Cutting costs is always a good idea, but what better time is there to make sure you are being cost-effective than the holidays? Everyone can use extra money near Christmas-time, and for many businesses, it is the extra spending during these months that can help make up a deficit in other months. Here are some tips to help you cut costs without cutting corners this Christmas:
• Make sure your software solutions for business are as current and efficient as possible. For instance, if you are a custom clothing company, you should have up-to-date apparel ERP software or screen-printing equipment software. Having software that was designed for award companies or another industry will end up slowing down your workflow and costing you money in the end.
• Go to Walmart, Costco, Target or Sam’s Club, when you need office supplies fast, instead of going to Staples or Office Depot. While these office supply stores are guaranteed to have what you need, they usually charge more for the convenience and larger selection. If you need a larger resupply, buy items in bulk from a discount store. Also make sure pencils, pens and other small items aren’t getting lost or stolen.
• As far as larger office equipment goes, like copy machines, screen-printing equipment, and other machines, you need to make sure you are able to run your business efficiently, but you shouldn’t buy new pieces just to update. Use your machines until they are unusable, and if you only copy things a couple times a month, put it in your budget to copy at Staples, instead of buying a new machine.