Build an Internet Store

Posted on April 1, 2025 by Angus Jones

In 2019, online shopping represented around 10% of total sales, and this figure is continuing to explode. Watch your local suburban street and see the stream of delivery vans parading past. In this guide, we will look at your various options and what you should consider when building an internet store.

Selling and buying online is known as e-commerce, online trading or online shopping. As a small business, you could offer e-commerce on your own website, someone else’s website, or social media. The good news is that building an internet store has never been easier, with various internet providers providing templates and tools for novices to be up and running quickly.

WHY should I build an internet store?

Setting up a brick-and-mortar store in a good location to attract customers is expensive and has a lot of risks; however, selling online is the opposite. Alternatively, expanding the sales of your existing business online can bring many advantages. These include:

Allows you to sell to a much wider audience than those who could visit your place of business
Your business is always open, and information is available to hopefully help customers make a buying decision
Fewer sales staff will be needed
Helps promote your brand, your products and services
Increases customer engagement

WHAT are the online store options?

Most of us have bought or sold something personally on eBay, and that is e-commerce. As a business,s you have three potential e-commerce channels which could be used individually or together:

Online marketplace (eBay, Amazon, Gumtree)
- Easy to set up and process payments, but at the cost of paying commissions
Website (e-commerce on your website)
- Can use a template/store builder or build from scratch
- More flexibility and no commissions to 3^rd party
Social media (Facebook marketplace)
- Similar to the online marketplace, but not as advanced

Before you select an e-commerce optio,n be sure you can answer the following questions:

What products and services do you want to sell online, and is there a market?
What is your competitive advantage?
By what methods will you accept payment? (credit card, PayPal, etc)
Do you need to collect personal data? What steps will you take to protect consumers’ privacy? (see our guide on Privacy and Protecting Personal Data)
What level of customer service will you offer, and how can you be contacted?

HOW to choose the right e-commerce platform?

Your choice can make or break your business. So take the time to compare your options.

From our three e-commerce options, you need to decide if you will sell simultaneously on a website and marketplaces. If you decide to have your own website, it is far easier, faster, and cheaper to use a template/website builder than to custom-design/build. For a small business starting of,f we recommend the website builder option available from various hosting and specialist companies (Google search – online store). When comparing, consider these factors against your needs:

Cost- How much per month compared to the features you get? (Bundled with hosting, it can be less than $20 a month)
Templates/store builder options? Do the available themes and structures suit? Consider how you will integrate graphics, colour schemes, and content (words).
If a template is not suitable, can you afford a custom build? (A custom build can easily exceed $10,000)
Shipping—How does the shipping/delivery process make your life and the customers’ lives as easy as possible? Also, see our essential guide on freight solutions.
Security? It is unlikely that a hosted e-commerce store will not be properly secured by a vendor, but always keep this in mind.
Uptime and service guarantees—This refers to the provider’s unexpected downtime. Do they provide any guarantees, and what compensation, if any, will they provide if you lose a day of trading?
Marketing your store – Does your hosting vendor offer marketing tools and services to assist you?
Discounts and promotions – If you plan to offer these, how does the solution align with your plans?
Smartphone management of site – Can you administer the site if required from the football game on a Saturday?
Marketplace integration – Is there an automated selling option across online marketplaces, like eBay?
Do they offer a payment gateway? How much do they charge as a percentage to accept credit card payments?
Seamless integration – Can other software applications like CRM or your Accounting Package seamlessly connect to your e-commerce store?

Be sure to take the solution for a test drive by:

Trialing the platform—Most offer free trials and demos, which will enable you to understand what you need to do to make it happen, but, more importantly, see the experience from a customer perspective. You should upload a few products, see what themes are available, and then buy something as if you were a customer.
Consider calling the company’s sales and support desks and asking them a few questions. This will give you a good indication of the experience you will have if you proceed.
Check out any online reviews, and if possible, talk to someone already using the solution.

