The UK is one of the most entrepreneurial nations, with increasing numbers of startups entering the business world on a weekly basis. However, startups need to be smart when it comes to cash, and will generally want solutions which offer flexibility, affordability and simplicity in one simple package.
Ultimately, decision-makers at startups are short on time and finances, which means software with a user-friendly interface, multi-purpose features and time-saving intuitiveness are all highly sought-after. With this in mind, we’ve compiled a list of three essential software packages that no startup or new SME should be without.
1) Project management: Trello
If your team are working remotely or simply need an easy way to collaborate and bounce ideas off one another in real-time, Trello could be the solution you’ve been looking for. It’s essentially a project management tool which offers a simple and intuitive way to monitor, discuss and actively complete almost all business tasks. Whether you’re managing clients, seeking to develop your business, coding software specifically for your startup or hiring new staff, Trello comes highly recommended. Where other project management tools can appear clunky or otherwise lack focus, Trello allows for quick and easy discussion and fluid collaboration.
2) Admin: Google Apps for Work
In a world with expensive subscription models for administrative software, its easy to forget that Google now offers solutions for most basic IT needs. Email, spreadsheets, word processing, online chat, file storage and secure authentication are all staples of Google’s current offer. In many respects Google’s office tools are superior to its subscription-model cloud-based equivalents, as file types can be opened in a range of third-party applications. Ultimately, Google’s administrative tools integrate well with other software suites, and for the price-conscious startup looking to keep costs down, it’s pretty hard to argue with the price tag: totally free.
3) Tax software: BTC Software Solution Suite
All small business decision-makers understand the importance of effective tax software. In a busy working environment, it makes sense to have a simple and intuitive set of tools to ensure tax compliance – particularly when business leaders are juggling multiple roles in the infancy of a company.
Most startups won’t have the capital to employ a full-time bookkeeper – and with the BTC Software Solution Suite, they won’t have to. Tax, accounts and practice management are made simple, and with cloud/desktop versions and seamless integration with other leading software/APIs, this robust and reliable solution helps businesses to be compliant with complete peace of mind.