Small Business Toolbox

A library of business management info


Procurement
  • The Buy-Versus-Lease Dilemma
    06/02/2008
    It's an age-old adage that entrepreneurs have been asking themselves for years: Should I rent it or buy it? Add to the mix today's tenuous economy and many small business owners are asking themselves that question more frequently and with added trepidation. In trying to answer this nagging question, some argue that there are a number of variables to consider. It's a subjective choice that is usually made on these factors:
    Business philosophy; financial obligations and growth.
  • Controlling Your Inventory
    08/03/2007
    Many production supervisors worry about the possibility of running short of parts or materials needed to meet production schedules. Likewise, sales representatives are sometimes haunted by the possibility of having insufficient finished goods available to satisfy current orders. Often, your business can overcome such fears of shortages by keeping generous supplies of everything on hand.
  • Balancing Staff With Supply and Demand
    04/28/2006
    Matching supply and demand in a service business can be tricky, but entrepreneurs can learn to balance the process through careful analysis.
  • Buying an Established Business: Getting What You Pay For
    12/27/2004
    Q: I have a chance to buy into a business and it seems like a good idea. It has a loyal clientele and the owner seems to be making money. What is the downside to this plan?
  • Five Ways to Cut Purchasing Costs
    02/05/2003
    At year-end review, most companies find that only total salaries exceed total annual purchasing costs, making this area a prime target for cutting.
  • Guidelines for Buying Used Equipment
    01/28/2003
    In a tight economy, many small businesses are discovering the benefits of buying used instead of new.
  • Purchasing New Technology During a Slowing Economy
    08/01/2002
    When new or upgraded business equipment is urgently needed, a slowing economy can offer bargains too good to pass up--if you search and buy wisely.
  • How to Safeguard Yourself When Buying Used Equipment
    04/15/2002
    Do you know the difference between equipment that has been "refurbished," "reconditioned," or "remanufactured?"
  • How Small Businesses Can Use Requests for Proposals
    04/02/2002
    The June 2000 issue of "Mobile Computing & Communications" contained an excellent article about creating and using Requests for Proposals (RFPs) when purchasing equipment.
  • Tips for Bidding a Project
    04/02/2002
    When you're bidding on a project or a long-term situation, you may be in competition with up to three or four other firms.
  • When Going With the Biggest May Not Be in Your Best Interest
    03/28/2002
    It's natural for businesses to want the best and biggest groups to represent their products. However, this isn't always the best option, today's Workshop explains.
  • Maximize Your Chances When Responding to an RFP, Part II
    03/22/2002
    Contributor Jeffrey Moses continues with his tips on this topic that is so vital for many independent businesses.
  • Maximize Your Chances When Responding to an RFP, Part I
    03/22/2002
    If your company becomes involved in a Request for Proposal process, there are specific issues that require careful attention.