HINTS on running your e-commerce store

If you sell to other stores or end customers today, will the way you sell in this new e-commerce store upset your existing customers?
Ensure you manage your inventory well. You cannot sell something that is out of stock.
Offer specials on the slow-moving stock to reduce or clear inventory.
Some products may not make sense to sell online, such as heavy or very large items, as the shipping cost may be too high.
Make sure your freight partner is reliable, otherwise you wear the blame.
Existing customers are your most valuable. New customers are the hardest to get.
Carefully consider how your website looks. Is it professional? Is it easy for customers to find what they want?
Ensure your site doesn’t feature anything controversial, such as a seductive man or lady (unless you are in that business).
Set up your products or services in categories and have descriptions that are easy to read and appealing.
Ensure pages are not too cluttered and distracting.
Consider including customer reviews.
Technical
- Fast page load speed keeps customers on your site.
- Comparisons of products are useful to customers.
- The enlarged view option lets a customer see your product better.
- Responsive design enables the site to present well on a smartphone.

Your internet store is now built and published on the internet, but do not expect people to swamp it on its first day. It will take some time before search engines like Google find it, and as nobody knows your new domain name, they will not yet find it organically. In a separate guide, we will cover SEO, Search Engine Optimisation and SEM, Search Engine Marketing. Put simply these are ways to make your business found more easily on the web and tactics you can use to promote your business online.

SUMMARY – Build an internet store to grow sales

Building an internet store can put you in business faster and cheaper than a traditional brick-and-mortar store. If you are already in business, it can grow your sales, making your offering available to a much larger audience.

In conclusion, keep the customer experience at the top of mind—from the ease of use to how it looks—and set yourself up to succeed from the start.

Selling a small business

Posted on January 25, 2022 by Angus Jones

When we start a small business, we all dream of how much money we will make and at some point, we hope to sell it and enjoy the high life. The selling process can be overwhelming and time-consuming; this guide will explain the basics and help you decide how to move forward.

Selling your business is the process of putting your business up for sale by an owner or owners. Just as you needed a plan to get into business, you’ll need a plan to get out of it.

WHY are you selling your business?

Selling your business is a very emotional decision, and you must have thought this through. Remember that the first question a prospective buyer is going to ask is, why are you selling?

If you are selling because of financial stress, an alternative may be to speak with your accountant or business advisor first.

When selling, you must also decide exactly what are you selling?

Do you want to sell everything?
- Do you want to walk away?
- Are you prepared to stay on for a period to help with the handover?
Are there any assets you do not want to sell? for example, a car
Does the sale include your registered business name?
- Will you agree not to compete?
Do you have some business’ intellectual property (IP) that you want to sell?
If you own property associated with the business will you keep that?

WHAT is the value of your business?

Like selling a house, you probably don’t know its true value. If selling, you will need to value it, which cannot include your emotional attachment. Otherwise, you could easily price yourself out of the market. T value and sell a business you can attempt to do it yourself, or you can get professional advice from the likes of your accountant, business advisor, or a business broker.

Beyond understanding the financials, you will need to consider goodwill, including the intellectual property of the business, any plant and equipment, including digital assets of the business, and any stock or inventory that the business owns.

There is no single business valuation method, instead of a number that can be used singularly or combined. S e of the more popular include:

Book value – Subtract liabilities from the assets. For example, if you have $100,000 in assets and $30,000 in liabilities, the value of your business is $70,000.
Return on Investment (ROI) – uses the formula ROI = (net annual profit/selling price) x 100. If the selling price was $100,000 and your annual net profit was $10,000 your ROI would be 10%. Thus a buyer could expect to get 10% back on their money based on an investment of $100,000.
Market value – This is how much someone is prepared to pay for your business. It is market and industry-specific so it is worth researching your industry.
Goodwill – A business may only be worth the reputation of one employee and if that is you, and you leave, goodwill is what the business is now worth. Customer loyalty and brand reputation are usually factors that affect this.
Cost of creating from scratch – current cost if you had to start the business today.
Future profits – If you can predict what future profits may look like this can significantly increase the price of business if on an upward trajectory.

Note if you have not paid attention and not kept accurate records of your business, this will impact the perceived value of your business.

HOW do I sell my small business?

