When looking at some of the best slogans in the tech space, it’s hard to beat Apple’s “There’s an app for that.” Apple rolled that one out in 2009 in an iPhone 3G commercial. The message was heard loud and clear. Whether you want something for social media or the weather, productivity or stocks, news, or something else, there are 6 types of software all startups need.
But it’s not just about downloading software on your smartphone, tablet, or other consumer device for fun and games. You need to find the right tools for your startup — and odds are what you need is out there.
Without the right tools of the trade, you’ll have to work harder than necessary. The right software for your startup, meanwhile, means you can work smarter rather than harder.
Here are six types of software that all startups need to run their operations like well-oiled machines.
1. Fleet Maintenance Software
If you have company vehicles, fleet maintenance software is a must-have. It’s an application that’ll help you keep your cars, trucks, and SUVs in good shape so they stay on the road.
It’s sometimes hard enough to stay on top of maintenance and repairs for a single vehicle. However, you might have even more difficulty if your business has multiple vehicles.
Fleet maintenance software can send reminders when maintenance or repairs are needed, ensure you can easily check and see what’s been done and what needs to be done, and much more. Considering the cost and importance of company vehicles, it pays to invest in proper upkeep.
2. Project Management Software
Gartner says that 85% of businesses actively leverage the power of project management applications. It adds that the market is on pace to achieve a $7 billion valuation by 2026.
All companies can benefit from project management software to assign tasks, collaborate, keep workers accountable, and make employees more efficient and productive. There are tons of project management platforms available, so your best bet is to check out some options and find one that meets the needs of your business.
The right project management software will streamline your operations and ensure your employees can come together and get things done.
3. Customer Relationship Management
Your startup also needs a good customer relationship management (CRM) platform to boost customer service, improve client retention, increase sales, gain customer insights, streamline internal communication, and more. It’s the sort of tool that no business should be without.
4. Cloud Storage
You can’t overlook the importance of cloud storage solutions. OneDrive, Google Drive, and Dropbox are just a few options available.
The last thing you need is to lose everything if there’s a system failure at your company. Whether because of hackers, user error, or system failure, you need cloud storage to save and backup important files and documents for your company. It’ll provide peace of mind and protection.
5. Accounting Software
Accounting software is another type of application your small business needs. Don’t make the mistake of doing bookkeeping manually. The old-fashioned way of doing accounting is inefficient and more susceptible to human errors that can cause headaches with the taxman.
Leveraging the power of accounting software, you’ll find it easier to do bookkeeping, tax preparation, invoicing, and other accounting tasks.
6. Cybersecurity Software
Businesses, big or small, must be on guard because of the risks online. From phishing attacks to ransomware, from malware infections to insider threats, and from distributed denial-of-service attacks to social engineering, businesses face many potential problems.
TechTarget reports that the yearly average cost of cybercrime could reach $23 trillion worldwide in 2027 versus $8.4 trillion in 2022. Given the threats, cybersecurity software is a must-have rather than a nice-to-have.
When considering the software needs for your startup, ensure you have these six types. Of course, your business may need other applications. Your goal should be to get the tools your business needs for success.
