While every business is saving on marketing by utilizing their greatest tool - free social media accounts - your company can save a lot more. Utilizing the world of online for your regular business needs can save not only money, but time as well. There are a number of ways to take advantage of the internet, so consider these five.

Inner and Outer Communications

A productive office is one that is communicating at all times of the day. Your employees often work better in teams, especially if you employ a significant amount of Gen-Yers. Having successful and continued communication is simple when you employ the tools of the internet.

• Google: Get your business email setup through Gmail, and utilize free Gchat which is built into the program. All employees can talk at any point in the day, even outside the office, making it easy to strategize and collaborate.


• VOIP Phone systems: There's been a lot of talk about the switch to VOIP many businesses are making. Teleconferencing abilities and minimal upkeep makes it an ideal option.

Incorporating Your Business

Often times, small businesses don't want to incorporate because it's expensive in both time and money. Not only do you have to involve a lawyer and accountant, but then you'll need to file the paperwork which costs money as well. The entire process can be daunting for a small business, thus incorporating online can be a better choice.

• Paperwork: Fill out the forms online and hit submit - this takes everything out of your hands, freeing up time for your business.


• Nix the professionals: Instead of hiring a lawyer, the online companies will check over the forms for you, ensuring you're compliant with legal regulations. However, be sure to have a decent knowledge of incorporation before entrusting another company to do it, in the off chance problems arise.

Organization Opportunities

A growing business means more customers, more paperwork, more employees - all of which need to be organized. However, you may be operating with CRM software, help desk software, time and attendance software - the list can go on. Avoid spending time and money with each separate program, and opt for downloading an all-in-one online option.

• Flexibility: With programs online, you can access them anywhere. If you're on the go, you can bring up customer paperwork on your phone; this could be the difference between keeping them and losing their business.


• Maintenance: With online software, there is minimal maintenance. Often, you'll get an update notification, click a link and be on your way. Without an IT person on staff, this is ideal.

Online Retailing

If you don't have the money to open a storefront, you can utilize the internet to sell your items. Not only is buying a domain and ecommerce site cheaper than rent, but it's easier to upkeep too. Although SalesChase.com reported that only 9% of commerce is currently handled online, it's a new movement taking hold in the retail world.

• Retail services: Don't know how to set up your website? Online companies like BigCommerce offer affordable options for full site development.

Product Promotion

According to Gloople, 40% of Twitter users search for products or services through Twitter. Getting your promotions online will allow you to take the marketing efforts into your own hands, avoiding the need to hire a costly ad agency. By using tools such as SEO, you can reach new and current customers at all times.

• Social promotion: By providing social buttons for your website, customers can share the items they've purchased or want on popular social sites - saving money by letting them do the marketing for you.


• Printing: If you are utilizing direct marketing, consider hiring an online printing service. Online accounts often let you test out more than one idea; saving the money it would cost to do it over on the off chance you aren't happy with the product.

By using online tools and companies, you can be sure to save a significant amount of not just money, but time as well. As a growing business, cutting costs wherever possible is certainly an ideal option, and one that is absolutely viable.

Author Bio: Jessica Sanders is an avid small business writer touching on topics that range from social media to business management. She is a professional blogger and web content writer for ResourceNation.com.

Image credit: o5com on Flickr