There are several ways to sell businesses, but the most common is through a broker. A broker will help with the whole process, including valuations, marketing, negotiations, and final sales. Some internet solutions charge a set fee, and others charge a 7-10% commission on the sale price. Mar ting costs are normally in addition. A directory of business brokers can be found here.

To sell your business, you will need to provide the following information:

Financials: Tax returns (3 years), bank statements (3 years), balance sheets (3 years), accounts receivable/payable lists, salary information, financial forecasts, stock inventory and cost price, valuation of equipment and fixtures.
Legal: Business registration (ABN), contracts/agreements, insurance policies, building leases, licenses, patents/trademarks, employee agreements, and records of employment, franchise agreements current loans/agreements. If it is a freehold sale, the land title, and any agreements.
Operational: Marketing plans, vendor and customer database, equipment servicing receipts, website details and statistics, business procedures, training manuals, and employee manuals.

Without a broker, you would need to do the following:

Value your business
Prepare a marketing document on your business including history, what you sell, competition, growth prospects, why you are selling, and contact details.
Advertise the business is for sale. Word of mouth and your existing networks may also help.
Deal with interested parties
Be prepared to make relevant financial, legal, and operational information available as per above so the prospective buyer can do their due diligence.
Prepare a contract of sale. It is highly recommended you use the services of an accountant and lawyer at this point to help prepare the documents and transfers.
Determine how and when settlement will occur.

HINTS

Keep your employees up to date when appropriate.

Selling your business may result in additional obligations that need to be paid, such as employee entitlements or tax amounts from asset sales.

Normally the sale of a business is GST free.

Remember to account for asset depreciation when valuing an asset.

The Australian Tax Office offers small business owners the following Capital Gains Tax (CGT) concessions.

15-year exemption – may exempt a capital gain from a business asset you have owned for at least 15 years
50% active asset reduction –allows you to reduce the capital gain arising from the sale of a business asset
retirement exemption – allows you to receive relief from CGT if you sell active assets used in your business. Active assets include those used in the course of operating a business and intangible assets like goodwill.
rollover – allows you to defer a capital gain from the disposal of a business asset for two years.

SUMMARY – Consider using a business broker

Make sure you are selling for the right reasons. Work out if you want to sell everything or just parts. Decide if you will get help from a business broker to sell your business or do it yourself. Be prepared to provide all your confidential information and try hard to keep emotion out of the process.

Graphic design – get graphics done

Posted on December 13, 2021 by Valens Quinn

What does the logo say about your business? Does your website design and images make your business look attractive to the readers? Are you sweating on a big presentation, but the text-based version just does not cut it? Chances are unless you are artistic yourself, you are going to need some help. This guide will look at some graphic design options to help you improve your image and get graphics done.

Graphic design is the process of visual communication and problem-solving using typography, photography, iconography and illustration. The field is considered a subset of visual communication and communication design, but sometimes the term “graphic design” is used synonymously. Graphic designers create and combine symbols, images and text to form visual representations of ideas and messages.
They use typography, visual arts, and page layout techniques to create visual compositions. Common graphic design applications include corporate design (logos and branding), editorial design (magazines, newspapers and books), wayfinding or environmental design, advertising, web design, communication design, product packaging, and signage.
(Source Wikipedia)

WHY is graphic design important?

They say a picture is worth a thousand words. If you were going to the most important face to face meeting of your life, would you wear a dirty shirt, ¾ pants, and sandals? No, because you would not be creating the best impression. Similarly, you want your business to make the best impression and no matter if it is your logo, website, business card, brochure, Facebook post, presentation, or the sign on the side of your workplace.

We want your business image to be impressive, and we also want it to be memorable.

The use of graphic design can help with this. If we use the example of a logo, it allows customers to identify your company. A good design will be simple and memorable.

WHAT do I need to understand about graphic design?

Graphic design has gone through an evolution over the last few decades, starting from being done by hand with paper, pencils, crayons, and paint. Then came the introduction of computers and specialist software for those same artists to work within this new technological medium. Today cloud-based tools are made available at a low cost that allows anyone to be a designer, supported by many helpful templates.

A template is a predesigned image that you have the right to use and manipulate to suit your needs. Templates are available for many needs today but for reference, think of a template for a social media post or advertising flyer.

