First let me mention all the things you do not need to purchase when you start an online business. You do not need shelving, a cash register, electricity, gas, water, fire protection system, a burglar alarm, etc. The list goes on and on. You already have some of those in your home so you will not need them for your business.
Your computer will be the most important piece of equipment you will need for your online business. A good printer is also necessary. A scanner and a digital camera would also be nice but are not necessary to get you started. Your computer needs to be in good working condition and large enough to handle a large volume of e-mail and orders. It will also need to have the capacity to build and revise your Web site. If you do not already have a computer, you can expect to pay between $1,000 and $5,000 to get started. It will pay to purchase the best setup you can afford at the start so you do not have to purchase an upgrade later on. You do not want your computer system to slow down your operation.
Software is another important area where you do not want to skimp on your needs. You are going to be in the information processing and gathering business so you will need equipment such as the following:
1. A Web page editor that makes it easy for you to format text, add images, and design Web pages without having to master HTML.
2. If you decide to create your own business Web site, you will need graphics software that allows you to draw and edit images.
3. A good storefront software program that makes it easy to create an online business and get your web pages on the Web.
4. You will need Real Simple Syndication (RSS) software for formatting Web site content in the form of eXtensible Markup Language (XML) files so it can be quickly and easily read by your customers.
5. You will want an efficient way of keeping accounting information that helps with billing and calculating sales tax data.
Just because you are able to create Web pages and promote your company does not mean you have to. You are often better off hiring others to do things that you may not be as strong in or that require a great deal of time. Hiring technical experts who can help move you in the right direction may be better than going it alone. Choose these experts carefully and check out other projects that they have worked on. You want to get the best for your money as creating Web pages and purchasing systems and databases can be considerably expensive for the beginning business.
Finding a business partner is often a good thing to do. Be sure that the person you select as a partner complements your own abilities. If you are good at sales and public relations, make sure they are good at writing and Web design. Other team members are often family members, friends, and neighbors. They need to be reliable and committed to the project. Keep the following things in mind when selecting team members:
1. Someone who has experience with computers is a good pick.
2. Always check references and ask for samples of their work.
3. Pick friendly people who have the talents that you are looking for.
These may not be all the things you need to get started. Your site may require additional equipment depending on the specific purpose of the Web site. Remember that you do not have to do it all yourself.
Joe Dockter (OldManJoe)
http://www.sharjollc.com http://www.makemoneywitholdmanjoe.com
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