So What IT do you need when going solo?

[Glenn Wallace]

Hi,

If your system includes PC computers I have found recompute.com.au have great prices, have a good range to choose from on their website and they are very helpful.

The are located in Bankstown Sydney and deliver Australia Wide.

Regards,

Glenn

[BrightSpark]

I suggest you get in touch with a friendly local computer shop, staying away from the HN's and the like. Also buying a branded system doesn't mean that you won't get a lemon either. If you talk with your local person you can decide if you want to go a "no Frills" system, similar quality as a branded name or they can use even better quality products. The local bloke will also be able to deliver and setup your system as well. By getting it done right the first time you will save heaps over time.

[Heidi Price]

Originally Posted by BrightSpark

Also buying a branded system doesn't mean that you won't get a lemon either..................l. By getting it done right the first time you will save heaps over time.

So tru BrightSpark!

The only computer we do not have problems with (out of 4) is our purpse-built one. The other 3 are big-name brands and seem to all go out in sympthy together

Heidi

[SteveDavidson]

It does very much depend on your business requirements.

As a consultant, 90% of my business is mental. I can pretty much work from any computer and carry my entire set of documentation templates around on a USB chip the size of my fingernail. Practically any PC/printer combo will work for me.

Other businesses might need computers for all kinds of things. Are you in retail? Are you tracking stock? Are you in IT services, maybe running domains and websites? If you're in graphic design, will you need good quality screens and a PC with lots of graphics grunt and storage space?

Are you going to need a laptop to take on the road? What about backup systems? Offsite storage? Security aspects?

Do you want/need to host your own website and email server? Will you need an FTP service? Are you going to need a fast internet connection, if you pull a lot of information off the net?

And then there's software. Do you work with client files? Are you going to need compatible applications? Are there industry standards?

Are you going to want/need a web-based ordering system making 24/7 sales for you? How about an in-stock indicator? Should you have an eBay storefront as well?

The answers will be different depending if you're selling art, making custom origami, or booking children's birthday parties. One way to get a handle on requirements is to see what other providers in your or similar industries are using, and modify that to your own particular setup.

Whichever situation applies, it'll generally be business driven for anything above and beyond the stock standard PC-with-internet used for keeping basic records, doing research, and sending/receiving email.

[No mans land]

If you are asking these questions then you may have little knowledge of running a business. A small business course is worth its weight in gold.
Basic book keeping is a must.

IT will depend very very much on what business you are stepping into.

http://www.sbdc.com.au/

[Heidi Price]

Originally Posted by No mans land

If you are asking these questions then you may have little knowledge of running a business.

There is an old saying that the only stupid question is the one not asked


Heidi

[No mans land]

>>There is an old saying that the only stupid question is the one not asked<

Yes that is entirely true. Its definitely not a stupid question. A very very good one.

Even more so in a forum where people pull the information out of the following content applicable to them.

People wishing to start a business should have good understanding of accounting and associated infrastructure prior to starting.

[Heidi Price]

Originally Posted by No mans land

People wishing to start a business should have good understanding of accounting and associated infrastructure prior to starting.

And yet some of the most successful business people have no formal training or education.

What they do have is an instinctive understanding of how to make a dollar work as hard as possible

Oh, and the ability to see a setback as an opportunity


Heidi

[No mans land]

And yet some of the most successful business people have no formal training or education.

I hope I haven't been misinterpreted a condescending git?

[Heidi Price]

Originally Posted by No mans land

I hope I haven't been misinterpreted a condescending git?

Nah No mans land - hehe I just opinionated LOL

I have formal qualifications - but have learnt MUCH more in the real world. Especially from my Grandfather who spent a life-time wheeling and dealing

So while I see the benefits of study etc, for some people its just not necessary

Heidi