Running a streamlined business doesn't mean having to use lots of different tools and systems. In fact, I think the opposite is true. Having the right tools in place, and making sure they work well together, can make running an online business much simpler.
I've built my business around a relatively small collection of tools that help me manage my website, clients, projects and day-to-day tasks. Here's a look at what I use, how each tool fits into my business and why I've chosen to keep things simple.
Why I Keep My Tech Stack Simple
Tech should make your life easier, not more complicated. When I first started my business, I was guilty of trying out different tools, overthinking integrations and creating systems that sometimes felt more complicated than they needed to be.
Over time, I've learnt that more tools don't necessarily mean better systems. I prefer to keep things simple, choosing tools that serve a purpose and work well together. For me, that's what makes a streamlined business.
My Core Tools
Here’s the full list of what powers my business day to day:
Website: Squarespace
Squarespace is the platform I use for my own website and the websites I build for clients. I love having everything in one place, from website pages and blogging to forms and email marketing. It's flexible enough to create a completely custom website, while still being straightforward for clients to manage and update themselves.
Email Marketing: Squarespace Email Campaigns
Keeping email marketing under the same roof as my website makes everything easier. With Squarespace Campaigns, I can design beautiful emails that match my brand, set up automations for welcome sequences, and manage everything in one place. No need for extra platforms.
Client Management: Dubsado
Dubsado is where I manage the admin side of my client work. From enquiries and proposals to contracts, invoices and onboarding, it keeps everything organised in one place. It also helps create a smooth, professional experience for clients, without having to manage lots of separate documents and emails.
Task Management: Apple Reminders + Bullet Journal
I use Apple Reminders for anything time-sensitive, such as sending follow-ups or remembering client check-ins. For everyday planning, I still love using a good old-fashioned bullet journal. It helps me organise my thoughts, keep track of tasks and stay focused. I like having a balance between digital reminders and putting pen to paper. You can read more about how I use bullet journalling to organise my life and business.
File Storage & Design: Google Drive + Canva
Google Drive is where I store and organise my business files, from client documents and project assets to everyday admin. I use folders to keep everything easy to find, both for my own business and when working on client projects.
Canva is where I create branded graphics, social media content and templates. It's useful for putting together professional-looking designs without needing lots of different design tools.
Video Walkthroughs: Loom
I use Loom to record quick screen-share videos, whether that's explaining a process, sharing an update or showing a client how to use their new website. It's particularly useful for creating training videos that clients can refer back to whenever they need a reminder.
Automation: Zapier
Zapier connects different tools and automates tasks that would otherwise need to be done manually. I use it to link platforms together and create simple workflows, such as passing information between forms and Dubsado. I don't have dozens of automations running behind the scenes, just a handful that make everyday tasks easier and help keep things moving.
The Tools I Don’t Use (And Why)
There are plenty of platforms I could add to my tech stack, but choose not to. I don't use a separate course platform, social media scheduler or complex automation software. Not because they're bad, but simply because I don't need them.
I already use Dubsado as my CRM and Zapier for lightweight automation, which covers what I need without adding unnecessary complexity.
My approach is simple: if something doesn't save me time, reduce stress or fit naturally into the way I work, I don't need it.
The Secret to a Streamlined Business
A well-organised tech stack beats a complicated one every time. By keeping things simple and making sure my tools work well together, I save time, reduce decision fatigue and can focus on the work that matters.
Less to manage.
Less to break.
More time to actually run my business.
Want a Website That Works as Hard as You Do?
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