Storage and sharing of files

Posted on June 10, 2021 by Angus Jones

Emailing copies of files around an office environment just does not make sense especially if they are large ones. In this guide we will discuss what are your options for storage, backup and sharing files in small businesses and lead you through what you should consider in making your decision.

File sharing is the practice of distributing or providing access to computer files, multimedia (audio, images, and video), documents, or electronic books. Common methods of storage, transmission, and dispersion include manual sharing utilising removable media such as a USB stick or portable hard drive, file sharing server on a computer network, and cloud-based storage platforms on the internet.

WHY do I want a File Share Storage Solution?

You may wish to share files in your office, to your clients, or on the other side of the world. It is most likely to be a document being worked on by many or a large document that is too large for email. Parties with access may or may not have the authority to edit the file.

Even if you do not want to share files, having separate storage available is great for an individual to store files when they start to run out of room on their PC.

WHAT do you need to know about File Sharing and Storage Options?

There are 3 main types of storage that a small business is likely to consider:

USB memory stick or portable hard drive – portable storage that plugs into a USB port on your PC.
File Sharing server – Data storage box located on your network (Be sure to read our essential guide on Networks)
Cloud-based storage – Data storage provided by a 3^rd party and accessed through the internet (Be sure to read our essential guide on Cloud-based services)

File sharing is bad when the wrong person gets hold of a file that they should not have and as such you should ensure you have the appropriate security measures to stop unauthorised access.

Advantages and Disadvantages:

USB memory stick
- Advantage: Cheap and does not require internet or networking, very cheap
- Disadvantage: manual and requires to be physicaly moved between devices, fixed capacity
File Sharing Server
- Advantage: No monthly fees, instant access over network and or internet, high-speed transfer especially on the same network, functionality can be combined with other applications on an in house server
- Disadvantage: upfront cost and set up, data could be lost if not backed up properly, additional capacity requires additional or larger hard drive to be installed
Cloud-Based Storage
- Advantage: no hardware required, predictable monthly fee, increase capacity by paying more, access from anywhere
- Disadvantage: Speed limited to internet speed, you rely on storage vendors security and backup unless unlimited, uses your internet download allowance, ongoing fees

HOW to make a decision between Cloud Storage vs NAS File Server?

Considerations when buying a file server:

A file server also called a NAS (network-attached storage) is a computer designed specifically to share files and can be provided by an IT specialist or even bought off the shelf at Officeworks. It will plug into your office network by ethernet cable or potentially by wifi.

Is it plug and play – just works once you connect it?
Will it support a backup solution preferably offsite? (Be sure to read our essential guide on Backup)
Do you want it to connect to a cloud service for extra capacity or backup?
Does it have a USB port for simple backup?
What size and speed of hard drives? Normally expressed as TB or terabytes.
Does it have spare drive bays to add additional hard drives?
Will it work with Windows and Macs?
Does it support redundancy? This could be a 2^nd power supply or duplication of the same data on 2 disks. This means if one fails you are still up and running without needing to go to your backup.
Can video surveillance footage be plugged directly in?

Considerations if choosing a Cloud-based Storage solution:

Key players in this space include Google Drive, Microsoft One Drive, iCloud, and Dropbox all of which offer a small amount of storage for free and then charge a monthly fee based on capacity required. What will be your cost?
What do you want to store here and is that something you want as a policy in your business?
How much storage do you need? (Allow min 1TB per person – more if you deal with large files)
Is there a file size limit? For example, individual file no bigger than 10GB
Cloud vendors may offer you value add services like productivity tools. What are they and are they of any use?
What guarantees do they provide around the availability of service? For example, they may say that your data will be available 364 days meaning up to 1 day a year it might not.
What security do they have in place?
How do you authenticate an individual is allowed access? (passwords etc)
Is there a backup strategy? How many previous versions of a file are backed up and can still be accessed?
How fast can you upload or download files? Is that speed equal to the speed of your internet plan?
Can files be automatically synced between a PC in the office and the cloud storage?
How does it integrate with your operating system (e.g. Windows) and browser (e.g. Google)?
Does your main business application integrate automatically? For example, the CAD design software AutoCAD will integrate with OneDrive allowing seamless sharing of this drafting tool.
Where is the storage located? Is it Australia or overseas?
What customer service and support is available?

