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What’s The Best Software Stack for SMBs?

Check out StackPlan.com’s guide showcasing the best tech stacks for SMBs and what to consider when making technical decisions

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Wondering how to build the best software stack for your business? Choosing the wrong technology can stunt your business before it has a chance to grow, so it’s not a decision to make lightly.
Whether you’re a start-up looking for the best software solutions for an MVP or an established business planning a digital transformation, this guide will show you the best tech stacks for SMBs and what to consider when making technical decisions.

Software Stack Meaning?

software stack example

A software stack (or app stack, as we like to call them) is a collection of tools, apps, and technologies that work together to run and manage business operations.

For example, a tech stack of an eCommerce business would look like this:
  • Commerce platform (e.g., Shopify, BigCommerce)
  • Email marketing platform (Klaviyo, MailChimp)
  • Inventory management software (Fishbowl, Cin7)
  • Shipping software
  • Accounting software
  • Tax software
It’s called a “stack” because each component is layered and plays a supportive role. If one element of the stack goes down, it can have a knock-on effect on other layers.
It’s not impossible to change a software stack in the middle of a project or technology roadmap, but it is incredibly difficult. Therefore, it’s much better to select the right tech stack before significant developments or growth occurs.

How Do You Build a Software Stack?

With so many different software options on the market, building an effective software stack can feel overwhelming. What works for your competitor may not work for your business, so it’s not as simple as choosing the leading apps and hoping they work well together.
Here’s a quick blueprint for building a software stack to support your long-term business goals.

1. Consult with a software expert

There are many crucial factors to consider when building a software stack, so we always recommend working with a dedicated software implementation expert.

An expert will review your current processes, assess your business, and recommend the right apps and configurations for your needs.
This takes all of the guesswork and research out of software stacking and ensures you end up with a functional, effective stack for your business.

2. Understand your business goals

Do you plan on introducing digital or physical products? Perhaps you want to expand into different geographical locations? Or maybe you simply have too many manual processes, and you want to streamline operations.
Understanding your current processes and mapping out your long-term business goals is a critical step in building a solid software stack.

If your small business doesn’t have a technology roadmap, now is the time to create one. This will help you plan out your technology goals and show you exactly what software you need now and in the future.

3. Plan for scalability

Are you planning to scale your business in the future? If so, this should be a priority when choosing your software stack.
There’s nothing more frustrating than periods of business growth being stunted by ineffective software. Whether it’s accounting software or an eCommerce platform, choose technology that can scale with your business.

4. Finding the right integrations

You likely already have software tools your business relies on, so any new software needs to integrate with these legacy systems.
If your new technology doesn’t integrate, you’ll be faced with complex customizations or adding integration software to your stack as a workaround.

How to Choose The Best Software Stack

If you’re not familiar with software stack configurations, this is where a tech advisor will shine.

When you work with a vetted software consultant you find through StackPlans, here’s how they will help you build an effective tech stack:

  • Assess your business operations and goals
  • Recommend an effective software stack configuration
  • Offer support with data migration, training, and support

1. Assess your business operations and goals

Your tech advisor needs to clearly understand your starting point, pain points, and goals to support you through a digital transformation.
Through detailed assessments, you’ll get tailored advice on where to upgrade your current systems, how to best implement new software, and improve cash flow.

2. Recommend the best software stack options

Next, it’s time to evaluate the potential tech stack options. Some things to consider here are:
  • Budget
    More complex tech stacks cost more to implement and run.
  • Employee skill level
    How much training will you need to get staff comfortable with new processes?
  • Existing software 
    Any new apps or technologies should integrate with existing products.
A software implementation expert will explain the pros and cons of different tech stacks and show you the time and money investment required.

3. Software implementation support

The most valuable aspect of working with a tech advisor is support through implementation. StackPlans’ research shows that 33% of self-implementations fail, resulting in costly returns to original processes.
A tech advisor will support your business through implementation, handle staff training, and ensure your team makes the most out of every software feature.

Technology Stack Examples

At StackPlan, we have an entire tech directory filled with proven app stacks for a range of industries and businesses just like yours.
Here are a few examples of software stacks that our vetted tech advisors recommend.

eCommerce Workflow

Software stack breakdown:

  • Cin7 Core
    (inventory management, order management, manufacturing automation, retail, and wholesale operations).
  • Xero & Quickbooks
    (payroll, invoicing, bookkeeping, report generation, and expense tracking).
  • Adobe Commerce
    (product catalogs, inventory tracking, promotions, shopper and personalization).
  • HubSpot CRM
    (manage customer data, sales, marketing, and more). Shopify (shopfront).
  • Stripe & Pinch
    (payment processing).
  • Make
    (workflow automation).
This complete eCommerce software stack ensures your inventory, sales, and financial data are perfectly synchronized, providing a unified view of your business operations.
It works for businesses in eCommerce, manufacturing, food processing, wholesale, retail, and more.

Design Agencies

Software stack breakdown:

  • Workflow Max
    (all-in-one project management software).
  • Xero & BILL
    (invoicing, bookkeeping, report generation, and expense tracking).
  • Gusto
    (payroll and human resources software).
  • Stripe
    (payment processing).
This simple yet impactful software stack helps design agencies thrive. Workflow Max is an extensive project management tool that handles project tracking and costing, time tracking, team collaboration, and more.

Automotive Industries

Software stack breakdown:

  • MechanicDesk
    (workshop management software).
  • Mailchimp
    (client communication, email marketing).
  • Crystal Payroll
    (payroll software).
  • Windcave
    (credit card payment processing and recurring payments).
  • Shopify
    (shopfront)
  • Xero
    (invoicing, bookkeeping, report generation, and expense tracking).
This is a bespoke software stack for automotive businesses. With a dedicated workshop app and seamless payment processing tools, this tech stack makes scaling any workshop-based business effortless.
Case Studies: Check out some specific software stack examples for SMBs here.

How to Choose the Right Software Stack for Your SMB

Choosing the right software stack can feel overwhelming for small business owners in any industry. With seemingly countless software options to choose from, choosing the wrong tool could stall your business goals.

Fortunately, StackPlans has you covered. We’ll help you find the software solutions that truly align with your business goals. With our recommended software configurations and vetted tech advisors, software selection has never been easier.

Want to stay in the loop?

Join the StackPlan community today and learn more about how to build your technology roadmap, select the right software for your organization, and work with an expert tech advisor to get your software working in harmony.

Tradify

Tradify is a cloud-based job management solution designed for trade businesses, including electricians, plumbers, builders, and other service professionals.

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