There's one thing everyone in business will have and that's a to do list. It's the where and how that varies hugely. While some are happy to keep it in their heads others - like me - require various lists. If it's not on the list it won't get done is how I work, and so far it's worked pretty well. That, of course, depends on your list being accessible. I, like most of us, have had the misfortune of having a computer malfunction which has seen my list disappear forever. For someone like me who is so reliant on that essential piece of information, it made me realise I needed to come up with a back-up system.

Now I use DropBox, which is an online file storage and synchronisation service. Because the files are not held on your computer not only do you get the security that they're safely backed up, but it means you can access them wherever you like. Work online or offline, straight from your smartphone, computer or tablet. Now, because my to do list is in my DropBox folder I know I can always access it. Even better, if you don't have a large amount of data the service is free.

Now we all know how much fun apps can be. Can you deny that you've been a slightly bit addicted to Angry Birds at some point? Even people who've denied they're going to download any apps let along spend considerable time using them end up finding their own favourites whether it's playing Scrabble or chatting to friends via Facebook.

However, the fun aside, apps are seriously big business - and getting bigger. Did you know the technology is going to start appearing in many other areas of your life? Apps are already moving away from being limited to mobile devices. Google TV and Apple TV will be offering software updates that include app support, so the rise of the 'living room app' is just around the corner, plus there are cars that support apps too.

Send invoices immediately - Why wait until the end of the month to send invoices when you can invoice as soon as a job is completed. If you wait 15 days to invoice you've already lost 15 days when you could have had the money in your account. Businesses need to be paid as soon as possible, so why wait unnecessarily.

Using online software – The benefit of online software to send invoices is that you can invoice your customers when ever and where ever. In addition, you have the security that all your invoicing information is safe and secure.

Provide a detailed description - All invoices provide a field to write a description of the work you are invoicing for. Not only does fully completing this give customers a feeling of value for money, but it can prevent payment disputes - whether to simply delay payment or due to confusion over what is being invoiced for.