Efficiency is crucial when it comes to running a business. This is especially true for start-ups, and even saving a few minutes a day can give you an edge over the competition. This is exactly why there are now so many business productivity apps on the market. But which of the bunch are the most effective? We have reviewed many and believe that the following 7 apps are the best for saving your business time and money.
Buffer
If your business has a social media marketing component, then you know how hard it is to manage numerous pages and constantly provide updates. With this app, you can schedule status updates, tweets and other content to be posted on a schedule of your choosing. It also has the ability to manage multiple accounts and support large amounts of loaded custom content.
Google Drive
Many underestimate Google Drive as just cloud storage, but it can also can be used as a portable spreadsheet maker and word processor in a pinch. With a small portable keyboard, Google Drive can act as a mini-laptop when needed. With fast uploading, a dynamic file manager and the ability to export stored files in MS Word or Excel format, it is a must have. It also acts as a shared network for your team.
Evernote
Evernote is essentially an electronic filing cabinet. You can take quick notes at a conference, meeting or during a phone call, then store your notes about upcoming projects in this modern-day version of a Trapper Keeper. You can even clip items from the web including audio, videos and pictures. Not only is it safe and secure, but it is easy to share notes with other users.
Dropbox
Many use Dropbox as a storage center for multiple types of large files. Some also use it to back up their files and photos, or use the interface to share files with those that they are collaborating with on a project. It automatically downloads media files on your computer and devices when they are sent to you, and it even works offline. It makes a great alternative to e-mail for file sharing, since you can send larger files and a greater amount at a time.
JotNot Scanner
This state-of-the-art app turns your phone into a multi-page scanner. You can scan business cards and receipts and save them as PDF files. Then you can e-mail scanned items or fax them directly from your phone. You can even use the app in conjunction with Evernote or Dropbox to share scans with others.
MiniBooks by FreshBooks
MiniBooks is a mobile version of FreshBooks that easily syncs within the latter to ensure accuracy. Create invoices for clients while on the run, or you can also view past invoices that you’ve already sent (if you have a doubt about anything). You can also use the time tracker so that you can account for the time spent in meetings or collaborating with a client. You could easily turn those hours into invoices.
When you download these apps, you will see that the time you save while conducting business justifies their daily use. Saving time in business, whether it’s a few minutes or hours, eventually adds up to more money in your pocket. That is why streamlining any daily process is well worth the effort.