Growing a small business can be challenging enough without spending needlessly on tools to help you run it. Fortunately, there are several tools available for SMEs that can simplify operations and boost productivity without costing the earth. Here are our top 12 tools that small businesses should consider:

1. Canva: A graphic design tool that makes it easy to create professional-looking designs. It’s intuitive, easy to get started and there are lots of videos online to get you putting promotions and ads together quickly – there is a free option but the paid-for version is a small cost with a big benefit. https://www.canva.com/
2. Xero: Cloud-based accounting software that offers real-time financial data, making it easier to manage cash flow and make informed decisions. It can be a bit complex for beginners but once it starts to learn from you, it will greatly increase your efficiency. https://www.xero.com/
3. Slack: If you have a small team, Slack can be a great tool. It’s a communication platform that makes team collaboration much easier - a perfect service alongside Zappaty. https://slack.com/
4. Zappaty: Our secure file sharing and collaboration service helps you share important content with colleagues, clients and other teams … and lots of it … Zappaty quickly and easily helps you transfer files and stay in control. https://www.zappaty.com/
5. Google Meet: A video conferencing tool essential for remote meetings. It’s easy to use and gives more free time than some of its competitors. https://meet.google.com/
6. Trello: A project management tool that uses boards and cards to organise tasks. It is visually appealing and suited to small business needs and budgets. https://trello.com/
7. Mailchimp: A low-cost and user-friendly email marketing platform that helps businesses reach their audience. It’s feature-rich but can be expensive for larger subscriber lists. https://mailchimp.com/
8. HubSpot: If you need a more comprehensive way to manage your customer database and interactions, HubSpot may be for you. A marketing, sales, and customer service software that helps businesses grow and can scale with them. https://www.hubspot.com/
9. Shopify: An e-commerce platform that supports businesses setting up an online store. It is user-friendly but keep track of transaction fees to help you stay competitive. https://www.shopify.com/
10. Buffer: A social media management, publishing and tracking tool that allows you to schedule posts and improve performance. It’s comprehensive and not as complex as other tools on the market. https://buffer.com/
11. Google Analytics: This is the most popular website analytics tool. If you have a digital presence or rely on digital sales, it measures your website traffic and conversions and also provides insights into your best and worst-performing pages, of your website so you can make quick improvements. https://analytics.google.com/
12. AppSumo: Access this site to buy low-cost lifetime subscriptions to many software tools allowing you and your business to manage outgoings more easily. https://appsumo.com/

There’s a huge range of tools available to help your business grow but choosing the right ones is key. Zappaty can be an essential part of … yes, we’re biased … will help you share and collaborate on huge files – try us out on a 30-day free trial today https://www.zappaty.com/register