Looking for a smart calendering solution, but not interested in the overhead of running your own Exchange or other application on your office server? I have used Google’s calendar application for a few years now and have been pleased overall. It is part of their suite of web applications that allow you to both track your own emails, documents, and events, but it becomes more powerful when you start to share these things with others. Now you can have a shared calendar for workplace events, meetings, and deadlines. Learn about Google Calendar and other small business applications at http://www.google.com/a/smallbiz/.

Driving a couple extra miles to the Ace Hardware store I began thinking about consumer and business purchasing decisions. Many businesses, especially in the retail space, are struggling with maintaining their customer base. Consumers are becoming more informed about pricing and competing services through the Internet and media. How does a business attract and maintain repeat customers?

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