Getting Started

At Zoho’s SMZ 2025 event, collaboration was the word of the day — but Zoho is giving that idea a whole new meaning with Vani, its intelligent visual collaboration platform. I sat down with Aarthi Elizabeth Anbu, Product Marketing Manager at Zoho, to learn how Vani reimagines teamwork for small businesses that juggle multiple tools, tasks, and time zones. Where Knowledge Begins When asked about the name, Aarthi smiled. “There is an Indian goddess called Saraswati, who is the goddess of knowledge and learning,” she explained. “So Vani is another name for her. Because this is where knowledge begins, where brainstorming starts, so that’s why Vani.” That origin fits the plat…

For small businesses constantly juggling communication across tools, documents, and meetings, Zoho’s newest product aims to simplify how teams work together. The company has launched Vani — an intelligent visual collaboration platform that turns brainstorming, planning, and execution into one seamless, shared experience. Vani introduces a visual-first workspace designed to replace the patchwork of apps that small businesses often rely on for project management, whiteboarding, and communication. Instead of hopping between spreadsheets, slides, and chat threads, teams can collaborate on what Zoho calls an “infinite canvas” — a digital space where ideas, data, and discussio…

Before you kick off a new project, it’s crucial to follow a structured approach to guarantee its success. Start by clearly comprehending the project’s core objectives and defining everyone’s roles. Next, set SMART goals that align with your organization’s vision. You’ll additionally need to plan the scope, build a timeline, and decide on effective reporting methods. By managing expectations and maintaining open communication, you can proactively address potential challenges that may arise. What comes next is fundamental for a smooth execution. Key Takeaways Schedule a kick-off meeting to clarify project objectives and ensure alignment among all stakeholders. Create a …

Cloud inventory management software is an influential tool that helps you track and manage stock in real time, accessible from any device with internet connectivity. It integrates with existing systems, like accounting or e-commerce platforms, to streamline processes and minimize errors. By automatically updating stock levels and generating purchase orders when needed, it improves inventory control. Comprehending how it works and its benefits can greatly impact your business operations and efficiency. Key Takeaways Cloud inventory management software tracks and manages stock in real time via a cloud-based platform accessible from any internet-connected device. It inte…

In relation to employee retention, comprehending their needs is vital. You should consider asking five important questions in your surveys. These inquiries can reveal insights about career development, managerial support, work-life balance, recognition, and specific areas for improvement. By focusing on these aspects, you can create a more engaged workforce. Nonetheless, the challenge lies in crafting these questions effectively to obtain meaningful responses. Let’s explore how to do this. Key Takeaways What opportunities for career development do you value most, and how can we support your growth? How satisfied are you with the support and feedback you receive from y…

Operational Risk Management (ORM) is vital for organizations aiming to minimize losses from internal and external failures. It helps you identify potential risks, streamline processes, and improve overall decision-making. By nurturing a culture of awareness, ORM not just supports compliance and efficiency but furthermore builds stakeholder trust. Grasping its components and processes is important for effective implementation. Are you aware of the specific steps that can strengthen your organization’s ORM framework? Key Takeaways Operational Risk Management (ORM) minimizes losses from inadequate internal processes, human errors, systems, or external events through a st…

The break-even point formula is crucial for determining how much you need to sell to cover your costs. By calculating total fixed costs divided by the difference between sales price per unit and variable cost per unit, you identify the minimum sales volume required to avoid losses. Comprehending this formula not only aids you in setting pricing strategies but also directs operational decisions. Exploring its components and applications can greatly improve your financial planning. Key Takeaways The break-even point (BEP) formula is: Total Fixed Costs ÷ (Sales Price per Unit – Variable Cost per Unit). It determines the minimum sales volume needed to cover expenses and avo…

Creating a brand identity is crucial for establishing a unique presence in the market. To start, you’ll need to define your brand’s purpose, values, and target audience. This foundational comprehension guides your messaging and visual elements. Next, you’ll design key components like a logo and color palette. Once these elements are in place, you’ll need to guarantee consistency across platforms. Grasping these steps will help you build a strong brand identity that resonates with your audience. Key Takeaways Define your brand purpose and values to establish a clear foundation for your identity. Conduct market research to identify your target audience and create detail…