HINT

Be sure to read our essential guide on Backup to ensure that if you have a disaster you can recover from it!

Reviews of simple storage devices can be found by visiting Gadgetguy

A good comparison of cloud storage vendors can be found here:
Techradar

SUMMARY – Easy File Share Solutions

A modern small business will need some sort of file sharing facility and with modern technology, it is easy to do. This will make you more collaborative with your staff, for customers and your suppliers. It will also save you time, money, and stress.

Set up a Wi-Fi network

Posted on March 31, 2021 by Angus Jones

Before you find someone to help you set up a Wi-Fi network, you will be pleased to know that the process is extremely easy. In this guide, we will look at the possibilities and help you decide what to buy and how to set it up to ensure the best productivity.

Wi-Fi is a wireless sharing technology that allows devices such as computers (laptops and desktops), smartphones and other equipment (printers and video cameras) to connect to the Internet.

WHY should I have a Wi-Fi network?

Suppose you are transferring large amounts of data, or you need a mission-critical connection to the internet. In that case, you should not have a Wi-Fi connection, you should instead use a cable connection to your modem or Wi-Fi router. An ethernet cable will allow faster transfer speeds and a more reliable connection.

However, if you want to seamlessly move to different places in your home or office without being tied to cables, Wi-Fi is a must. Wi-Fi encourages collaboration but, most importantly, simplicity rather than having to do expensive hardware and cabling installs.

If you run a business where your guest might benefit from Wi-Fi, it is also simple to provide them with access to the internet, but not access your private computer resources and files.

WHAT do I need to set up a Wi-Fi network?

Small Business Answers have a separate article on setting up a computer network covering all the higher-level information you need to understand.

Steps to set up a Wi-Fi network:

You will need to sign up for an Internet plan where you should consider what speed and capacity will suit your needs
Buy a wireless router. A wireless router is a device that does two key functions. The router function allows a single internet connection provided by a modem (device to connect you to the internet) to be distributed across many devices. It is very simplistically like a single power point and adding a power board – you can now plug more things in. The wireless function allows a radio connection of devices without any cables, thus wireless. The connected device like a Notebook will, of course, need its own power source like a battery.
Connect your wireless router to your modem with the supplied ethernet cable.
Set up your wireless router. See the next section for more details.
Connect your devices with a password to your router (more details below). Password protection does two things. First, it stops just anyone connecting to your network, like neighbours or some random person using your network to download movies. Secondly, it prevents others from getting unauthorised access to your network, which might allow them access to private information. More details on internet security can be found in this guide.
Decide who else will have access and under any restrictions.

Which wireless router should I buy?

Our sister site www.Gadgetguy.com.au has reviews on various models to help you decide. Your friendly office supply or consumer electronics store will also have some good advice.

There are some different types you need to understand first:

4G/5G router – different from others as it uses the mobile phone network to access the internet. No broadband connection required, and it will work anywhere there is mobile phone coverage. Internet access will, however, be more expensive.
Standard Wireless router – most common and economical solution.
Wi-Fi mesh router – provides multiple units that enable a much greater coverage area in your place of work with a seamless transfer from one mesh unit to the next. This means a more reliable internet connection for the user.
Business access points and small business solutions – Specific products designed for larger offices or to give Wi-Fi access to customers. There is a simple unit from Netgear called an Orbi Pro. Beyond this, we suggest you seek professional advice.

A wireless router may have been provided to you by your internet provider. These routers are generally the most basic models and may not work as well as a product bought for the purpose. It may lack coverage, capacity (number of connected devices) and speed of transfer.

HOW do I set up a wireless router?

