Top Internet Tools for Entrepreneurs
As 2006 draws to a close there are so many articles being written about the top this and that of 2006 that I would throw my own contributions into the mix.
Entrepreneurs are a special mix of individuals ranging from home start-up businesses to venture start-ups, and so I wanted to provide a list of the top ten Internet tools geared for entrepreneurs. So without further ado, the list of must have tools for entrepreneurs:
Basecamp
What is it?
Basecamp is a unique project management and collaboration Web service that allows not only your team, but also allows your clients to have a central place to collaborate and manage projects.
Why is this a must have for Entrepreneurs?
- There is no software to download and install! All you will need is a Web browser (no IT department required).
- It is customizable! Unlike most project management software that require you to conform to its language and its process, Basecamp allows you to customize what you want, you can even customize the look of the application.
- It is user friendly! It has to be the first project management and collaboration software that I have found that is truly easy to use. You can definitely throw out the manual with this product because you can be up and running within 15 minutes, and still be the expert.
Blinksale
What is it?
Blinksale is an online invoice creation and management tool.
Why is this a must have for Entrepreneurs?
- Blinksale makes creating, sending and tracking of invoices very simple. It is not loaded with a bunch of useless, confusing features.
- The invoices are professional, but are very easy to read and understand. Gone are the days of the simple, boring invoices that have little brand recognition for your business.
- If you are a designer Blinksale allows you the flexibility to customize your invoices. If you do not have one design bone in your body, Blinksale provides a gallery of great looking invoice templates.
- Most importantly - they help you get paid!
Stock.xchng
What is it?
Stock.xchng is a free online photo site
Why is this a must have for Entrepreneurs?
The site has excellent photography. Plus there is great quality control so just about every photo that is submitted is professional quality.
Most photos are print ready. This means that the quality of the photo is great enough that it will not distort when printed.
Its FREE, need I say more…
Gizmo
What is it?
Gizmo is an Internet telephone
Why is this a must have for Entrepreneurs?
- It is a great, inexpensive way to have a dedicated business line.
- Gizmo is easy and simple to use. With a click of a mouse button you can be talking with clients around the world, and the quality and clarity is excellent.
- Gizmo also provides a free conference call feature.
MassCampaign
What is it?
MassCampaign is a Web based email marketing and newsletter tool.
Why is this a must have for Entrepreneurs?
- Custom designed templates - No more choosing from templates that do not look like your business. MassCampaign standard setup fee includes one custom design.
- MassCampaign provides list management features that include email bounce handling and opt-in and opt-out management.
- MassCampaign provides real-time response tracking to any emails campaigns that are sent. So now you know if you email was received, was it opened, and were any of the links clicked.
Google Analytics
http://www.google.com/analytics/
What is it?
Google Analytics, formally Urchin, is a high end web statistics program that allows you to know how many people came to your site, what they dide, where did they come from, and so much more.
Why is this a must have for Entrepreneurs?
- Google Analytics is very sophisticated but still very easy to use.
- Google Analytics helps you understand where you Web site visitors are coming from and what they are doing once they are on your Web site.
- Google Analytics is free. No longer do you have to pay top dollar to understand how visitors are using your Web site.