Technology and the Small Business

Nicole Butler is a self-described geek. She is also the owner of Nicole Made This, a small business specializing in handcrafted items such as soaps, lotions, scrubs and other spa items. She was kind enough to sit down with Deemable for an interview while setting up for Art Walk. Art Walk is a fun-filled event held the first Wednesday of every month in downtown Jacksonville that features local artists and vendors. It’s a great place to pick up one-of-a-kind items and visit Nicole. She’s in the Visitors’ Center on Laura Street across from Chamblin’s Bookmine.

DT: As a small business, how does technology help you compete with bigger businesses?

NB: A larger business is typically a less efficient “machine.”  As a very small organization, I can implement changes and improvements almost immediately.  Because I control all aspects of my electronic presence, I can carry those changes through my entire business within a matter of moments.  I have often joked that the ability to change with the times is imperative to growth and success – “adapt or die”.

Technology enables me to improve and evolve with the rapid pace of today’s market.

DT: What’s your favorite business app for the iPad?

NB: Square Register.  I can process payments and control my inventory and purchasing with the touch of a few buttons.

DT: How do you keep track of which products are most popular?

NB: I utilize the inventory controls in Square for in-person purchases, as well as the in-depth status tools available to me on Etsy.

DT: Do you connect with clients on Facebook, Twitter, Google+, or Pinterest?
 
NB: All of the above. Check out my links here: Facebook, Google+, Pinterest, and Etsy. I would love to connect with you. I prefer Etsy and Pinterest although Facebook and Google+ are great online tools!
 
I find as an artisan of specialty/niche products that I am better able to target my demographic market via Etsy and Pinterest whereas Facebook and Google+ tend to reach a much broader market. It’s a lot easier for me to get lost in the shuffle on Facebook or Google+ so I focus my energy on where I have the most success.
 
DT: What is the piece of technology you can’t live without?
 
NB: iPhone/iPad!
 
Know of a small business using technology in a super cool way? Have them email chrissydas (at) deemable (dot) com and she may feature them in a future post.
 
What piece of technology helps you get the job done? Tell us in the comments!

1 comment for “Technology and the Small Business

  1. Maria
    12/06/2012 at 5:42 PM

    Awesome! This lady really makes some great products with love in each package. As a loyal customer of Nicole Made This products, I implore everyone to sample her stuff. I especially love her baby shampoo for my daughter and anything she makes in the Bellini’s with Brunch , Lemon Grass or even the Fruit Loops scent! My daughter thoroughly enjoys her Bliss Bubble Bits where just a little makes a ton of bubbles for her baths. Nicole is incredibly professional and really knows her stuff! I highly recommend coming to sample goods at the next Art Walk or browse her website http://www.NicoleMadeThis.com !!!

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