Before you break into a sweat, a simple setup will require you to

Configure a Wi-Fi Router

Select a central location for the router
Connect the supplied ethernet cable from your router to the internet modem
Connect to a power point and turn it on if it has a switch
Look on the bottom/back of the unit for a network name (SSID) and password. The preconfigured name and password will be unique to your router
On your PC or phone, select WI-FI and look for a match to your new router’s network name. Select and add the password
You are now connected

Advanced setup:

Your router will come with instructions that will allow you to make more customisation to your router settings. These will include more complicated setups like a mesh router and directions on downloading an app to your smartphone to assist with the installation and administration process. You will be able to change your network name and password, alter security restrictions or limitations to groups or individuals and the ability to set up a guest network.

A guest network is a key feature you should enable on your router. This means any visitors to your business can benefit from access to the internet but not have access to your printers, shared file systems, POS units etc. Within the router setup menu, which can be reached by either the provided app or by entering a sequence of numbers (IP address) into your connected internet browser (instructions in the router box). Once connected, select the Wi-Fi or wireless section and enable a guest network. Here you can give the separate network a name and password, which you can then provide to your customers.

HINTS

If you do need additional support, see our guide to IT support.

A standard wireless routers coverage can be increased using a Wi-Fi extender which increases the distance covered from the router but by using a different Wi-Fi network name. This is not as simple as a mesh solution but a cheaper way of extending coverage. See our guide on how to improve your Wi-Fi

SUMMARY – Set up a Wi-Fi network

A wireless router will enable you to wirelessly connect your devices to the internet like a PC. This simple device removes the need for cabling and allows mobility within your business premise. A router may be supplied by your internet provider. Still, a higher quality unity easily available from a local retailer is more likely to provide a more productive result. Simple setup can be done in minutes by a novice with more advanced configurations allowing you greater security and control as well as allowing you to set up a 2^nd network for visitors, excluding them any access to your private resources.

Empower remote work

Posted on March 12, 2021 by Angus Jones

34% of Australia’s small and medium businesses (SMBs) are expected to convert to a 100% laptop setup post-COVID-19, underscoring the importance of mobility in a hybrid workplace to empower remote work.

This finding is one of the many interesting strategic insights revealed in an IDC Survey Commissioned by ASUS. The survey explored how SMBs are adapting their technology use and how COVID-19 has affected technology decisions.

Long-Term Remote Work Arrangements

For Australia in particular, the survey found that over half of SMBs (68%) were ready for WFH arrangements brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic. Over a third (33%) of those SMBs said they were not completely prepared with the office equipment and software to enable remote working. 50% of employers expect their workforce to return to the office once the situation is resolved as opposed to the APAC average of 45%. This revealed a general lack of long-term planning for remote working by Australian SMBs.

“Equipping staff with the appropriate technologies for remote working has turned pivotal in enabling a positive employee experience and enhancing productivity,” said Simon Piff, Vice President, IDC, Asia/Pacific. “Purchasing decisions on devices – laptops in particular – need to be reassessed to keep pace with employee expectations, especially among the younger generation of workers who are more digitally astute and are demanding more flexible working arrangements”.

“ASUS has a good understanding of how people work and their requirements, and we were able to draw on this experience to adapt quickly and help our customers manage the challenges”,. said Emma Ou, Country Manager, ASUS ANZ.

Emma continued. “Businesses that adopt more modern, flexible ways of working with the help of digital technology will reap the benefits of greater resource management, streamlined processes, more efficient workflows, and deeper, more actionable insights based on their data.”

Other key Australian SMB findings from the survey include:

54% of employees in Australia want to have a say in the allotment of their devices but in reality 75% of businesses in Australia provision laptops as a standard offering where it is purchase by the company
49% of employees stated that businesses that offer advanced equipment and flexible working arrangements have a competitive edge over other companies
Australian businesses adopt a tactical rather than a strategic approach to laptop refreshes that are meant to occur every 3 years. SMBs in Australia hold onto their laptops a little longer than their APAC counterparts. ASUS speculates that this is because Australian SMBs tend to buy more expensive and powerful systems than the rest of APAC, which extends service life.
- 49% of businesses only refresh laptops when the staff complain that they are slow, and another 47% only do so when they are broken, whenever the budget allows
- 42% of Australian businesses are considering procuring laptops/desktops under a lease model. However, the budget is the primary concern
63% of Australia’s millennials said mobility is pivotal in laptop purchase decisions. This includes all-day battery life, lightweight, fast charging and compact size
Almost one-third of organisation in Australia state that more than 30% of their physical meetings are shifting online, with 72% of local organisations using a laptop for web conferencing with a built-in camera and microphone

Looking ahead to empower remote work

The survey infers that equipping employees with the latest devices that can empower remote work and hybrid work environment will significantly impact employee productivity and experience and provide a competitive edge to organisations to attract and retain talent.

