Setting Up Your First IT System

3. Office Benefits

With the right software, your IT can increase the efficiency of your business's internal operations. Check that software can do exactly what you want it to, before you buy.

3.1 Email provides a fast and inexpensive way of communicating with everyone, including people within your business.

• Email is now as essential as post and fax, particularly for businesses selling to other businesses.

3.2 Word processing software allows you to produce professional-looking documents and letters quickly and easily.

• Features such as automatic spell-checking can improve your accuracy and efficiency.

3.3 Basic accounting software can simplify book-keeping and automate VAT returns and similar tasks.

• Payroll software makes paying staff easier, automating repetitive and sometimes difficult calculations. There are also customer service benefits.

3.4 Stock control software allows you to predict buying or manufacturing needs to help drive efficiency.

3.5 The Internet is a great source of business and market information.