I am technologically challenged–not necessarily in terms of how to create and save a file or how to use certain software programs, but definitely when it comes to understanding exactly how computers work. I don’t know my hard drive from my megabytes from a memory card. I’m not even entirely sure what the difference between a disk, cd, dvd, and zip drive is (thank goodness for teenagers)–but I am learning that when I think that I’m running out of capability, I might only need an upgrade–not an entirely new system for my home business.
I have a tendency to just assume–since technology is advancing so quickly, that as soon as I take a computer or phone or fax machine out of the box, it has become obsolete. This is not necessarily the case, I’ve been told by a couple of IT friends–often, you can upgrade your existing stuff instead of replacing it all together. This is good news for any of us with a limited budget or an eye on the environment.
But, how do you know? Unless you are a technological wiz yourself, you are going to have to find a trusted professional or mentor to help. A trip to the computer store (if you feel confident that you won’t come back out with $2,000 worth of purchases) is one way to gather knowledge, but finding a neutral person is better. Look for computer consulting businesses in your area that cater to small businesses. These folks are used to working with small operations with small budgets and helping them optimize their technology. It may turn out that upgrading your software, increasing the memory on your hard drive, or even getting a new or supplementary hard drive is what you need–or you might just need to clean out some of those excess files and games and things stashed away on your computer!
See Also: Purchasing a Computer for Your Home Business Needs
Are You Optimizing Your Home Business Computer?
Should I Turn My Computer Off Overnight?