To wrap things up, here are some final thoughts I had on this project. Through it all, it has been impossible to ignore Web presence, especially in the social networking frontier. Professor Rubin has discussed the power of sites like Twitter to take a small idea and make it into something global overnight, which, as a start-up can be invaluable.
Next, not to overlook my computer choice. The chapter on operating systems really made me think about how I want to start my company off on the right foot. Windows vs. Mac is a decision that is really a lot bigger than it seems, as it could effect a numerous amount of other decisions I'm going to have to make for the company in the near future.
And finally, all the key stuff about databases. Computers, at their core, are really functional databases and something that can't be overlooked. Starting a company now without having a clunky, oversized filing cabinet is crucial in order to stay organized and on top of everything.
Monday, April 5, 2010
Thursday, April 1, 2010
Chosing an operating system
Something I forgot to blog about a few weeks ago was choosing an operating system for my company. For practicality purposes we have basically two options, Macintosh or Windows. Given the fact that my company will weigh heavily on a sleek Web design, right away my mind tells me to lean toward a Mac instead of a PC.
At the newspaper I currently work for, all text editing is done on PCs and all design editing is done on Macs, which I have to admit, can handle a lot of abuse -- more than I'd originally thought. However, some tech bloggers I've read also suggest that a Mac costs a little more, and with such a low ceiling for start-up cash, that might have to come into consideration.
What it all comes down to is effectiveness comparing to cost. I'm in a hybrid business of journalism, design and printing. When reading the text and learning about the strengths of each, it's pretty clear that a Mac is the right choice for now despite a slightly higher cost. The Snow Leopard system Prof. Rubin showed in class and in the CNET video looks like it can handle what I'm looking for.
At the newspaper I currently work for, all text editing is done on PCs and all design editing is done on Macs, which I have to admit, can handle a lot of abuse -- more than I'd originally thought. However, some tech bloggers I've read also suggest that a Mac costs a little more, and with such a low ceiling for start-up cash, that might have to come into consideration.
What it all comes down to is effectiveness comparing to cost. I'm in a hybrid business of journalism, design and printing. When reading the text and learning about the strengths of each, it's pretty clear that a Mac is the right choice for now despite a slightly higher cost. The Snow Leopard system Prof. Rubin showed in class and in the CNET video looks like it can handle what I'm looking for.
Databases
Inventory, in general, will be a crucial factor to starting up a business. I'm anticipating a large amount of online orders, which means keeping them in an organized fashion can only benefit what I'm trying to do. If a customer has a problem or complaint, I can instantly inquire within the database and pull up their unique customer record.
The online database has its distinct advantages over the standard mom-and-pop file cabinet system. Given that I'm already an unorganized person, the massive amounts of paperwork would take up precious office space and make the work day even more difficult. Plus, orders are more easily lost, damaged or stolen, which is simply not an option.
A more current and practical use of the database could come with the advent of the new health care bill. Running a small business, I'll be responsible for all my employee's insurance. I can keep this in a separate thread in the person's individual file, separate from all of their work-related information in order to comply with government standards.
The online database has its distinct advantages over the standard mom-and-pop file cabinet system. Given that I'm already an unorganized person, the massive amounts of paperwork would take up precious office space and make the work day even more difficult. Plus, orders are more easily lost, damaged or stolen, which is simply not an option.
A more current and practical use of the database could come with the advent of the new health care bill. Running a small business, I'll be responsible for all my employee's insurance. I can keep this in a separate thread in the person's individual file, separate from all of their work-related information in order to comply with government standards.
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