A really important concept to understand is the usage rights of templates and photos. You can use many free templates and photos, but some are licensed. This means you cannot simply copy them. Rather you must either seek permission or, in most cases, pay to use them, possibly for a set period in a fixed geographic location. The more famous/better the photo, the more expensive.

If you wanted to design a logo, for example, these are possible steps you might follow:

Think about why you need a logo
Define your brand identity
Find inspiration for your design
Look at and compare what the competition is doing
Choose your design style
Find the right type of logo
Pay attention to colour
Pick the right typography (arrangement of the image)

HOW can I get graphic design help?

What help you need will depend on your capabilities and what you need to do. For example, if you want a company logo designed, you will probably need help, but if you’re going to improve your presentation slides, there are simple tools that can make a world of difference for the novice. Your options for graphic design include:

Outsource – On the internet, there are many services to get quotes for and find graphic designers.
Add on services – If you need to get business cards printed you will often find the printer or retailer will have a design service available as an additional service. This can be a cost-effective method.
Graphic design business – Seek out a graphic design agency or freelancer directly
DIY graphic design – Will the help of templates and simple to use tools the average person can now produce amazing results. A great Australian cloud-based company offering this solution globally is “Canva”.
Stock photos – If you require photos for your marketing needs many internet-based repositories are offering a free, subscription, or peruse option. For example, Shutterstock offers a free trial.
Templates in your apps – Applications like those discussed in the Office Applications guide such as PowerPoint or Slides offer various free templates to use in your presentations.

HINTS

Before choosing a designer, make sure you see a portfolio of their work.

It is better to get a fixed cost for design work rather than pay by the hour as the hours can easily blow out.

Remember, everyone’s tastes are different, so get a few people’s opinions before deciding on a design.

Understand a graphic designer might know more about graphic design than you do.

SUMMARY – improve your image

Good graphics representing your business will make a good impression and help you build your brand identity. Graphic design will help your image and can be done yourself using templates and tools right through to having the assistance of an expert.

Accounting Software to run your business

Posted on May 6, 2021 by Angus Jones

You started with a shoebox of receipts, now you have a storage box or maybe you are meticulous and have it all on a spreadsheet. Either way it is time to start thinking about accounting software. This guide will look at why you need it and lead you through what you should consider in making your decision.

Accounting software, package or system describes a type of application software that records and processes accounting transactions within functional modules such as accounts payable, accounts receivable, journal, general ledger, payroll, and trial balance. It functions as an accounting information system.
source Wikipedia

Accounting software has changed a fair bit over the last few years with new competition driving new features and simplicity. Probably the biggest change however is that it is all in the cloud. Put simply this means you rent access to the solution and do everything via the internet. You no longer have software that you must buy and host internally on extra computer hardware that you must keep safe. Instead you have a user-friendly solution that you can access from anywhere that integrates with your bank, POS system, etc.

WHY should you buy Accounting Software?

WHY should you buy Accounting Software?

Saves you time – track invoices, manage bills and expenses and pay staff in a few clicks
Tax time ready – calculate GST, PAYG and BAS reports
Built for Australian legislation reporting
Get paid faster – online invoices, pay now buttons and automatic payment reminders
Enter receipts on the move – use your smartphone to take a photo of the receipt from Bunnings. Great for travellers and tradies.
An external accountant or bookkeeper can have instant access at the same time you do
Reporting lets you quickly get a good idea of how your business is going now
Accounting software becomes increasingly beneficial as the business gets more complicated

HOW to make a decision on which Accounting Package

So now we understand that this software solution is so much more than getting a bill in the system, it is about automating the whole process. Let us look at the features you should consider when selecting which vendor:

