Setting Up a Basic IT System

4. Software

In order to get the most from your IT system, you must choose the right software for your business.

4.1 The operating system is the basic software on the computer.

• The most common operating system is Microsoft Windows.
• Most PCs will come with Microsoft Windows as the pre-installed operating system. Unless you have good reason not to, it usually makes sense to use this as your staff are likely to be familiar with it.
• If you have a server, that will require an operating system, too. There are several options. See Network servers.

4.2 An office suite is a collection of programs allowing you to carry out common tasks.

• It will usually include word processing, spreadsheet and presentation software, plus email and calendar applications.
• The most common office suite is Microsoft Office.
• A good alternative to Microsoft Office is OpenOffice. This is free and offers many of the features of Microsoft Office. However, it is not industry standard, and you may experience problems transferring files to other systems.

4.3 Accounting and payroll software can make managing your finances much easier.

• See and .

4.4 Stock-control software allows you to predict buying or manufacturing needs to help drive efficiency, which in turn can provide customer service benefits.

4.5 Customer relationship management software allows you to log each contact you have with a customer.

• This information can be shared between everyone in your business. Whoever speaks to the customer will have instant access to the full history.