/ Business
What software does a small business actually need?
Accounting, a shared calendar, a way to store files, a way to send invoices, and somewhere to track enquiries. That's it initially.
/ 01
The short version
Tool sprawl is a genuine cost — in subscriptions and in attention.
/ 02
What actually matters
- • Accounting: Xero, QuickBooks or FreeAgent.
- • Google Workspace or Microsoft 365 for email, files and calendar.
- • One place to track enquiries — spreadsheet is fine early.
- • Payment links: Stripe or your accounting tool.
- • Password manager. Non-negotiable.
/ 03
The bit most people get wrong
Every subscription you add is a small monthly tax on a business that may not need it. Audit annually.
/ 04
What to do next
List every software subscription and its monthly cost. Cancel anything you haven't opened in 60 days.
/ 05
Where RIOT fits in
We're a small Colchester studio helping UK SMBs get business tools right without agency waste or freelancer flake. If you've read this far and you want a second opinion on your specific setup, book a 20-minute call and we'll tell you honestly whether it's worth doing anything at all.
We work with clients across Essex, Suffolk, London and the wider UK — and remotely with brands abroad. No lock-in, no monthly retainer minimums, no pretending your problem is bigger than it is.
/ FAQs
Common questions
Do I need project management software?
Above three concurrent projects, it helps.
Free or paid tools?
Pay for accounting and email; free is fine for much else.
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Still not sure?
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