Different accounting package vendors offer different features and even within the same company they offer different levels which means you only get what you need. For example, if you have no employees you do not need the payroll functionality. Consider what package you will need?
Pay Staff – Do you want payroll integration? Does the system calculate all payroll requirements including PAYG, annual leave, long service leave etc.? From July 2019 small employers with 19 or less staff must report payroll info to the ATO through Single Touch Payroll. https://www.ato.gov.au/Business/Single-Touch-Payroll/ (Be sure to read our essential guide on Payroll)
Ease of use – As an untrained small business owner how easy is it to learn to use the package and be assisted through the software to understand what the requirements are of controlling your finances?
Invoicing – Send customised, trackable invoices. Can clients pay right from the invoice? Can automatic payment reminders be sent?
Tax and GST – Can you easily and automatically track what you owe, and see all your position at a glance?
Does the software support Standard Business Reporting (SBR) allowing you to lodge your GST BAS requirements? (Be sure to read our essential guide on GST)
Application integration – Can the package be connected to other software solutions you are using?
Time tracking and billing – If you charge by the hour are there features that will simplify gathering this data? For example, a smartphone App.
Reports and budgets – What level of detail do you need and can you compare against a plan or budget?
Track jobs – Does the system track stock, work in progress, orders, jobs, and other task management requirements?
Bills and expenses – How easy is it to upload your bills and easily categorise expenses?
Point of Sale (POS) integration – Is there a seamless connection to track sales and inventory movements?
Inventory – If you hold inventory/stock will this package help you forecast and manage it? Can you barcode scan items in and out if you want to?
Bank Reconciliation – Will the system be able to handle multiple bank accounts?
Manage customers & suppliers – Can you easily see which customers owe you money, and which you need to follow up on?
Take payments – Does the software allow EFTPOS or credit card processing?
Cash flow management – Can you see your money in and money out at a glance, and understand quickly what your cash position is?
Online accounting – Is there a smartphone or tablet app that lest you enter data or receipts as well as run your business from anywhere?
Multi-currency – Does the system need to handle foreign currency?
Account sharing – Can you invite accountants, bookkeepers, and partners so they can help you manage your business?
Security – What security and backup procedures do they offer to help you protect your data?
Customer Relationship Management (CRM) – Does the system keep detailed records on customers including what they buy, how often they buy, and when they buy?
Service – What support and training are available, what hours and does that support understand Australian regulations?

HINTS

For more information on what accounting tools are available and the specific features, they offer visit

Free trials are available to help you compare and chances are your financial expert will have an opinion on which one to use.

The accounting software packages you should consider in no particular order include Xero, MYOB, Quicken, Reckon, QuickBooks and Sage.

SUMMARY – Right Accounting Software

Having the right accounting package will save you vast amounts of time and effort and will help keep your business compliant with government regulations.

Although these modern tools are brilliant in helping you control your business finances they will never replace having access to a financial expert. We strongly recommend you have access to an accountant or bookkeeper to help guide you.

If you do not have external financial support today you can visit this site to help you find the right person

GST do I have to pay it?

Posted on May 6, 2021 by Angus Jones

They say two things are certain in life, death and taxes. We certainly hope your small business lives a long and prosperous life and that you never fall foul of the taxman. In this guide, we will explain the GST and show you that it is not a tax you pay but instead one you help collect from the final consumer.

The Goods and Services Tax (GST) is a broad-based tax of 10% on most goods, services, and other items sold or consumed in Australia. If you are registered for GST, you must add GST on all your applicable taxable sales unless they are GST-free or input-taxed. You are able to claim credits for GST included in the price of business purchases of goods and services.

WHY do I need to register?

If your business exceeds $75,000 turnover or provides taxi or ride-sharing services you must register and charge for GST! You need to register within 21 days of exceeding the turnover threshold.

WHAT are the steps to follow for Standard GST registration?

Register for GST online, by phone or through a registered agent. Make sure you get an Australian Business Number (ABN) first. https://www.ato.gov.au/Business/GST/Registering-for-GST/
Determine which of the goods and services you sell must include GST.
Issue tax invoices when you sell something which GST is included you must issue an invoice clearly showing the 10% GST added. For example, $100 x 1.1 = $110 inc GST. Under Australian legislation, all goods and services pricing should be indicated as total price with GST included. For example, from the previous example, $110 inc GST, not $100 ex GST.
GST credits for anything that you have bought for your business. Collect tax invoices that show GST has been paid . Link