“The need for remote working increased tremendously in 2020, and there was still great uncertainty about how coronavirus will shape business in the coming years”, said Emma Ou, ASUS ANZ Country Manager. “It was these conditions that led ASUS to develop and release new, innovative technologies that will help people get back to better productivity this year, no matter where or how they are working.”

Suggestions for Australian SMBs to implement technology :

Include laptops in as-a-service agreements – Give employees their choice in devices and move away from inflexible standardised units. An as-a-service model can also provide easy access to features previously found only in enterprise-grade, custom-developed devices.
Ensure employees have the right tools to do their job. Doing away with a one-size-fits-all strategy and adopting a more personalised approach to computing by offering employees the laptop of their choice, or based on computing needs, will improve productivity and efficiency.
Refresh laptops faster for better employee experience – Shorten refresh cycles of laptops to keep in step with workforce requirements and boost employee productivity and efficiency.

Find more information in our guide on which PC to buy

Survey Methodology

The “IDC Asia/Pacific Laptops and Workspace Trends Survey 2020” was conducted in mid-2020 in 10 countries across the Asia Pacific, including Australia. With 2,018 respondents across the Asia Pacific, with 200 of them from Australia – split equally between employers (IT decision-makers) and employees who use laptops for work – the survey sought to discover the critical challenges of remote working impacting SMBs and how their provisioning of laptops and other work devices has changed since mid-2020.

How to Improve Wi-Fi

Posted on February 26, 2021 by Angus Jones

We rely so heavily on Internet connections these days, and we are quick to blame the broadband provider when it does not work. However, the question you should be really asking is How to improve Wi-Fi?

WiFi a wireless radio transmission allowing computers, tablets, smartphones, Printers, Camera’s and other WiFi enabled devices to connect to the internet or communicate with one another within a set area.

WHY should I worry about Wi-Fi black spots?

Wi-Fi is designed for in-building use with a range of about 10 to 30 meters. Its range is such as to not interfere with someone else’s Wi-Fi network in the next building. Wi-Fi is unlikely to pass through water or thick steel but can pass through walls which will reduce the signal strength.

The better the connection you have (signal strength), the more reliable and faster your connection will be. Remember, though, your internet connection will never be faster than the broadband plan you have subscribed to. See our guide on Internet Plans and Provision.

WHAT do I need for Wi-Fi?

Everything you need to know about setting up a Wi-Fi router and a computer network can be found in this guide.

HOW to Improve Wi-Fi?

Our sister publication has created a simple guide for improving Wi-Fi performance.

Place your Router in the middle of all the Wi-Fi action
The best place to position your Wi-Fi router will be in the centre of where the devices (or people) are located in your office.
Connect data guzzlers to your Router by Ethernet cable
Your Router will have some ethernet plugs on the back of it. Any device that uses lots of data like a network backup drive or a busy printer may be best directly connected via an ethernet cable.
If your place of business is dual-level or longer than 30m, you need Wi-Fi extenders
Some Wi-Fi routers are better than others at transmitting; however, the 10m to 30m limit is real, so a product called a Wi-Fi extender placed within the range of the Wi-Fi router will then extend the coverage a further 10 to 30m.
The trick is Ethernet backhaul – not Mesh Wi-Fi
Referring back to point 3. A long ethernet cable plugged into the Wi-Fi extender (especially if out of Wi-Fi range) will provide you coverage at a greater distance and at a faster speed.

