Technology

As if running a small business wasn't hard enough there's also the nagging and constant requirement to keep up to date with new technology.

When I first started in business my 'tools' comprised of a pocket calculator (scientific I think it was - not that I ever needed to make a 'scientific' calculation), an A4 analysis pad, a set of 4 pens in different colours, a pencil, an eraser, and a pencil sharpener.

Now I have a networked PC, a laptop, a smart phone, a phone system with an automated menu option, a whole raft of sophisticated software and very little need to ever use a pen.

I expect that in another 20 years time there will be a newer, even more 'efficient' way of doing things.

One of the big challenges these days for a small business owner is keeping up with all of this, both in terms of time and with financial investment, whilst not losing focus of your business.