Australian GST-free products and services
Most basic foods, some education courses and some medical, health and care products and services are exempt from GST.
Exports of goods and services from Australia are generally GST-free.
The supply of a service is GST-free if the recipient of the service is outside Australia.
Further info

Your accounting system should clearly show how much GST you have collected and paid. (Be sure to read our essential guide on Accounting software as this will simplify the process). Ensure you put aside any GST money you have collected, as it must be paid to the tax office and it is not your business’s revenue. You will pay your GST collected minus your allowable credits to the ATO.
Lodge a BAS statement. A Business Activity Statement (BAS) is your report to the ATO on your GST activity. You can lodge online through MyGov, the ATO Business Portal, directly through some accounting software, tax agent, or mail.
If your turnover is less than $20 million you must lodge quarterly otherwise monthly. More details can be found in our How to Complete a BAS guide.

The Australian tax office requires GST invoices to include certain information and this will differ based on the sale being below or above $1000. The above $1000 format can be used for the lesser value. The specific requirements and a suggested format can be found here https://www.ato.gov.au/business/gst/Tax-invoices/

BAS due by Quarter	Due date
1. July, August, and September	28 October
2. October, November, and December	28 February
3. January, February, and March	28 April
4. April, May, and June	28 July

HINTS

Keep good records
Ensure your sales reconcile with your bank statements
Keep all your tax invoice and GST records for 5 years
GST is not claimable on private expenses such as entertainment and food
All claims must be in Australian dollars
When claiming a tax credit for less than $82.50 for you only need one of the following; a tax invoice, a cash register receipt, a receipt, or an invoice.
You cannot make credit claims for invoices that do not include GST
Further GST and BAS tips can be found on the ATO website

If you sell something that is GST exempt you can still claim credits for the GST included in the price of purchases you use to make your GST-free sales.

SUMMARY – GST do I have to pay it

In summary, GST will be part of your business, so ensure you keep accurate records and employ an appropriate person to help and/or use a software tool to ensure you stay compliant.

Webcam, Mouse and Keyboard for productivity

Posted on November 18, 2020 by Angus Jones

If you are like most people, you will have bought a new PC or laptop and never considered those extra computer peripherals. After all, they probably came with the unit or were built into your laptop. Specifically, we are talking about a webcam, mouse, keyboard or even a headset or separate microphone. In this how-to guide, we will look at why you should consider spending some more money, what you need to understand about peripherals and how to buy the right item.

WebCam: A video camera either integrated or connected to a PC allowing images to be seen normally over the internet.
Mouse: A small handheld peripheral that when moved will cause the cursor on a computer screen to also move.
Keyboard: a set of keys allowing alphanumerical communication on a PC.
Microphone or Speaker: A mechanical device to turn audio sound waves into signals that can be transmitted by your PC or vice versa.

WHY should I buy a Webcam, Mouse and Keyboard?

Your brand-new PC comes with an included mouse and keyboard. Your brand-new laptop comes with a trackpad (mouse), keyboard, webcam and microphone.

However, there are a few reasons why you should consider buying a separate Webcam, Mouse Keyboard, Microphone, Headset, Speakers etc

They did not come in the box
Chances are if you bought a freestanding computer an accessory such as a webcam is not included.
Quality
A PC manufacturer will typically only ship the most essential quality accessories to keep their and your costs down. This would influence the touch and feel or how the product looks. In the case of a microphone or webcam, it will impact how you look and sound.
Ergonomics
This can be considered two ways:
- With a laptop computer, the peripherals are build-in; therefore when you use it remotely it is convenient, but if you are at home, ergonomically a separate keyboard and mouse will allow you to find a much more comfortable position
- The design and shape of a keyboard can reduce the stress and strain placed on your hands, fingers and back. Many people, after years of operating a computer develop an RSI or repetitive strain injury.
Functionality
A third party peripheral may come with extra buttons or features that allow you to become more effective. Examples include scrolling left and right from a mouse, zooming a webcam, and pressing a button on your keyboard to open an app.
Durability
A cheap accessory is built to a price, and its performance may deteriorate quickly with use. Ensure your products will survive a fall and potentially put up with the abuse from working at home.