In today’s competitive environment, automating business processes is crucial for maximizing efficiency. By incorporating tools like CRM software, project management platforms, and AI-driven chatbots, you can streamline operations and improve productivity. These solutions not merely reduce repetitive tasks but likewise improve accuracy in areas like invoicing and customer service. As you explore these automation options, consider how each tool can particularly benefit your organization. The right choice could transform your workflow considerably. Key Takeaways Automation tools enhance productivity by streamlining repetitive tasks, allowing teams to focus on strategic i…

At SuiteWorld 2025 in Las Vegas, Oracle NetSuite unveiled its latest AI-driven innovation designed to help subscription-based businesses—especially those in the SaaS and technology sectors—gain sharper visibility into their financial and operational performance. The new solution, NetSuite Subscription Metrics, provides finance leaders with a unified, AI-powered dashboard that turns complex subscription data into actionable insights. For small business owners managing recurring revenue models—whether for software, online memberships, or services—this new feature could make it easier to monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) without juggling multiple spreadsheets or rep…

Designing your business starts with refining your idea and grasping your target audience. You’ll need to draft a thorough business plan that includes your mission and market analysis. Next, it’s essential to assess your finances and choose an appropriate business structure. By following these steps, you can set a solid foundation for your venture. But there’s more to reflect on, especially regarding legal requirements and team building. Key Takeaways Clearly define your business purpose and conduct audience research to identify market needs and consumer preferences. Draft a comprehensive business plan that includes an executive summary, market analysis, and financial …

At SuiteWorld 2025 in Las Vegas, Oracle NetSuite unveiled “NetSuite Next,” its most ambitious evolution yet of the cloud ERP platform. The company says the new version is designed to make artificial intelligence feel less like a tool and more like an active business partner—one that listens, reasons, and takes action. For small business owners juggling financials, inventory, payroll, and customer data, NetSuite Next promises something rare in enterprise software: simplicity without sacrificing power. Oracle calls it “collaborative, insightful, adaptive, and trustworthy.” In practice, that means AI features that automate repetitive tasks, flag risks before they become pro…

Artificial intelligence is moving deeper into the core of business software—and Oracle NetSuite is giving small businesses new ways to take advantage of it. At SuiteWorld 2025 in Las Vegas, Oracle NetSuite announced major updates to its SuiteCloud Platform, introducing a wave of new AI capabilities that make it easier for companies to build, connect, and control intelligent tools inside their NetSuite environments. For small business owners already using NetSuite—or considering an ERP solution that adapts to their workflows—this expansion could mean faster automation, smarter insights, and less time spent managing repetitive tasks. The goal, according to Oracle NetSuite …

At this year’s SuiteWorld conference in Las Vegas, Oracle NetSuite unveiled major updates to its SuiteCloud Developer Network (SDN), marking another step toward accelerating artificial intelligence (AI) adoption among businesses. The updates aim to help partners build, verify, and deliver AI-powered applications faster—potentially giving small and midsize businesses (SMBs) new ways to automate workflows, strengthen compliance, and enhance decision-making through trusted AI integrations. For small business owners already using or considering NetSuite’s cloud ERP, the announcement signals a clear shift: AI is no longer just an optional add-on—it’s becoming an embedded part…

For small business owners constantly juggling invoices, bills, and cash flow, managing payments can be a time-consuming headache. Oracle NetSuite and BILL want to change that. The two companies have joined forces to create a more streamlined and secure way for U.S. businesses to handle accounts payable, right from within NetSuite’s AI-powered cloud ERP platform. Announced at SuiteWorld 2025 in Las Vegas, the new integration—known as NetSuite Intelligent Payment Automation powered by BILL—aims to help businesses speed up payments, reduce human error, and cut down on administrative overhead. For small businesses that rely on limited staff or manual accounting, the partners…

When managing stock, choosing the right software can greatly improve your efficiency. The top seven solutions—Blaze.tech, NetSuite, Zoho Inventory, Fishbowl, Cin7, QuickBooks Commerce, and Lightspeed—each offer distinct features that cater to various business needs. For instance, Blaze.tech provides no-code customization, whereas NetSuite integrates all-encompassing ERP capabilities. Grasping how these platforms facilitate inventory accuracy and streamline order fulfillment is vital for optimizing your operations. Let’s explore what each solution brings to the table. Key Takeaways Blaze.tech offers a no-code platform for customized inventory management with automation…

