As a business student, it’s important to combine theory with practice. Getting to know the software commonly used in modern businesses can give you an edge when applying for jobs, but with so many programs out there, where should you even begin?
In this article, we’ll give you the rundown on popular business software systems, from business tax planning software to business data analytics programs and everything in between. You’ll be an expert before you know it!
Let’s take a look at eight business software programs every business student should know.
Mailchimp
Mailchimp is a platform that enables businesses to create, manage and execute marketing campaigns. Originally just an email marketing service, Mailchimp now offers social media and event marketing features, automation and business data analytics, making it a crucial addition to your toolkit as a business student.
Over 12 million businesses of all sizes use Mailchimp, from sole traders, publishers and e-commerce businesses to international online news sites. Who knows – your future employer could be one of them!
MYOB
MYOB (Mind Your Own Business) has established itself as a reliable accounting software with a strong presence in Australia and New Zealand. It caters to both small businesses and larger enterprises. MYOB’s features include accounting, payroll, inventory management, and more.
MYOB is commonly used in the hospitality, retail and construction sectors. So, if you plan to specialise in any of these fields, it’s vital to familiarise yourself with the platform.
Salesforce
Salesforce is a Customer Relationship Management (CRM) platform, designed to help businesses of all sizes manage and enhance their interactions with customers. With Salesforce, you can forecast sales, design personalised marketing strategies, and track and manage potential customers.
Salesforce has 150,000 customers worldwide including Amazon, Toyota and Spotify, making it the world’s most-used CRM system.
SAP
SAP – which stands for Systems, Applications and Products in data processing – is a software company that provides a wide range of solutions aimed at simplifying organisational operations. Founded in Germany in 1972, SAP has grown to become one of the largest software companies in the world, with 20,000 businesses using the platform, including big-name brands like BMW, Burger King and Coca-Cola.
SAP aims to help large businesses improve efficiency, optimise processes and enhance customer engagement to gain a competitive edge in the market. This can be done with features like inventory management, data analysis, tracking sales leads and payroll and accounting.
Victoria University (VU) in Melbourne hosts Australia’s first SAP Academy, enabling VU students to gain SAP’s globally recognised software certifications. Students can also develop their skills and industry experience through the SAP Next Gen-Lab, based at the VU City Campus in the centre of Melbourne.
Shopify
Shopify is an e-commerce platform that enables businesses to create, manage and operate online stores. Through Shopify, you can create a store, add and manage products, chat with customers, and analyse data regarding sales, conversions and customer behaviour.
Shopify is hugely popular, with over 4 million stores using the platform. Netflix, Sephora and Tesla all use Shopify to run their online stores.
Trello
Trello is a project management and collaboration tool that helps teams organise tasks, projects and workflows. Trello can be used to plan out projects from beginning to end by breaking them down into smaller, more manageable tasks, with the ability to assign tasks to team members. This makes it easy to see progress.
Trello has over 50 million registered users, with businesses of all sizes using it to streamline their project management.
You can even use Trello to manage your coursework by creating study plans and to-do lists. This is an excellent way to apply the software’s capabilities in your everyday life and become proficient in it.
WordPress
WordPress is a Content Management System (CMS) that allows its users to create, manage and publish digital content, primarily websites and blogs. Beginning in 2003 as a blogging platform, WordPress has evolved into a versatile CMS that is used by 43 per cent of all websites globally.
On WordPress, you can create a website from scratch – anything from a retail store or corporate site to a portfolio. The websites are super customisable, allowing you to create a site that is unique to your business.
WordPress has tools to help with search engine optimisation (SEO), social media integration and analytics among many other features. Businesses that use WordPress range from Sony Music to The New York Times.
Xero
With over 3 million subscribers in 180 countries, Xero is an uber-popular accounting software program for small to medium-sized businesses. Operating on a subscription model, Xero offers monthly plans tailored to a wide range of needs.
The software has a range of features, including invoice creation and management, tax planning, and employee payroll. With its high level of customisation, Xero is an accessible and straightforward way to monitor your business’ income and expenditure.
As a business student, familiarising yourself with and embracing these tools will prepare you to navigate the business technologies of today and tomorrow.
Read more: How to Find Student Jobs in Melbourne: A Guide for International Students
Are you interested in studying business and getting hands-on experience with these software programs and more? Victoria University (VU) is the place to do it.
Prepare for success in today’s digital business world by studying a career-focused course in accounting, analytics, finance, management, marketing, tourism or trade.