More and more people are now working from home (COVID has undoubtedly accelerated that) but for most small businesses that was already a reality. However, what has changed is the use of your computer to make video and voice calls. To be seen as a professional, you need to ensure your video image is sharp and your voice is heard clearly.

WHAT do you need to know about computer peripherals?

An essential product we have not covered in this guide is computer monitors. We have a separate guide available here. If you are also in the market for a new computer, be sure to check out our guide on buying a new PC.

No matter what accessory you buy for your PC, they will be connected to your PC in some way and also powered. This is likely to occur in one of two ways.

A wired connection will pass information back and forth and also provide power for the device. The advantage is you don’t have to worry about batteries or to recharge. Still, you do have to worry about an ugly cable. You also need to consider whether your PC has enough USB sockets or buy a hub (same concept as a power board).

The second method is a wireless solution that will typically connect to your PC by Bluetooth and require disposable or rechargeable batteries. The significant advantage here is no cords, especially for a mouse.

HOW to pick the right Webcam, Mouse and Keyboard

Below we have listed the key features you should consider when buying a:

Webcam

Quality of video capture. Measured as resolution and frame rate. Look for HD or Full HD at 30fps.
Field of view. Measured in degrees will determine if you are captured as a wide (> deg sees more of the room) or closeup shot.
Autofocus. Ensures the image of you is clear
Light correction. If you are in a dark or bright room, how well the camera compensates
Quality of lens. Glass is better
Compatibility with Zoom, Teams, Skype etc
Mounting. Does it come with a bracket to attach to a monitor or tripod
Microphone. Determines how you sound and what other noise is picked up. Consider a stereo mike for natural sound with noise cancelling.
Software control. Manual adjustment, video capture, and even changing the background, so people do not see your unmade bed.

Mouse

How you hold the mouse – fingertip grip, palm grip or claw grip. Also consider if it will be small enough to travel with if required.
Feel – comfort, scrolling action and buttons
Cable or wireless
Sensitivity – for precision mouse movements if editing images, video or audio. Measured in Dots Per Inch, look for one with at least 1200 DPI
Will it work on different surfaces?

Keyboard

Cable or wireless – if wireless consider battery life
Compatibility with Windows PC or Apple Mac
Extra function keys – to open apps or perform tasks
Ergonomics of keys – position and feel
Sensitivity and noise – avoid mistypes and disturbing others
Do you want illuminated keys for night use

Headset

Over-ear – on-ear – in-ear. – Personal preference
Sound quality
Comfort including lightness and after long periods
Fashion – How will you look on a video call
Microphone quality and placement
Features including mute, volume or even noise cancelling

Microphone (stand-alone)

More expensive the better you sound
Usage – video calling versus recording a podcast
Size
Does it connect via USB or 3.5mm jack and include software to adjust the sound
Portability if you need to travel

Speakers

More expensive may not mean better but cheap is generally cheap
Do you just need noise or will you also listen to music
Cable or wireless connection
Dedicated volume and possibly base control
How big and how do they look
Other uses such as a smart speaker
How loud they are, measured in wattage
Try to listen before you buy

HINTS

If you are in the market for a new computer accessory, unfortunately, you are unlikely able to test drive it at your local retailer or office supply store. We do recommend you visit our sister site Gadgetguy.com.au for unbiased reviews and comparisons.

The key players in the peripherals market are Microsoft and the key PC makers themselves like HP and Dell. Still, we highly recommend you check out the vast range available from Logitech. The latter specialises in this market and make products to suit many needs.

SUMMARY – Improve your PC productivity

Buying a new Webcam, Mouse ,Keyboard etc for your computer is one of those things that you do not know what you are missing out on until you experience what better looks/feel like. The accessory may seem expensive but remember it is the primary connection for you to connect with your PC and possibly your customers.

When deciding what to buy always consider what you need, how it will help your productivity, improve your impression on others, and be more comfortable for you to use.

Business Insurance – protect your business

Posted on July 14, 2020 by Angus Jones

In many of the guides available from this website we have been discussing liability associated with running a business. We have used extreme examples, like losing your house, so you understand worst-case scenarios. The good news is that we can protect ourselves against most of these liabilities and this guide will explain the key insurance types you should consider.