HINTS – How to improve Wi-Fi

A speed test like www.speedtest.net will give you an indication of what speed your internet is running at. Do a test with a PC connected by ethernet cable directly to your Router, then do a test over Wi-Fi. This will show you what the best case is and if you have a problem. The faster speed is better.

Visit Gadget Guy to read the one-page guide on Kill Wi-Fi blackspots in 5 simple steps

SUMMARY – Improve Internet speed

Put simply, if you have poor internet, look for a solution. We suggest you start by understanding your broadband plan speed. Test its actual speed, then the speeds of your Wi-Fi connected devices in your office.

You will be pleasantly surprised by the effect of fast internet on your and any employee’s productivity.

Business Technology for set up

Posted on September 4, 2020 by Angus Jones

As a small business owner, you need to be a jack of all trades. One of the hats you need to have is head of IT or Information technology. In this guide, we will look at what technology you will need to buy to establish a small business.

Information Technology or IT is the use of computers and telecommunications for storing, retrieving, analysing and to share information.

WHY should I invest in business technology?

Technology will allow your business to run efficiently and make your business look more professional.

It will enable you to communicate via a mobile phone and email. You will have the ability to create documents and print them. IT will allow you to control your finances and time. You will be able to safely store and share information and lastly be found and possibly sell on the internet.

So, put simply, what phones and computer stuff do I need to buy then set up to help run my business !

WHAT business technology do I need to buy?

Below is a checklist of technologies you will need to consider for your business and a link to find more information on selecting the right option:

What technology do I need for my business?

Mobile Phone. Features that will help make a difference in running your business.
Mobile Phone Plan. Consider coverage, data inclusion, & value for money.
Computer (PC). Demystifying the jargon to help you buy the right computer.
Computer monitor. Size vs cost vs quality for your business type.
Office Productivity Software. For producing documents, presentations, spreadsheets, databases, charts, and graphs.
Cloud-based software. Solutions to help you run your business, like accounting, payroll, staff scheduling, databases etc.
Internet Plan and Provision. Reliable broadband at a speed and capacity that suits your small business.
Internet security. Take precautions against a cyber threat to your computers.
Network or WiFi. Allows your office to share resources like the internet or a printer.
Storing and sharing files. Collaborate with staff, customers and suppliers.
Backup. Protecting your data if the worst should happen
Printer. The cheapest one may cost you more!
POS System or terminal. If you are in retail, a café or restaurant you will probably need one.
Website domain and email. Creating an identity and allowing you to communicate on the internet.
Build a website. To boost your brand and help you sell.

HOW do I decide what technology to buy

All of the 15 items on the checklist above have their own Small Business Answers Guide to help you make the right decisions on what to buy. Be sure to click on those links.

If the whole process is still too much for you, we suggest you speak with an IT retailer or engage the services of an IT support person or organisation. See our guide on IT Support – help with technology

HINTS

Now I know you want the latest and best smartphone and computer but carefully consider how much all this will cost before you go crazy with the credit card. Also, consider exactly what you need as you don’t have to buy everything on the first day.

If you believe you will expand and hire more staff, you can always pass technology down and invest in an upgrade for yourself.

The reverse of this, be careful of buying something that does not suit the job. For example, a cheap printer that is not up to the volume means you will be back out purchasing a higher specified printer.

Reviews of specific products can be found at our sister website Gadget Guy

SUMMARY – Setting up your office tech

Buying technology can be a very daunting experience, mostly due to the cost associated with it. It will, however, allow you to operate more efficiently and professionally. The 15 step checklist and the associated 15 guides will give you the confidence to make the right decisions.

Finding a business premises

Posted on July 14, 2020 by Angus Jones

You are ready to make that big move and open a restaurant, or maybe the home garage is not big enough anymore, maybe you want to be considered seriously and need a professional workspace. How do you go about finding that property? This guide will help you on that journey of finding business premises.

WHAT do we need to decide first to find new business premises?

Your journey starts by deciding on the criteria by which you will make your decision. The better your list the better result you will get.

