The Best Hardware and Software of 2024-2025

The technology landscape evolves rapidly, and staying informed about the latest advancements is essential for businesses looking to maintain a competitive edge. This week, we’re diving into five important updates in the world of business tech. From groundbreaking hardware and software to innovative features and practical solutions, here’s how these developments can impact your business decisions.

1. The Best Hardware and Software of 2024/2025

As businesses strive for efficiency and performance, selecting the right hardware and software is critical. This year’s top picks include high-performing laptops, desktops, processors, password managers, VPNs, backup solutions, and other essential technologies. Whether you’re running a small startup or managing a large enterprise, these tools are designed to meet the demands of modern work environments.

Why this matters to your business:
Having access to reliable, cutting-edge technology can significantly boost productivity and streamline operations. Investing in the best laptops or desktops ensures employees can work efficiently, while robust password managers and VPNs enhance cybersecurity. Backup solutions protect critical data from loss or breaches, ensuring business continuity. Bookmarking this list can help guide your purchasing decisions throughout the year, keeping your organization equipped with the tools it needs to thrive.

2. The Best Work-From-Home Tech of 2024/2025

Remote work continues to be a defining feature of the modern workplace. Katherine Stevenson from PCWorld recently unveiled a curated list of the best work-from-home tech for 2024/2025. The recommendations include budget-friendly laptops with impressive battery life, Chromebooks for lightweight computing, ergonomic keyboards, docking stations, and more.

Why this matters to your business:
With so many employees, freelancers, and entrepreneurs working remotely, it’s essential to provide them with reliable and efficient tools. Laptops with long battery life are perfect for employees on the move, while ergonomic accessories enhance comfort and productivity. These tools are not only functional but also cost-effective, making them an excellent choice for equipping your remote workforce without breaking the bank. Providing employees with the right tools can also improve morale and performance, ensuring a smoother workflow across teams.

3. New Features in QuickBooks Online Accountant

Intuit has introduced two new features in QuickBooks Online Accountant: automated call summaries and live cleanup services. The call summaries provide detailed logs of interactions between clients and QuickBooks Live Experts, helping users keep track of questions and responses. Meanwhile, the live cleanup service focuses on preparing clients’ books for tax season by categorizing transactions, correcting errors, and reconciling accounts. These cleanup tasks are typically completed within 30 days, with support from a QuickBooks-certified bookkeeper.

Why this matters to your business:
For accounting professionals, these features streamline processes and save time, allowing them to focus on higher-value tasks. For businesses that rely on QuickBooks Online, ensuring your accountant leverages these tools can lead to more accurate financial records and fewer billable hours. The call summaries improve communication, while the live cleanup service ensures books are ready for tax season, minimizing stress and potential errors. With a 30% discount available for ProAdvisors, these features are both practical and cost-effective for accounting practices and businesses alike.

4. LinkedIn Campaign Manager Updates: Introducing Companies Hub

LinkedIn has expanded its Campaign Manager tool with the introduction of the Companies Hub. This new feature provides B2B marketers with in-depth insights into how businesses interact with their brand. The Companies Hub includes metrics such as engagement levels, campaign performance, and both organic and paid interactions. Additionally, marketers can create custom audiences based on these insights and track the effectiveness of their campaigns in real time.

Why this matters to your business:
LinkedIn remains one of the most powerful platforms for B2B marketing, offering access to a highly engaged audience of professionals and decision-makers. The Companies Hub allows marketers to refine their strategies, target audiences more effectively, and measure the impact of their efforts. By leveraging this tool, businesses can maximize the ROI of their LinkedIn campaigns, gaining a competitive advantage in the crowded B2B marketing space. While LinkedIn advertising can be costly, the quality of leads and insights it provides often justifies the investment.

5. Transforming Google Sheets into Web Apps

Kevin Purdy of Ars Technica shared an innovative approach to simplifying workflows by turning Google Sheets into no-code web apps. Using tools like Glide, Purdy created custom apps for tasks such as managing takeout orders with improved search and filtering functions. These apps are easy to build, share, and install on various devices, making them an excellent solution for small-scale projects or personal use.

Why this matters to your business:
Efficiency is key to success, and no-code tools like Glide offer a simple way to optimize workflows. Encouraging employees to explore tools that streamline repetitive tasks can save time and resources, allowing teams to focus on more critical projects. Businesses that invest in technology-savvy employees—or hire experts to create custom web apps—can unlock new efficiencies and improve productivity. Whether it’s organizing data, tracking tasks, or simplifying processes, these tools demonstrate how creativity and curiosity can drive innovation in the workplace.

The Bigger Picture

Each of these updates highlights how technology continues to shape the way businesses operate. Whether it’s through smarter hardware and software choices, tools that empower remote workers, or innovative ways to optimize workflows, staying informed about these developments can give your organization a strategic edge.

As you plan for the year ahead, consider how these trends align with your business goals. Investing in the right technologies not only enhances productivity but also ensures your company remains agile and competitive in a rapidly evolving market.

We’ll continue to bring you the latest business tech news every week, breaking down how these developments impact your business. Stay tuned for more insights next week!