Hi @Aieling Koester . I spent 15 years helping SMBs make this decision. While I don't have a favorite, I do have insights on what systems best fit certain business niches or company cultures. Would love to discuss with you directly at some point if you are interested.

@Dan Koffel @Aieling Koester Perhaps lets set up a time either in person (if y'all are in Bend) or on Zoom. Email me at jim@silvercompasscoaching.com and we will get it set up.

Starting a business can be overwhelming. How many people know how to do the books, clean the office, do what they do, and file all the taxes? Payroll? Business License? I really agree with @Jeff Neinstadt about staying focused on your core competence, and realize when you are bootstrapping you may not have the cash-flow to outsource some of these things. Include in your business plan the priorities of these administrative tasks and how and when you intend to seek help with them. In the modern world, hiring for these positions rather than outsourcing doesn't seem to make sense. Unless payroll is somehow a core competency which gives your organization some competitive advantage, outsourcing is the way to go. Another pitfall is trying to satisfy everyone. When we are stressed about income, we might take on jobs, customers or clients that don't really fit. This can rapidly spin out of control and create big problems, so, have a vision and stick to it. Find your customers and serve them well.

Well, I think my books recommendations are going to be a bit more obscure to the direct conduct of business, but here they are. 1. Atlas Shrugged by Ayn Rand - While the hyperbole and stressed archetype adherence is quite unbelievable, it must be said that this is as important to some as the bible. It is quite a good study on communal psychology and (for some) quite fun. 2. Leading Change by John P. Kotter - Understanding the process of change is critical in leading others. Lots has been written since this was published, but I don't think most of the more modern approaches do any better than Kotter's. 3. A book of poetry to which you can return over and over which calms your mind and makes you love the world. I have many. I suppose there are so many books written on how to be a great manager, improve your habits, etc, etc. I think those are all great, and I think it is what you do with the information or inspiration you get from them that makes the difference. I'm looking forward to reading more opinions.

Greetings and Salutations. My name is Jim Hart. I am the proprietor of Silver Compass Coaching. We offer executive, business and individual life coaching, leveraging people's core energies to clear blocks and help them achieve their highest goals. My goal for participating in Oregon Entrepreneurs is to engage with locals for collaboration, referrals, partnership and experience. I have consulted all over the world but am primarily, now, focused on local community for my business. I'm looking forward to meeting you all.

@Donny Macneish Great meeting you tonight.