Up in the Cloud(s)...tools for small business

We all know that technology is constantly changing and improving, but as time goes on, the evolution is becoming more rapid.  Plus side?  That new smartphone you got can do cooler and cooler things.  Down side?  That new smartphone you got has a newer, cooler version coming out in a few months.  Speaking of smartphones with virtual cloud storage, have you noticed how there has been an explosion to "Cloud" technology? 

Cloud computing has existed for a while, but it is now front and center as an option for everyone everywhere to use to access documents, music, applications, and other types of data, as long as they have access to the Internet.  I'm no expert, but it seems like there has never been a better selection of web-based tools for small businesses.  Cloud based technology tools are now much more cost-effective (or even better, free) and allow small businesses access to customer relationship management systems (CRMs), remote desktop tools, online collaboration tools, accounting tools, and many office applications .  Here are a few that a fledgling business should try (and no, I am not being paid to say this, I've just found them to be useful, particularly because they have mobile apps):

• FreshBooks
  Cloud Accounting solution that helps you track time, record expenses, and easily bill/invoice clients.  Free version starts with 3 clients.
  
  

• DropBox
  Online storage for documents, photos, and videos that allows you to collaborate or share. Free account starts with 2GB and many mobile applications are being developed to integrate with DropBox
  
  
• SugarSync
  A slightly more sophisticated file sharing and online storage tool.  Free account starts with 5GB.

• MailChimp
  An easy way to design and send out your marketing communications to customers, with the option to link your messages to social media (Facebook, Twitter, & LinkedIn).  Free account allows a list of up to 2,000 contacts.

I'll share more tools as I learn and try them.  In the meantime, if you feel like doing some extra reading on cloud based tools for small business, here are a few articles:

• Forbes Magazine - 30 Terrific Tools for Small Business