As a small business owner, navigating the world of applications and software can be a daunting undertaking. However, many apps for small businesses are available that can streamline your operations and improve your bottom line. Here are some of the best apps for small businesses and what each application does, as well as their cost.
Accounting
QuickBooks:
QuickBooks is accounting software that can help you manage finances, track expenses, and generate reports. It’s a convenient app for small business owners who want to stay organized and keep track of their financial health. The cost is approximately $30 – $200 per month.
Overall Office Management
Google Workspace:
Google Workspace is a collection of cloud-based apps structured to make productivity and team collaboration easier. It includes:
- Gmail — email
- Google Sheets — spreadsheets
- Google Docs — online word processor
- Google Chat — a messaging platform
- Google Forms — online surveys
- Google Currents — virtual bulletin board for teams communication
- Google Calendar — virtual calendar
- Google Keep — note-taking
- Google Drive — cloud storage
- Google Sites — website builder
- Google Meet — video conferencing software
- Google Slides — presentations
One good thing about Google Workspace is that it’s highly accessible. Users can access Google Workspace on mobile and desktop. All you need is an internet connection.
You don’t need to be a Google Workspace user to enjoy Google’s apps like Gmail, Docs, Calendar, Sheets, etc. They’re free and available without ever joining the Google Workspace platform. But the subscription does offer 24/7 support, more storage, and other perks. Subscriptions start at just $6 a month and go up from there. There is also a Not-for-profit subscription that starts at $3 a month.
Project management and team communications
Trello:
Trello is a project management tool that allows you to organize tasks and collaborate with team members. It’s perfect for small businesses that need to keep track of multiple projects and deadlines. An unlimited gratis version and paid options start at $5 per user per month.
Slack:
Slack is a communication tool that allows you to chat with team members, share files, and collaborate on projects. It’s a great way to keep everyone on the same page and ensure they work towards the same goals. Plans start as low as $0, yes, that’s right, free!
Zoom:
Zoom is a video conferencing tool that allows you to host virtual meetings and webinars. It’s an excellent app for small businesses that want to connect with clients and team members worldwide. Plans start at about $150 a year.
Social Media Management
Hootsuite:
Hootsuite is a social media management tool that allows you to schedule posts, track analytics, and manage multiple accounts. It’s an excellent app for small businesses that want to improve their social media presence and engage with customers. Professional plans start at $99 a month if billed annually.
Graphics and Promotions
Canva:
Canva is a handy app that allows you to easily create designs and graphics for your business. Whether you’re looking to design social media posts, logos, or flyers, this app makes it easy to create professional-looking designs without any design experience. The app offers templates, fonts, and graphics, enabling you to customize your creations to your liking. Canva is user-friendly, intuitive, and the perfect app for any small business that wants to quickly and easily create stunning visuals. Canva is free to use, but to unlock unique designs or features, you’ll need a paid membership that starts at $12.99 a month.
Mailchimp:
Mailchimp is a marketing platform that allows you to automatically construct, send, and analyze email and promo campaigns. This software offers campaign transparency, email tracking, success statistics, custom reports, and the ability to manage subscribers and un-subscribers. The cost of this tool ranges from free to 350$ every month, depending on how many users and emails you are sending out. They also offer a no-cost 30-day trial for most plans.
Scheduling and Servicing
Calendly:
Calendly lets you set schedules for all types of events. It also allows you to locate available times, add buffer times, blackout dates, and more. Also, the user-friendly interface of Calendly can integrate standard tools like Outlook for organizational optimization. The cost is free for the basic level, and pricing goes up to $8 monthly for the essentials level.
ServiceWorks:
The ServiceWorks app is a comprehensive solution that simplifies managing and tracking service requests. With its user-friendly interface, you can easily create service tickets, assign them to technicians, and track their progress in real-time.
One of the popular features of the Serviceworks app is its ability to automate the entire process, from ticket creation to closure. So you can save time and effort by eliminating the need for attention at every service lifecycle stage.
Another essential feature of this app is its ability to integrate with other business systems, such as CRM, ERP, and HR software. This integration allows you to have a single source of truth for all service-related data, making it easier to manage and report on your service operations.
In terms of cost, the Serviceworks app offers flexible pricing options to meet the needs of businesses of all sizes. So whether you’re a small startup or a large enterprise, you can choose a pricing plan that fits your budget and requirements. Plus, with no hidden fees or long-term contracts, you can rest assured that you’re getting a fair and transparent deal.
Service Works offers a 14-day free trial.
These apps can help small businesses like yours improve operations, save time, and increase their bottom line.