You need to consider:

Will you buy or lease/rent a property?
Would you be prepared to share it with others? There are options around co-location or shared offices where you can run your business from a location shared by other businesses and thus share some of the facilities like a conference room or even a receptionist.
What are your needs and wants in a property? – If you are opening a restaurant you probably need to be in a popular location. If you are opening a retail store does that need to be in a mall. Will customers find you in an industrial estate? How much room will you need? If you are establishing an office you would need around 10 square meters per person. Do you need a kitchen or 3-phase power? How much parking will you need? Can trucks access your location easily? Do you need to be close to your customers? Is there a need for public transport so your workers can get to work? Do you need to consider your future needs?
Will council zoning impact your choice? For example, some business types cannot operate in a residential area.
What is your budget? Can you afford it? Also consider other outgoings like office set up, moving costs, annual rental increases.

HOW do I find the right business property?

Now the search begins in earnest! There are several ways you can find properties:

Find the location yourself by searching for your desired area. A For Lease sign is a dead giveaway
Speak to a local real estate agents
Contact a commercial real estate agent
Find a Property Broker, they will search on your behalf
Use the commercial sections of property websites realestate.com.au or domain.com.au

Using your search criteria and now having a list of possible locations, it is time to visit those properties. Be patient, do your homework and be careful not to make hasty decisions.

Once you have made up your mind it’s time to negotiate the price. Chances are you can get it for cheaper so start talking turkey.

HINT

A good idea is to ask existing neighbors questions about the location/ intended premises.

Be sure to read our essential guide on renting an office

SUMMARY – Finding the right business premises!

Decide if you will buy or lease then come up with a want/need criteria list. Be patient and don’t forget to negotiate on price.

Electricity deals to save money

Posted on July 8, 2020 by Angus Jones

We all dread that quarterly electricity bill at home and unfortunately, in the business environment it is probably only going to be larger. In this guide we look at ways to save power and how to get a better deal.

WHY should I compare electricity companies?

Once electricity supply was from the state governments now we have a deregulated market and different retailers can compete for your business. (Note WA is still Government-owned).
Competition should lead to better pricing and save you money!

WHAT can I do to save power?

We need the power but at least there are ways we can reduce our bill saving us valuable money. We can:

Shop around for the cheapest deal
Install solar panels which can reduce your bill with either a payment upfront or monthly overtime to pay for the panels.
Use more energy-efficient lighting, devices, and machinery.
Ensure devices etc. are turned off when not being used.
Use power-hungry devices when rates are cheap, for example, at night
Use an energy broker or consultant to negotiate a deal.

HOW can I get a better deal on my power bill?

The best method of quickly saving money is to review what prices you can get. Being a small business, it is unlikely you will get a special deal based on massive usage but energy retailers are keen to get your business if you are in the market. The great news is there is an easy way to compare prices. You will see providers quoting a reference price/point (benchmark electricity price set by the government) and a discount. This enables easy comparison between companies to make a quick decision.

Other terminology you should understand:

Discount– reduction expressed as a % below the reference price. Always check to see for how long the discount will last, as price may increase after this period.
Rates – This is how much you pay per Kilowatt-hour Kwh (a 100watt lightbulb on for 10 hrs uses 1 Kwh). Rates may be flat or expressed as peak or off-peak or based on time of day billing (charges go up during busy times).
Sign up discount – normally expressed as a $ amount discount off your first bill
Exit fees– a charge to move to a different energy retailer
Payment options– you may be offered a fixed monthly charge which gives you predictability of costs or variable usage charges payable by all the normal methods, for example, credit card
Combined discounts – you may get a better deal if you sign up to gas as well as electricity
Contracts– some offer no lock-in contracts others sign you up for a period but normally based on a deal
Accuracy of billing – When calculating your electricity usage, your retailer can either estimate your usage, potentially overcharging your business, or measure it. It is worth investigating the technique employed by your retailer or package.
Availability– If you have locations in different states you may have to have multiple retailers.
Green Power – Normally more expensive but derived from renewable energy sources such a wind. Sometimes referred to as carbon offset.
Locked-in pricing – sometimes expressed as peace of mind or fixed. Here a retailer will lock in the cost per Kwh for a set time. The benefit of this is you are protected from any price increase.
Late payment fees – charge if you do not pay your bill on time
Customer service – Either online only or telephone as well. Hours may vary.
Solar feed-in tariff – how much you will be paid per Kwh to give electricity back to the grid. Most solar panel solutions allow you to use your solar power first before feeding your excess back into the grid.

