As business owners we attempt to keep the balance between quality and cost effectiveness – meaning, if it’s free ‘HOW GOOD IS IT REALLY?’ Now, don’t misunderstand me, I like free, but it must be weighed against quality. Which brings me to the point of this blog – “Open Source Computing” or the new buzz word “cloud computing”? I read a great article in smallbusinesscomputing.com which listed numerous open source “cloud” platforms. The author tempered his article with sage advice “this may not be the best decision for all business owners” – translation: proceed with caution. We all want to save a few bucks, but not at the cost of our reputation. My favorite – and currently only – open source platform is PDF creator – works great! And of course, it’s free!

What are your favorites? Do you use open source software exclusively, not at all, or a mixture of both? Inquiring minds want to know? Leave your comments, suggestions, and opinions @ www.setufreeva.com/blog.

As a new business owner there are several sources for assistance, both free and fee-based, for business development, exploring business structure options and other business advisement and coaching. I found a great free resource for my budding virtual business in the Local Development Center of East New York (LCD), one of the Small Business Administration resource partners through the Women’s Business Center. I received business guidance and encouragement in solidifying my focus-market (financial services and technology), consolidating my list of services (word-processing, project management/organization, event planning) and assistance with business plan development. The LDC also invites guest speakers such as lawyers, financial advisors and an overview of book-keeping systems.

What sources did you or do you utilize in your business development? Feel free to share your free or low cost business development resources.