems, etc. The businesses that still use a fax machine are dying out.
“Simply put, your job is to prepare yourself and your business for growth.”
― Michael E. Gerber
Without further ado, here are some of the must haves in your tech stack.
Airtable
Airtable should be every business owner’s best friend. It’s basically a super powered excel where you can create all sorts of customized data sets.
Things you can use Airtable for:
CRM
Project Management
Accounting
Invoice Tracking
Inventory Tracking
Customer Service
$0-$20 a month
Zapier
Zapier is a tool that automates menial tasks and can save you tons of time. It integrates across multiple apps and platforms. For example, you can set up a to do list in Airtable, and when you check your box to mark it as done, Zapier can send an email to a client notifying them their product is ready.
$0-$50 monthly
POS Payment Processor
A point of sale(POS) payment processor is a must have. There are a lot of good payment processors out there, and the best one for you is going to depend on how your payment process goes. For online checkouts, Stripe is excellent. If you’re collecting payments in person you can also take credit cards through Stripe.
Venmo is also a simple way to transact with customers. Most people have Venmo, but you may get the odd person who will want to pay through a credit card or who doesn’t have Venmo.
Charges 2.9% of every transaction
VOIP
VOIP stands for voice over internet provider. It’s a bad idea to start a business using your personal cell phone as the number for customers to contact, especially when it is so easy to get another number.
Google Voice is the cheapest and easiest solution. You can start off with using it for personal use and it will be free, but as you add more lines and customization you’ll need to upgrade to the Business plan.
Aircall is another great option. There are lots of ways you can customize it to your needs but it is fairly pricey.
$0-$50 per user
All told this tech stack could cost you less than $100 a month, but will be so key in helping you to grow your business. Staying organized and efficient is essnetial to business success.