Q: We often think of small business technology as being communication-oriented, with websites, email, mobile devices, etc. Is this definition too narrow?

A: There are two sides to small business technology - the specific technologies we use every day, but also the aspect of how we use the technology in our business. For example, we have a web site, but is it optimized for mobile readers? Or, we have a contact management system, but is there some marketing automation built in?

Q: Small business technology seems to advance on a daily basis. What are some ways to stay current on relevant innovations without being overwhelmed?

A: Subscribe to one or two magazines, such as Inc., Black Enterprise, or others that cover technology as well as business in general. There are also many events in your community, a lot of which are free. By attending these events throughout the year, you're bound to learn about technology. Get out of your comfort zone and once in a while sit in on, say, a session about web development, mobile technology, or apps to broaden your knowledge

Q: How is the explosion of mobile devices affecting the way small businesses interact with their customers?

A: There is no longer any excuse for saying "I didn't get your voice mail as I wasn't in the office." Your mobile technology should enable you to be productive wherever you are. It's important to not just have a cell phone, but have a smart phone that is configured to maximize your productivity.

Q: What are some tips for "future-proofing" your technology investment?

A: The future is always full of surprises, but there are some concrete steps you can take to ensure your business keeps up with the times:

• Develop a technology plan. Research and maintain it the same way you do your business plan.
• Make sure the technology you buy can grow with your business. You can't expect a technology to last forever, but if you buy a phone system "today" and double your employee size "tomorrow," the system should be able to grow with you.

Q: What can owners do to make sure they can be found "anywhere"?

A: To be found "anywhere" - or the harder challenge to be "productive anywhere" - begins with having the right applications on your phone. But it's also important to have integration with your backoffice so that the data in your office and on your phone are the same.

Q: With more and more business transactions taking place online, what can a small business do to retain the "personal touch" that sets it apart from larger companies, and peer competitors?

A: Things like sending a thank-you card (yep, a paper version) or making a phone call go far in bringing out the "touch" a small business needs to be different. Also, delivering more than asked is so important. People will always notice it.

Q: What are some "must-haves" for every small business's website today?

A: Every small business needs to consider the following elements when designing a website:

• Great navigation
• An attractive, professional look
• Quick access (i.e., Search Engine Optimized)
• Fresh content
• Easy-to-find contact number and/or email or form so that customers can get support, track the status of their orders, etc.

Q: You've written that finding a solution for every technology problem is easier when you have a trusted advisor. Does this hold true for business problems in general as well? And what role can a SCORE small business mentor play in helping find these solutions?

A: Having an advisor (or more than one) gives you a source of advice and insight that you don't have on your own. SCORE, which I have used for many years, has mature business leaders who know business. They've seen it all and done it all, and know what it takes to succeed - and fail.