HINTS

A good thing to know is that if you have a blackout in your town it is not the electricity retailer who is fixing it rather the energy distributor. https://www.energymadeeasy.gov.au/frequently-asked-questions/who-is-my-energy-distributor

To compare energy retailers pricing you can visit:
Energy made easy
Finder

SUMMARY – Small Business Electricity

No one plan will be right for all small businesses so shop around and you might be surprised how much you can save for a bit of research.

Office supplies made easy

Posted on July 7, 2020 by Angus Jones

Visiting an office supplies store is a bit like visiting Bunnings. You go in for a pen and you walk out with a pen, a new printer, and a chair mat. What you may not know is these stores can help small businesses with so many other services. This guide will show you these stores can be a one-stop-shop for many of your small business needs.

Office supplies are consumables and equipment regularly used in offices by businesses and other organisations, by individuals engaged in written communications, recordkeeping or bookkeeping, janitorial and cleaning, and for storage of supplies or data.

Wikipedia

WHY should I use an office supplies store?

Having the ability to buy a lot of the items you will need to set up or run your small business is an advantage as it will reduce the running around and ad-hoc nature of procuring items. You will also find the major chains are competitive and offer some type of price matching or beating offer.

Opening a business account with one of these stores could offer the following additional advantages:

faster checkout – as your details are already in the system
view order history – easy to find something you liked before
manage shopping lists – reorder your most used items easily
credit account – a single invoice to pay with credit terms every x number of days

Considering an office supply company for some of your services may also reduce the number of vendors you need to deal with.

WHAT can I buy at an office supplies store?

You may be surprised by the breadth of products and services that can actually be available:

Staples

Stationary – pens, paper, scissors
Office Furniture – chairs desks storage cabinets
Bulk and specialised printing – business cards, brochures, posters, signs
Office supplies – diaries, financial books, laminators, paper, ink & toner
Cleaning supplies – toilet paper, detergent,
Kitchen supplies – coffee, bottled water, tissues
Office technology – Laptops, printers, monitors, Hard drives, software
Telecommunications – Smartphones, phone plans, cordless phones
Workplace safety – safety glasses, workwear, ear protection, signs
Office security – video surveillance, locks, safes
Moving supplies – boxes, tape, trolleys

Services

Technical support – help get your IT problems fixed
Business IT solutions – consulting on what you need
Software licensing – packaging software to suit the number of users
Safety solutions – consulting on your needs
Managed print services – See our guide on printing
Promotional products – giveaways with your logo printed on them
Parcel delivery – freight services you can use
Office fit-out solutions – consulting on office fit-outs
Furniture assembly – building flat-pack
Business financing – small business loans
Product Insurance – cover for devices like smartphones, Laptop, etc
Graphic design – logo design and layout services
Alcohol deliveries – ready for Friday drinks
Milk and fruit delivery – perishables delivered to your door

HOW do I get office supplies?

Most organisations will allow you to

Shop in-store
Online orders
Phone orders

For your online or phone orders you can click and collect or have the items delivered.

Delivery may even be the same day if you order before a certain time and some even offer free delivery when you spend over a price threshold.

Online orders also offer tracking so you can get a good indication if the item you desperately need is on its way.

If you require the services on offer such as one of the consulting services you will need to go instore to discuss or enquire online.

HINTS

Have some controls on how much can be spent and by whom otherwise you may find office supplies cost a bit more than expected.

A shared stationary cabinet stops each desk containing boxes of spare biros.

SUMMARY – One-stop small business shop

An office supplies store is so much more than a place to get a pen or some paper and can indeed become a trusted business advisor. If nothing else it is a store that you can conveniently get most items needed to run a small business office.