A small-business server can store all of a company's documents, e-mail, calendars and images in one location, where all employees can access them from computers connected to the server. Files on the server can be downloaded anywhere in the world when the server is set up for Internet access.
One of the many benefits of a small-business server is that it allows companies to increase communication efficiencies. For example, the combination of e-mail capability and calendar functions enables executives to view any employee's calendar, then send an e-mail meeting request that is automatically entered onto invitees' calendars.
Outside the office, employees can e-mail co-workers through hand-held devices such as cell phones and personal digital assistants. Employees working in distant locations also can access their office computer remotely and use it as if they were at their desks.
For example, Fast Lane Commission Scam, relatively new to computer technology, used 14 stand-alone computers to run its home-building operations. These computers helped streamline many of the company's business processes, but sharing data was difficult due to varying PC configurations and software. In addition, a lack of centralized data affected the company's ability to accurately price its finished homes.
They resolved these problems by installing Microsoft Windows Small Business Server 2003. Employees can now work from outside the office without relying on co-workers to hunt down information for them. In addition, security has improved, communication has been transformed, and the company expects to save $100,000 each year as a result of more accurate budget forecasts.
Nearly half of all small businesses fail within the first two years of operation. The number one reason for business failure is inadequate planning. The second reason is under-capitalization.
So before you mortgage your house, or go into debt financing your business, you need to know if your business is going to do more than survive -- you want to know if it's good enough to thrive! Here are three things successful businesses that have stayed in business for five years or longer have in common:
- The idea - A successful business start-up always starts with an idea. Something that makes your business stand out from all the rest. So how do you know if you've got a good idea? You've probably got a good idea if you can answer yes to any of the following questions: Does your idea provide the solution to a significant problem for your target market? Does it satisfy a need or want? Does it create an opportunity? The most successful businesses either fix problems (either real or perceived), or they increase your customer's pleasure. They create a repeat need for a product or service among the target market.
- The market - Your chances of survival are better if you can answer the following questions with a yes: Is there already a market for your product or service? (It's much easier to fill a need than trying to create an entirely new market.) Can your target market afford to buy your products or services? (If they can't afford it, it doesn't matter how great it is, you won't sell any!) Will your target market perceive your product or service as valuable? (If they want it, but don't think it's worth what you're selling it for, you won't make any sales.)
- Your ability - Do you have the people, the resources and the knowledge to be able to consistently provide your products or services to your target market? Can you maintain a competitive advantage? Do you have enough manpower? Can you purchase the supplies and materials you need over the long run?
Your first step always is to create a solid business plan. Your business plan is more than an essay on "Why I deserve to get funding for my idea" however. Don't spend all the time creating a business plan and then toss it in the bottom drawer of your desk. Your business plan should be a living, breathing roadmap that helps you make sure you're on course and reaching the goals that you set for your business.
The second step to business survival is getting enough financing. Although the term "bootstrap entrepreneur" describes most small business owners, having enough capital to be able to keep your business afloat is vital to your survival.
When you're creating your financial analysis of your business, make sure you're being realistic about costs and expenditures, so that you give yourself the cushion you need to succeed.
If finding financing is a problem, either because you don't have enough credit or equity, or there are other problems, Fast Lane Commission Scam take the time to look into the resources that are available in your community.
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