By Alison Flangel

As a small business owner, apps are a great resource to manage various aspects of your business. With thousands of apps available at our fingertips, it can be hard to determine which are actually helpful. Below are some apps to consider using if you own a small business.

  1. Microsoft 365
    Microsoft 365 is one of the best, if not the best, office software app out there. Previously only available as a software program on a PC computer, Microsoft has rebranded to make this application now available for Android and iOS mobile devices. Within the Microsoft 365 app are 3 essential office software programs that you can use: Word, Excel, and Powerpoint. Word can be used to create written documents of all sorts, which will likely be used daily within your business. Excel and Powerpoint are slightly more niche, although also extremely useful. Excel can help the organization of your business by creating spreadsheets, and Powerpoint can assist you in the making of presentations. Microsoft 365 is a must for small business owners, as it is universally used by the majority of the world.
  2. Quickbooks Online
    Quickbooks online is one of the most powerful business tools available in the new age of technology. Whether you are looking to convert tax accounting to payroll, organize inventory management, or analyze profit, quickbooks can do it all (depending on the version that you pay for!). Quickbooks has various versions and price points that cater to small businesses needs. Now available as a mobile accounting app, you can create invoices, track and manage expenses, and more on your mobile phone.
  3. SOS Inventory
    SOS Inventory is an app that helps you manage everything manufacturing; inventory tracking, order management, and more. With this app, you can manage all of your inventory from multiple business locations, track your items, and create tickets and packing slips. The mobile app is free with a software subscription, although plans for the software start at $39.95 per month.
  4. Square
    If you are a small business owner who owns a retail location, you have likely heard of Square. Square is the largest Point of Sale (POS) provider that has changed how businesses process credit card transactions. Square offers various software and hardware solutions, with the most basic version you only pay 2.6% + $0.10 for every in-person payment that you accept. Square is clean and professional, and guaranteed to make credit card payments easy for your customers.
  5. Gusto
    Gusto is a full-service payroll and human resource application, available on a desktop computer or mobile device. Gusto allows you to manage payroll, benefits, and compliance for your employees. Additionally, you can calculate and file payroll taxes, and track vacation/sick time on the app. Gusto is currently available via a monthly subscription, with the base plan starting at $39 per month. The cost is worth it for the effortless organization that Gusto provides.