Your small business’s hardware includes desktop and laptop computers, servers, printers, portable storage devices, video cards, and telephony systems. Essentially, any physical tech product falls into this category. Since these items can significantly impact your IT budget, it’s crucial to make thoughtful purchasing decisions. Each item comes with its own set of features and options, but there are general considerations that apply to many of these purchases.
**Essential Features**
Before you start looking, create a list of essential features your business uses regularly. Each product will have different options, so make sure your list aligns with the product’s features. For example, if your team frequently prints documents from mobile devices, ensure any new printer has a mobile printing feature. If those documents are simple, spending extra on advanced features like color printing might not be necessary.
**Speed and Performance**
Most hardware devices have a processor or CPU that determines their speed and performance. More processing power means faster operation and the ability to handle more complex tasks and larger workloads. While some processors are designed for specific tasks like gaming or video editing, a decent processor with good cores and clock speeds should suffice for basic business tasks. If the tech details are overwhelming, consider consulting an IT expert to assess your needs and recommend suitable products.
**Storage**
Storage and memory are crucial for various hardware products, from computers to thumb drives. This refers to the amount of data a device can store for you to access and use. You need storage for everything from basic documents and photos to complex programs and applications. Limited storage can affect performance, making devices slower as they near capacity. Assess how much storage space you currently use to determine your needs. Options like cloud storage and external hardware can supplement your main devices. Generally, aim for storage well above your immediate needs, measured in Gigabytes or Terabytes.
**Mobility**
Around 52 percent of employees globally work remotely at least once a week. Even if you don’t telecommute or allow your employees to do so, you might travel for business or need to access work files outside the office. The right hardware can boost your team’s ability to work remotely or stay mobile. You might opt for laptops over desktops for flexibility or invest in thumb drives or small external hard drives to make information accessible from various locations.
**Budget**
Budgeting is critical for any small business purchase, especially hardware, which can be expensive. In 2019, small businesses planned to allocate about 41 percent of their IT budgets to hardware, encompassing desktops, laptops, and servers, as well as smaller items like printers and telephony systems. However, it’s not just about spending the least amount of money. First, assess your essential needs, including features, speed, and storage capacity, then look for the best value within those criteria. Be cautious of very cheap options, as you don’t want to invest in hardware that breaks down quickly. Consider used or refurbished options from reputable dealers to save money, and look for products with warranties to safeguard your investment.
