SBDC Conference Helps Small Businesses Stay Ahead of the Technology Curve

Keeping on top of trends in technology is a challenge for many companies, and it can be especially daunting for small businesses. Duquesne University's Small Business Development Center (SBDC) aims to help entrepreneurs use technology to enhance business profitability and competitiveness.

To that end, the SBDC is hosting its seventh annual Pennsylvania Business Technology Conference on Thursday, Nov. 15. The daylong event will feature breakout workshops, a panel discussion and live technology demonstrations.

New to the conference this year is lunchtime technology checkup. "We're thinking of it as a tune-up for your business technology," said Christine Hughes, training manager at the SBDC. "Attendees will be able to find out if they have a smooth-running machine or a slow-moving clunker."

The checkup will cover topics such as:

•  What to look for before buying a new computer
• Most important website must-haves and biggest mistakes
• Security measures to protect profits, employees and customers
• New tools and trends for quick and easy communication.

Breakout workshops this year include everything from email marketing best practices to social media for businesses and free technology tools.

The conference will include hands-on learning, too. At a technology showcase, attendees can see how QR codes work, create a Facebook business page and watch a webinar be created.

Full-day registration is $119, which includes continental breakfast, admission to the full schedule of events and lunch. For details, visit www.duq.edu/sbdc or call 412.396.1633.