THE Complete Software Stack Every Small Business Needs 🤫

Summary

In this video, a software consulting business shares the exact tools they use to run their eight-person operation, saving viewers time and money in choosing the right software. The video covers four foundational tools for business stability, four financial tools for managing money, and three operational tools for team efficiency. Tools like Google Workspace, Dashlane, Copper, and Mercury are recommended for security, productivity, and financial management. It also discusses project management, meeting scheduling, email communication, and customer support tools, offering practical advice for streamlining day-to-day business operations.

Takeaways

• 😀 Google Workspace is the preferred choice for most businesses due to its widespread integration and ease of use, especially if you're starting a new business.
• 😀 Dashlane is recommended for secure password management, but for more technical users, 1Password may be a better fit.
• 😀 For small businesses, Folk and Copper are the best CRM tools, with Folk being more user-friendly and Copper offering deeper integrations with Google Workspace.
• 😀 If using Microsoft 365, consider PipeDrive or Folk as your CRM solution.
• 😀 A virtual mailbox, like Stable, is ideal for businesses operating remotely, as it offers mail scanning and integration with tools like Slack.
• 😀 Mercury is the best business bank account option for its sleek interface and robust integration with accounting tools, offering FDIC insurance up to $5 million.
• 😀 QuickBooks is a commonly used but outdated accounting tool. Kick, an AI-powered bookkeeping tool, is a better option for digital businesses seeking automation.
• 😀 Gusto is recommended for payroll software as it simplifies payroll processing and integrates well with QuickBooks.
• 😀 Expensify, RAMP, and Bill Spend are the best expense management tools, with Bill Spend being the most friendly for small businesses.
• 😀 Motion is a unique project management tool that helps businesses manage tasks, availability, and capacity effectively, unlike other tools like Asana or Monday.
• 😀 Superhuman is a highly efficient email tool that enhances email productivity with features like AI-powered email categorization and easy team collaboration.

Q & A

What is the main purpose of the video?

The video aims to share the exact software tools used by a consulting business to help viewers save time and money by avoiding the wrong tools and providing a guide to the most effective tools for business operations.

Why is Google Workspace recommended over Microsoft 365?

Google Workspace is recommended because most modern software apps prioritize Google first, offering better compatibility and ease of use with login features like 'login with Google.' This makes it a preferable choice for small businesses.

What are the drawbacks of relying on browsers or paper for password management?

Relying on browsers or paper for password management is not secure, as it may lead to using the same password for multiple accounts, which increases the risk of a security breach.

What is Dashlane, and why is it recommended?

Dashlane is a password manager recommended for its simplicity and user-friendly interface. It helps businesses manage passwords securely without needing to rely on less secure methods like browsers or written notes.

Which CRM tools are suggested for small businesses?

For small businesses, the recommended CRM tools are Folk and Copper. Folk is recommended for its simplicity and ease of use, while Copper is better for businesses looking for deeper integration with Google Workspace.

What is Stable, and why is it useful for remote businesses?

Stable is a virtual mailbox service that helps remote businesses manage their important mail. It scans incoming mail and sends notifications via email or Slack, helping businesses stay organized and receive mail digitally.

What are the advantages of using Mercury for business banking?

Mercury is a modern, user-friendly business bank that offers FDIC insurance up to $5 million, integrates with accounting software, and has no fees, making it a great choice for small businesses.

Why is Kick recommended over QuickBooks for bookkeeping?

Kick is recommended over QuickBooks because it's more user-friendly, especially for digital or service-based businesses. It automates bookkeeping processes and integrates easily with payment systems like PayPal and Stripe, saving time compared to QuickBooks.

What payroll software is recommended for small businesses?

Gusto is the recommended payroll software for small businesses. It is easy to use, integrates with QuickBooks, and ensures payroll is managed seamlessly without hassle.

What is the role of project management tools, and why is Motion recommended?

Project management tools help businesses manage tasks, deadlines, and team workloads. Motion is recommended because it integrates task management with scheduling, considering team capacity and meetings, making it more effective in planning and execution.