It’s not a secret that running a small business takes a lot of hard work and dedication. During the start up phase of any business, business owners need to wear many hats; sometimes they need to act as expert marketers, accountants, sales professionals and even technicians depending on their business needs.

Although wearing many hats might be necessary when running a small business, I have noticed that business owners tend to spend too much time dealing with everyday operational details, and forget to deal with what really matters: driving their business forward.

As your business starts to grow, you might not be able to take care of all business activities that take place in your company, which is why it is important to use an automated system that allows you to manage your business efficiently and effectively.

Technology leaders like SAP provide integrated software solutions that have been developed specifically for the needs and budget of small and midsize enterprises. Solutions like SAP Business One allow you to integrate all management functions, including financials, sales, customers, inventory and operations.

SAP Business One gives you access to a single version of the truth, alerts and controls so you can monitor all activities and focus on those that really matter. Such automated solutions help you build strong business foundations to ensure that your business will remain successful in the longer term.

As a new year approaches, it is time to look ahead and start thinking about our new resolutions in both personal and professional levels. At Consensus International, we already started re-evaluating our current strategies, and developing new ones for 2011. We know that every business (no matter its size) needs to have an action plan to set the road for success, and that is why we want to share a few tips and ideas to help you develop a good and smart plan for a better and brighter 2011:

1. Get Rid of Misconceptions: In order to take your company to the next level, you should start thinking like the Big Ones. Most small and midsize businesses (SMBs) think that ERP is only for Fortune 100 companies, but the truth is that companies like SAP have great products in their solutions portfolio that have been designed specifically for SMBs. Applications such as SAP Business One, combine financials, accounting, customer management, human resources, inventory and other functions into one integrated solution.

2. Change is Good: Evaluate your corporate behavior. Some of your principles, systems and routines might need to be revamped to meet new needs. Don’t forget that your employees are the strongest asset of your company; it is important that you educate them and inspire them to embrace change!

3. Gain Visibility: Implementing a system that gives you a 360° view of your business is the key! When you have access to instant and updated information, you can respond rapidly to your customer’s requirements, and make better, faster and smarter decisions.

4. Plan Ahead: Just as you develop a Business or a Marketing plan, you also need to develop a Technology Plan. Choosing the right Business Management Software can make an enormous difference in how efficiently and profitably your company runs. Don’t be scared of investing in technology; we guarantee you that you will see the results!

5. Be Competitive: You need to take smart risks and set the pace for your competition. Don’t be a follower, be a doer, an innovator and a decision maker! Switching from conventional accounting software to an integrated solution might be a good way to start. Systems like SAP Business One allow you to access up-to-the minute information so that you can formulate quick solutions to any obstacles that arise.

Today, most companies are finding it difficult to grow their businesses; instead they are dealing with daily operational details and competitive moves. Organizations run on multiple software applications, which create disjointed sales, accounting, and operational processes resulting in bottlenecks and reduced productivity. Multiple systems mean additional work , such as duplicate data entries, which in turn causes errors and delays.

To maintain a competitive edge, you need to streamline processes and find better ways to access the information. Investing in the right Business Management Software can make an enormous difference in how efficiently and profitably your company runs. The right software can help you integrate all core functions within your business, automate processes, improve communication within everyone in your company, attract and retain customers, increase sales, and save time and money, which increases your financial strength and gives you the flexibility to respond quickly when business opportunities arise.