Job onboarding is the structured process that helps new employees adjust to their roles and the company culture. It provides vital tools and information, which can lead to higher retention rates and improved performance. Effective onboarding not just boosts productivity but additionally cultivates connections within the team, eventually reducing turnover costs. Comprehending its key components and the strategies for implementation is significant. What specific elements contribute to a successful onboarding experience? Key Takeaways Job onboarding is the integration process for new hires, helping them understand their roles and company culture. Effective onboarding can…

In e-commerce, “order fulfilled” means the seller has completed the entire order processing cycle, which involves confirming payment, picking, packing, and shipping the items to the customer. This term indicates that the seller has met their obligations, passing responsibility to the logistics provider for shipping. Comprehending the nuances of this process is essential, as it directly impacts customer satisfaction and brand loyalty. So, what factors influence effective order fulfillment? Key Takeaways Order fulfilled in e-commerce means the seller has completed processing the order, including payment confirmation, picking, packing, and shipping the product. Once an o…

When considering what traits define employees who perform well in training, several key characteristics stand out. Enthusiasm to learn is essential, as it drives engagement and retention of information. Adaptability allows individuals to adjust to new concepts, whereas effective communication skills help clarify comprehension. A strong sense of accountability encourages ownership of progress, and a proactive nature nurtures initiative. These traits, along with attention to detail and resilience, create a solid foundation for success in skill acquisition. What other qualities might similarly contribute to effective training outcomes? Key Takeaways A strong eagerness to…

Small business owners are always on the lookout for innovative ways to enhance their brand visibility and reach new customers. Google Gemini’s latest initiative, the Global AI Film Award, offers a promising avenue for small enterprises to leverage artificial intelligence (AI) in creative storytelling, potentially expanding their marketing horizons and audience engagement. The newly launched Global AI Film Award is now accepting applications, and it presents an exciting opportunity for individuals and businesses alike to showcase their creativity using Google AI tools. With the rise of short-form video content, this competition encourages filmmakers to harness the power o…

Small business owners, take note: a recent federal case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of diligence and integrity in securing financial relief during crises. Harold Dotson, a Maryland accountant, has been sentenced to three years in federal prison for orchestrating a scheme that defrauded COVID-19 relief programs out of over $24 million. U.S. District Judge Richard D. Bennett handed down the sentence, which includes three years of supervised release and six months of home confinement. Dotson’s actions, driven by greed, involved crafting fraudulent applications for the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) and the Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program, bo…

Amazon has rolled out a new private-label grocery brand called Amazon Grocery, combining its popular Amazon Fresh and Happy Belly products into one cohesive line. This latest initiative promises to deliver high-quality food items at everyday low prices, making it an appealing option for both consumers and small business owners looking to stretch their grocery budgets. Jason Buechel, Vice President of Amazon Worldwide Grocery Stores and CEO of Whole Foods Market, remarked, “With Amazon Grocery, we’re simplifying how customers discover and shop our extensive private label food selection while maintaining the quality and value our customers expect and deserve.” The brand fe…

Brand strategy consulting is vital for defining how your brand is perceived in the market. It helps align your brand with business goals, ensuring it stands out among competitors. By leveraging data-driven insights, you can create a cohesive message that resonates with both customers and employees. Comprehending this process is critical for building loyalty and driving growth. So, what are the core elements that make a brand strategy effective? Key Takeaways Brand strategy consulting shapes cohesive brand identities that resonate with consumers and employees, aligning brands with business objectives. It is essential for navigating market fluctuations, enhancing custom…

In relation to talent training and development, grasping the nuances between training and development is essential. Training often focuses on specific skills needed for current roles, whereas development prepares employees for future opportunities. By aligning initiatives with employee needs and organizational goals, you can create effective programs that improve engagement and retention. Nevertheless, measuring success is significant to guarantee these efforts yield meaningful results. What strategies can you implement to cultivate a culture of continuous learning? Key Takeaways Conduct thorough assessments to identify specific training needs and align programs with …

E-commerce fulfillment is the process that handles online order management and delivery, including inventory management, order processing, and shipping. This aspect is vital for your business, as it directly influences customer satisfaction through delivery speed and accuracy. With many shoppers prioritizing free and fast shipping, comprehending the intricacies of fulfillment can set you apart from competitors. So, what are the key components and strategies that can improve your fulfillment process? Key Takeaways E-commerce fulfillment is the complete process from order placement to delivery, including warehousing, order processing, and shipping. Efficient fulfillment…