Tools of the Trade

Tools of the Trade

An important part of developing a successful Internet business is setting up your office space. Whether you operate your business from an office building or out of your home, having your own "space" is an essential part of your success.

Your office space should be used exclusively for your business and be set up to best suit your needs. Below, are some suggestions to assist you in setting up your office:

Desk and Chair

When selecting a desk for your office, make sure you get a desk that is specifically designed for a computer. Computer desks provide plenty of room for your monitor, a cabinet for your computer case, a shelf for your printer, and a slide out shelf for your keyboard.

When selecting a chair for your desk, keep in mind, you'll be sitting in this chair for many hours. Make sure it is very comfortable and that you try it out before you buy it.

Take your time and select a desk and chair that you'll be very comfortable with. If you don't, you may find that you're straining yourself in one form or another (back, neck, arms, etc.), which will result in poor work performance.

Computer Equipment

If you haven't purchased a computer, make sure you purchase one that will grow with you. If you don't, you'll find that you'll either have to upgrade your system or purchase another one a few years down the road.

In addition, make sure you purchase your computer from a reputable company that will provide you with quality customer support.

Printer

When selecting a printer, you will basically have two options -- laser or ink jet. You should select a printer depending on your needs. If you'll be doing a large amount of printing and speed and high quality are important, your best option will be a laser printer. Laser printers produce better quality black text than most ink jet printers, and are much faster. However, an ink jet will enable you to print in color, which is a big advantage.

Another important consideration is the printer's resolution. The resolution determines the print quality, and refers to the number of dots per inch on a page -- the higher, the better. Most printers today support a 600 x 600 dpi resolution that will produce a good quality for most print jobs. Keep in mind, although a printer may support as high as a 1200 x 1200 dpi (dots per inch), you most likely won't notice any quality difference, when compared with a 600 x 600 dpi, with most print jobs.

Scanner

A scanner will enable you to scan photographs and documents into your computer. For example, if you'd like to place a photograph of yourself or your products on your web site, a scanner will make it possible.

Fax Machine

With today’s advanced technology, you can use your computer to send and receive faxes. All you'll need is a telephone line, fax modem and software.

Digital Camera

A digital camera will enable you to take pictures of your products, or whatever you'd like, and transfer them into your computer. They provide a great way to create your own images for your web site or product development.

Telephone

A business line will enable your customers to contact you. Even if you're using your telephone line to connect to the Internet, most phone services now offer voice mail. Voice mail will enable your callers to leave a message while you're connected to the Internet. There are also software programs and devices that will enable you to take calls while you're connected to the Internet.

Filing Cabinet

A filing cabinet will enable you to organize your paperwork such as your receipts, tax information, and business records.

In addition to the basic office equipment, you'll also need to stock up on some supplies:

• Pens
• Pencils
• Pencil Holder
• Pencil Sharpener
• Address/Phone Book
• Business Cards
• Note Pads
• Envelopes
• Printer Paper
• Ink Cartridges
• Log Books Files
• Excedrin Migraine, Motrin IB, Advil, Tylenol or whatever your favorite headache medicine may be. You're going to need it:)

Take your time and set up your office according to your budget. Start out with the essentials, such as a computer and an Internet connection. You can add additional equipment and supplies as you go.

Setting up your office space is an essential part of your success. Not only will it designate a specific area as your business space, but it will also provide you with some added motivation to work towards accomplishing your dreams.

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