Q: Select the areas in which software could most improve your operations. Then, research software and software packages (groups of interconnected programs) that meet your needs and fit within your budget. Be sure to not blow your whole budget on software, as you still need to purchase hardware and pay for incidental costs like employee training, system installation, and security software. Be sure to investigate open-source software. It may not have all of the features you need in some cases, but it is free and might serve as a good introduction to computerization. Programs like SugarCRM (for customer management) and Simple Invoices (for invoicing) are available for free online. Check your software packages for hardware requirements. Be sure to note required processing power, memory (RAM), graphics cards, and operating system. In most cases, the software will list minimum requirements, so you might consider shooting a bit higher so that your system doesn't need to be upgraded if you decide to change software in a few years. Knowing what type of hardware power you need will help guide your computer search. Consult with a computer expert, explain the processes of your business and ask for hardware recommendations. The type of business you run, the amount of information you must process and save, and the speed with which the data must be accessed are all important considerations in choosing computer hardware. Most of the money you spend will likely be on personal computers for you and your employees. Your first choice is between desktops and laptops. Both provide the same capabilities (unless you need very powerful hardware to run complex programs), but laptops are most expensive. However, they also offer more flexibility and might encourage collaboration (employees can move around the office with laptops). Remember to also look into peripherals for your computer, if needed. For example, you might need additional monitors, printers, external hard drives, scanners, or tablets for certain programs or to aid in your operations. After making decisions about hardware and software options, arrange for the computers to be installed. If it is a small office, the task may be as simple as plugging in the computers yourself. If the hardware or software company you purchased from offers installation, be sure to take advantage of this. Make sure your systems are up and running before the installer leaves. If your computers must be connected to one another to share documents, set up a network. Hire a temporary or permanent network administrator to set this up for you. Consult with a computer security specialist to select the best antivirus software. Explore software options for securing confidential data like customer payment information and employee personal information. You should buy a program that provides protection like antivirus, firewall, and network intrusion detection. For more data-sensitive businesses, you can take it a step further with various encryption and employee identification tools.
A: Choose the right software or software package. Identify your hardware needs. Research computer hardware options. Arrange for computer installations. Secure your computer system.

Q: Show the higher-ups that your goals align with the goals of the company. Stuffing envelopes or filing paperwork may seem below your skill level, but remind yourself that your work is important and may lead to company sales. Bringing an executive their morning coffee may seem far removed from your goal of being an executive, but it will allow you to build interpersonal relationships and will help the executive to better perform daily tasks. Build positive relationships with people at all levels of the company. One of your co-workers may become your boss some day. A colleague with whom you have a personality clash may wind up in a position to chime in about your suitability for a promotion. Treat everyone with respect and fairness, and they will be likely to pay you respect in return. Show your appreciation for others. Acknowledge the contributions of colleagues who help you solve difficult problems. When leading others, let them know that you appreciate their individual strengths. Greet people warmly. Whether in an elevator with a top executive or standing in the company cafeteria line with an employee from another department, take the opportunity to introduce yourself and strike up conversation. It might be tempting to skip the company's holiday event, but attending such social gatherings will allow you to interact with a wide variety of company employees. It will also increase your visibility and your chances of being viewed as an integral member of the company. Lighten your boss' workload by offering to oversee a small project. Stay late to master new software, make sales calls, or organize paperwork. Make sure that the additional tasks that you pursue contribute to greater productivity without jeopardizing your relationships with colleagues. Avoid stepping on other people's toes or crossing boundaries. Your goal is not to outdo your supervisor or to highlight the inadequacy of your colleagues, but rather to offer vital support.
A:
Demonstrate your commitment. Network with co-workers. Attend company-wide social functions. Take on additional responsibilities.