February 4, 2010

Recession buster: cell phone barcode scanners

Filed under: Budget & Finances — Tags: , , , — lidia @ 8:41 pm

photo by Ben Heine on flickr

As we’re all more aware of our business (and household) spending habits, I thought I’d share my latest discovery to save money when shopping: cell phone barcode scanners.

Here’s how it works… you’re out of an item in your office or household. Scan the UPC code using a barcode scanner app like ShopSavvy (available for Android and iPhone). Up pops a list of local and online retailers that carry the item and their pricing. Check the list for the lowest price and you’re on your merry way to saving money. I like to call it the green version of sale papers!

January 14, 2010

Recession buster: the park district

Filed under: Health & Wellness,Local (Chicago) — Tags: , , , , — lidia @ 3:01 pm

photo by sidereal on flickr

January always seems to be the busiest time at my gym. Whether it’s New Year’s resolutions or just a lingering desire to be fit, it’s a popular time to start a fitness program. However, most gyms are not cheap and if you’re a small business owner, this might be a place where you cut your budget. Don’t give up on your fitness routine just yet: check out the Chicago Park District.

The Park District has many fitness centers, with low-cost membership fees, located throughout the city. There are also great classes available, like circuit training, Pilates and yoga—I’ve become a big fan of the yoga class at my local park.

If you have a home office, the park district is a great option as there is likely a park near your workplace—and it’s a great excuse to get out of the house. Now get out there and start moving!

January 6, 2010

Recession Buster: the public library

Filed under: Budget & Finances,Small Business — Tags: , , , , — lidia @ 3:55 pm

Have you been to the library lately? For many people under the age of 10, the answer is probably no. But for small businesses, the library can be a valuable resource.

Here in Chicago, the Chicago Public Library offers you the opportunity to search books online and have them transferred to your local branch. I’ve been pleasantly surprised to find most of the business and marketing books that I’ve searched for—even new releases. Don’t get me wrong, I’m still a bookstore junkie. But this way, I can scope out books before I head over to my local bookshop and plunk down my money.

Live in Chicago? Another Chicago Public Library perk that I just learned from fellow Twitterer Allison Hanlon: you can check out a Museum Passport which give you 1 week of FREE access to local museums (choose from 12, see specifics here). Talk about a great recession buster, especially for families. Have I convinced you yet? Check out the CPL’s online catalog or find your local branch.

Looking for your local library? Search Libweb for an extensive list of public and academic library locations.