Linux as an Operating System for Small Business Networks

Business Network and Productivity Requirements

To remain competitive in today's fast-moving business environment, a company must operate as efficiently as possible. Any firm that fails to operate effectively will eventually lose its competitive position. Efficiency is especially critical for small and medium-sized businesses, whose resources are limited compared with those of large multinational corporations.

Provide employees with safe, consistent access to information. A small business holds an advantage over larger rivals because it can respond quickly to market changes. That edge disappears if the company network is regularly unavailable, slow, or insecure. A reliable, secure network built on capable routers and switches allows employees to access the information and tools they need to stay ahead of competitors.

Provide anytime, anywhere access for mobile employees. To remain productive, employees must be able to reach people and information whenever and wherever they need to. Tools such as virtual private networks (VPNs) allow staff to work outside the office while still enjoying secure access to the company network.

Develop efficient processes with partners. Many large firms require reliable, secure business processes as a condition of doing business with them. Meeting those requirements demands a dependable network infrastructure.

Make collaboration easy. Seamless collaboration among employees, partners, vendors, and customers is a proven way to improve productivity while reducing costs. A smart network enables a company to take advantage of interactive calendaring, videoconferencing, unified communications, and other technologies that support effortless teamwork.

Enable employees to take their phones anywhere. Missed calls create delays, lost opportunities, and reduced revenue. With a networked voice and data solution, employees can have a single number that rings simultaneously on multiple devices, ensuring that customers always reach the right person. Staff can also access all communications — email, voicemail, and faxes — from a single unified inbox, from any location.

Improve customer relationships. Providing fast, competent service is the best way to keep customers satisfied. Connecting the network phone system to a customer relationship management (CRM) solution can significantly enhance customer interactions. When a customer calls, a pop-up window displaying their records appears on the employee's IP phone screen, computer screen, or both.

Minimize unproductive travel time. Time spent on the road is often time lost. A networked phone solution that supports video calls and Internet conferencing can reduce the time and cost associated with traveling to off-site meetings and training sessions, allowing employees to use that time more productively.

Consider a managed service provider. Network management is not always the best use of internal IT staff time. In some situations, outsourcing network management to a managed service provider allows the IT team to focus on higher-value tasks and use their skills more effectively.

The Case for Linux in Small Business

Enhance employee satisfaction. Outdated phone systems and slow networks frustrate employees and irritate customers alike. In some cases, dissatisfied employees may choose to leave. A secure, reliable, and fast network helps ensure that staff remain productive and engaged.

Create a long-term technology plan. Replacing outdated hardware can disrupt employees and bring operations to a halt. Disruptions can be minimized by carefully identifying short- and long-term business goals and working with a network supplier to adopt technologies that align with them.

Software acquisition costs can be a significant burden for small businesses, which must pay licensing fees for proprietary operating systems in addition to other application costs. Linux is an excellent option for small business computing. Companies can choose from free community distributions or commercially supported releases. Linux also provides a wide range of software applications that can replace proprietary alternatives. Users can install software easily through standard package repositories, find solutions to problems through active online and offline communities, and select application packages suited to their specific needs. Adopting Linux allows a small business to redirect software licensing costs toward other operational priorities.