There are a lot of useful software products are services out there that are FREE.
These are all tools that we’ve used, and many are the sort of tools that you wonder how you ever managed without!
These are just a few, so if you use anything that has helped your business and think is worth a mention, we’d love to hear from you.
LogMeIn (www.logmein.com)
Ever had a problem with a customer’s PC and wish you could take control and see their problem for yourself? Ever been out of the office and wish you could get access to your PC, to get that important file or email? Now you can!
LogMeIn is available in many versions, however the Free version gives you pretty much everything you need to connect to your PC remotely with only a web browser.
MailBigFile (www.mailbigfile.com)
There are many variants out there, however MailBigFile remains one of the better packages. The service allows you to send very large files securely. If a file’s too big for email, and you don’t have time to cut and send a CD, consider MailBigFile.
Google Calendars (www.google.com/calendar)
One of Google great free applications. If you need to share one or more calendars with the rest of your organisation either in the same office or remotely, this is a tool well worth a look.
It’s secure, easy to use and it’s even possible to Synchronise your calendar with Outlook with Google Gears (http://tools.google.com/gears).
Google Docs (http://docs.google.com)
Another handy Google offering. If you need to share spreadsheets, Word documents (or anything for that matter) with the rest of your organisation either in the same office or remotely, check out Google Docs.
AVG Antivirus (http://free.avg.com)
A neat little Antivirus solution to keep your PC virus free. This is perfect for SOHO (Small Office/Home office) users and doesn’t drastically affect your PC’s performance (unlike some of its competitors we could mention!)
Google Analytics (www.google.com/analytics)
This is the essential tool for any website owner. It shows you the number of visitors to your site, search engine activity, phrases on search engines that got visitors to your site and a whole lot more.
Xobni (www.xobni.com)
A funny name? Try reading it in reverse. If you use Microsoft Outlook, this is a must. Xobni is a fantastic search tool that also integrates with the popular social media sites (such a facebook and linkedin).
It has to be said, this is one of the most useful tools I’ve come across in years!
Microsoft MSN Web Messenger (http://webmessenger.msn.com)
If you think this is just a way for your teenage kids to keep in touch, think again.
It’s an extremely effective business tool as well. As well as an interactive chat feature, you can share your PC’s desktop, files and a whole heap more.
Skype (www.skype.com)
Much like Microsoft MSN Web Messenger, you can chat, share files and talk over the net for free. With Skype, you can also talk via the web to international lines at local rates.
Winzip (www.Winzip.com)
If you need to compress and archive large file into smaller files, Winzip is an essential tools. There are also other variants such as WinRAR, however Winzip remains a firm favourite with many individuals and businesses.
We’re just scratching the surface as there are many more free tools out there, however all of these tools are worth a look.
Next month we look at the Social Media platforms and FREE tools you can use to get the most out of them.
As always, let us know if you need any help or advice or have any other tools you can recommend.