As a business owner, it’s easy to fall into the trap of subscribing to tools and services that seem helpful at the time but end up being underutilised – or worse, forgotten. Regularly auditing your tech stack and subscriptions is essential for optimising your operations, staying on budget, and ensuring you’re leveraging the best tools for your current business needs.
Here’s how to perform a thorough audit of your tech stack and subscriptions in just a few steps:
1. Compile a Comprehensive List of Your Tools and Subscriptions
Start by gathering every subscription and tool you’re using. Include everything from project management platforms and email marketing software to domain hosting fees and streaming services tied to your work.
Tip: Check your bank and credit card statements for recurring charges to help identify subscriptions you might overlook.
2. Assess the Relevance of Each Tool
Ask yourself:
- Is this tool essential to my current business operations?
- Does it align with my current revenue position and goals?
- Have I fully utilised all of its features?
If a tool doesn’t pass this test, it might be time to reconsider its place in your tech stack.
3. Analyse Usage and Value
Dig deeper into your subscriptions:
- Check analytics dashboards or usage reports to see how frequently you and your team engage with the tool.
- Evaluate whether the features you use justify the cost. For instance, paying for a premium plan when a basic one meets your needs can lead to unnecessary expenses.
4. Eliminate Redundancies
Do you have multiple tools serving the same purpose? For example, you might use two different scheduling apps or have overlapping capabilities between your CRM and email marketing software. Choose the one that best fits your needs and cancel the others.
5. Align Costs with Your Revenue Position
Subscriptions can sneakily scale up. Ensure the cost of each tool aligns with your current revenue. If a pricey tool isn’t delivering ROI, look for alternatives or downgrade to a less expensive plan.
Tip: Many software providers offer discounts for annual payments or non-profits. Don’t be afraid to negotiate a better rate.
6. Look for Consolidation Opportunities
Consider switching to platforms that offer multiple functions. For example, some CRM tools include project management, invoicing, and marketing automation—streamlining your stack and reducing costs.
7. Create a Recurring Audit Routine
Make it a habit to review your tech stack quarterly or biannually. This ensures your tools grow with your business and helps prevent unnecessary expenses from creeping in.
Why Auditing Your Tech Stack Matters
Auditing your tech stack isn’t just about cutting costs – it’s about working smarter. The right tools empower you to:
- Save money and reinvest it in other areas of your business.
- Improve operational efficiency with fewer distractions from unused apps.
- Build a streamlined system that grows alongside your business.
By taking a proactive approach to managing your subscriptions, you ensure that every tool in your arsenal contributes meaningfully to your success.
Start Optimising Your Business
Now is the perfect time to take a closer look at your tech stack. Use this step-by-step guide to declutter your tools, cut unnecessary costs, and optimise your business operations. For even more guidance, download our free resource – 52 Biz Clean Up Ideas (including how to audit your tech stack and subscriptions) – it’s packed with actionable tips to help you start saving time and money today!
