Here are 6 practical strategies to reduce software-related expenses without sacrificing functionality:
Switch to one-time payment tools:
Appsumo is a treasure trove of software options that might be the ticket for you. For example, if you use Calendly, Acuity or another scheduler and are paying monthly or annually, there’s a new scheduler in town. TidyCal, is currently on sale for a one-time payment of $29.
Ask those techy friends you know for ideas. A trusted colleague introduced me to SimplyBook.me, for those who offer classes or have a spa or salon. It’s a cost-savings over software like Sawyer or Acuity. It’s highly customizable and comes in at approximately a third of the price of the more well-known options.
Utilize Free Communication Platforms:
If you use Microsoft office or Google Workspace you could replace Zoom for your meetings with Microsoft Teams or Google Meet. This could shave off $150/year or more. Check those all-in ones you’re using and see if you can make a switch for savings.
Opt for Open-Source or Low-Cost Alternatives:
If you are not in a highly regulated industry, such as the legal or medical field, you have some options for open-source software. There’s Libre Office that’s an open-source option for Microsoft office.
Google docs, sheets and slides are another option to replace the software giant and their annual rate that keeps climbing every year. Google Meet now offers recording your meetings when you have the Business Standard plan or higher of Google Workspace; plans start at $12/mo. With all the features Google offers it’s an option worth considering.
Bundle Services or Team up with a group:
There are some all-in-one options that can cut down on costs as well. Zoho is one such service that offers a suite of services that you can customize for your business. Google Workspace is another one. All-in-one platforms such as: Kajabi, Hubspot, or GoHiLevel offer bundled services to help keep your costs lower.
Canva offers a team plan which leads to significant savings on their annual pro plan. You can have up to 5 team members and can keep separate folders but get all the bells and whistles of the pro plan. Team up with some like-minded people you trust, and this could save you over $100 a year.
Automate or Simplify Operations:
Using tools to automate some operations can help eliminate the need for certain programs. For example you can add an automation with Zapier, Make or Integrately for some of the features you may get with the big brands. Don’t forget to check your software features to ensure you aren’t paying for redundant services.
Regular Software Audits:
Keep on top of your software systems to see if they are truly necessary. Have you used them recently? Are there any systems you could downgrade to a lower tier? Has your business gone in a new direction so that some tools are no longer needed?
In conclusion, by looking at your systems to decide what is necessary and what you can simplify, you can keep more money in your pocket or invest it in more strategic ways.
One word of caution, sometimes saving a few bucks isn’t worth the time investment. Look for systems that offer an easy integration, which saves you time when switching. For example, Mailerlite offered an import feature and I was able to import my subscribers from Mailchimp into Mailerlite in minutes. With a little research, you might be able to save more time and money than you think.
What ways have you learned to cut business expenses? Have questions or comments, hit reply and let me know.