Insurance is a means of protection from financial loss. It is a form of risk management, primarily used to hedge against the risk of a contingent or uncertain loss.
An entity which provides insurance is known as an insurer, insurance company, insurance carrier or underwriter. A person or entity who buys insurance is known as an insured or as a policyholder. The insurance transaction involves the insured assuming a guaranteed and known relatively small loss in the form of payment to the insurer in exchange for the insurer’s promise to compensate the insured in the event of a covered loss. The loss may or may not be financial, but it must be reducible to financial terms, and usually involves something in which the insured has an insurable interest established by ownership, possession, or pre-existing relationship.
(source Wikipedia)

(source Wikipedia)

WHY do I need Business Insurance?

First consider your personal life. Do you insure your car, home, health, income, or life? Yes, most of you do protect yourself from unexpected expenses in the unlikely event something goes wrong. A business is no different!

WHAT might we need insurance cover for?

In business the sorts of things we would consider protecting include your workers, your personal liability, company assets like buildings, company revenue, and your customer.

HOW do I know which insurance policies I will need?

Some insurance is compulsory and includes Public liability, Third-party Personal Injury (if you own a car), and Worker’s Compensation (if you have workers).

Public Liability Insurance

Public liability insurance covers you for third party injury or death. It helps protect you and your business when you are liable for negligence. This can be as simple of someone falling over in your shop but other examples include:

food poisoning
property damage, such as causing a fire
providing bad advice, e.g. selling a commercial fridge to a restaurant that fails to keep its temperature meaning the restaurant incurs a loss of inventory
nervous shock, such as emotional distress or a recognised psychiatric illness

Third-party Personal Injury insurance

You cannot register a vehicle in Australia without this insurance however please make sure you declare you will be using the vehicle for business purposes.

Workers Compensation Insurance

If someone is injured or illness occurs in a workplace you have responsibilities to cover the costs which will be incurred, you cannot just send them off to a bulk billing doctor and pretend it happened at home. This insurance will cover worker’s compensation, first aid, and rehabilitation. There are authorised providers of this type of insurance and a list is available from APRA https://www.apra.gov.au/register-of-general-insurance

Some quick callouts. Sole Traders cannot cover themselves individually. Independent contractors may require their own insurance.

Other insurance policies you may consider include (not compulsory):

Accident and Liability Insurance

If your business is likely to be sued, then you should consider this insurance. For some industries this is mandatory, for others optional. Further information by industry resources can be found here https://www.business.gov.au/Planning/Industry-information

You might consider this insurance if you:

are a company director or senior manager
work in an industry that attracts large government fines
collect personal data of customers
sell, supply, deliver or in some cases service goods or services that could cause damage, injury or emotional distress
provide professional advice
sign contractual obligations that possibly could go wrong or not be met

Stock, Product and Asset Insurance

If your business would fail from loss of an asset or stock, insurance may reduce that risk and could include insuring for:

Building and Contents
Farm crops, livestock, machinery
Goods in transit either as delivery or perhaps you own assets being moved like a bulldozer
Electric or machinery breakdown and or including spoilt stock, for example food

Personal or Loss of Income Insurance

In the event of a disaster to you or your business could you or your family survive a loss of income? These are both personal and business insurances you may want to consider:

Income Protection
Life Insurance
Disability insurance
Business interruption or loss of profits (for specific insured dangers like fire)
Management liability (protects personal assets)
Employee theft or Fraud

Technology and Cyber Crime Insurance

Criminals are more likely to break into your computer network and damage or steal from your business than break into your premises today. Every year this becomes a bigger issue and you should take steps to protect both your expensive computer hardware and the even more valuable data that supports your business.

SUMMARY – Talk to an Insurance Brocker

Knowing what insurance policies you need can be complicated and we recommend that you speak with a licensed insurance broker or advisor. We also recommend they are licensed which can be checked on the ASIC website. https://connectonline.asic.gov.au/RegistrySearch/faces/landing/ProfessionalRegisters.jspx?_adf.ctrl-state=xxgvmg709_4