How Can I Keep My Technology Costs Down?

To keep costs down, begin by figuring out what technologies you really need and how advanced they should be. The technologies you invest in should add value to your business and give you a return on your investment, even if it's an intangible return, such as customer satisfaction. Calculating the total cost of ownership prior to making any purchases, including potential upgrades and additional features, will help you stay within your budget.

Then consider other factors. If it's hardware you're after, can you find it second-hand? And if it's new equipment you need, can you lease instead of buy? You can buy multiple products from a single vendor for possible discounts. And don't forget freeware and free trials, especially for software; they're a great way to save cash.

For more on cutting costs, be sure to read Save Money with Volume Software Licensing for Your Small Business.