Hey Reader,

Last week, I shared my complete tech stack with you — all the trusted tools that keep Studio117 Creative running smoothly.

I hope you found some gems in there that might work for your business too!

But here's the thing... just because I use and love certain tools doesn't mean you need ALL of them.

In fact, if you're like most small business owners I know, you've probably already signed up for about a dozen different tools and software platforms over the years.

Each one promised to solve a specific problem, right?

But here's the thing about tech tools – they're supposed to make your life easier, not more complicated. And I'm not gonna lie... sometimes we end up with so many tools that they actually create more work instead of less.

Quick version if you're short on time:

• Too many disconnected tools create inefficiency and waste money
• The average small business is paying for 5-7 tools they barely use
• Following my simple 3-step audit process can streamline your tech stack
• Integrating the right tools properly can save you 5+ hours every week

Still here? Let's get into it...

The thing about business tech is that we often add tools reactively – we hit a problem, find a quick solution, and keep adding layers without stepping back to look at the big picture.

Think of your tech stack like your kitchen.

If you buy a new gadget for every recipe, pretty soon you've got no counter space left, and you spend more time looking for tools than actually cooking!

Here's what's actually happening in most businesses:

You're paying for multiple tools with overlapping features.

Your data is scattered across different platforms.

You're manually moving information between systems.

You've forgotten about subscriptions you're still paying for.

Each of these issues costs you both time and money.

Your 3-Step Tech Stack Audit Process

Step 1: List ALL Your Current Tools

Make a complete inventory of every digital tool, software, and subscription you're currently paying for. Include:

• Monthly/annual cost
• Primary purpose
• When you last used it
• What problem it solves for your business

True to form, this step often reveals 2-3 tools you completely forgot you were paying for!

Step 2: Identify Overlaps and Gaps

For each tool, ask these critical questions:

• Does another tool do the same thing?
• Am I using all the features I'm paying for?
• Are there gaps where my current tools aren't serving me?
• Is there a single tool that could replace multiple others?

Step 3: Create Your Streamlined Tech Stack Plan

Now it's time to decide what stays, what goes, and what needs to be better integrated:

• Keep: Tools that are essential, well-used, and provide clear ROI
• Consolidate: Replace multiple single-purpose tools with all-in-one solutions
• Integrate: Make sure your core tools talk to each other (this is where the magic happens!)
• Eliminate: Cancel subscriptions for tools you rarely use or that duplicate functionality

Here's why this matters for your business...

When your tech stack is streamlined and properly integrated, you reclaim hours every week, reduce your monthly expenses, and actually USE the tools you're paying for.

Let me share a quick example...

I recently changed client management tools myself, which allowed me to cancel 4 different tools!

The new CRM delivers a better client experience at a lower cost. Win and Win!

Where to start:

1. Start your tech audit today – I've created a free Tech Stack Audit Checklist you can use to get started
2. Focus on integrating the tools you already have – sometimes the solution isn't a new tool, but making your existing ones work together
3. Hit reply and let me know which area of your tech stack is causing the most headaches – I'm happy to suggest some solutions!

Remember, the goal isn't to have the fewest tools possible—it's to have the RIGHT tools that actually support your business goals.

That's exactly why I shared my tech stack with you last week—not so you could copy it exactly, but so you could see what's possible and choose the solutions that make sense for your business.

Pro tip: Set a calendar reminder to audit your tech stack every 6 months. Business needs change, and your tools should evolve with you!

Want to check out the tools I personally use and recommend? View last week's Tech Stack Resource Guide here​

Need help figuring out which tools are right for YOUR specific business? That's literally what I do!

Book a strategy call, and let's streamline your systems together.