1. Use open-source and free software: When you're trying to keep your business afloat, plunking down lots of cash for off-the-shelf software can really hurt. Thankfully, freeware and low-cost software can be a pleasant surprise in terms of robustness and functionality. While not as polished as Microsoft's Office suite (but not as much of a memory or resource hog), OpenOffice.org is a free, open-source alternative with a full suite of applications for word processing, spreadsheets, presentations, and databases that are compatible with Microsoft Office formats. Google Docs (docs.google. com) is another viable and free alternative to Office. It's Webbased, meaning you have no software to download or install.

Though it isn't nearly as full-featured as either Office or OpenOffice, the basic functionality and streamlined interface of Google Docs may be all you'll ever need. Creating PDF files may be crucial for business, but spending US$450 on Adobe's Acrobat Professional is not. CutePDF is a free program that simply exports files to PDF. Just download and install it; from the target file, choose File•Print, and select CutePDF from the printer menu. (If you're using OpenOffice or Google Docs, you won't even need to install CutePDF-- both let you export to PDF directly.)

2. Telecommute: Working at home lets you save on gas costs, yet you can remain just as productive when telecommuting thanks to tools that permit you to connect and collaborate almost as if you were in the office. Wikis make it simple to post text or documents so that a group can make comments or changes. Some wikis are free and public while others are more enterprise-focused, with more-robust security features. PBwiki offers three flavors: Business, Academic, and Personal.

It includes WYSIWYG editing tools, storage space, SSL encryption, automatic notifications via e-mail or RSS, and controls on access. If you cringe at the thought of setting up a VPN (virtual private network), services such as LogMeIn Hamachi may just be your ticket to headache-free remote VPN access. LogMeIn Hamachi promises easy setup using peer-to-peer technology to let off-site employees access files. The service works within your firewall and costs just $5 (approx Rs. 450) a month for one user license. For more tips and case studies, check out PC World's Telecommuting Resource Guide .

3. Hold online meetings: Why fly out to see a client when you can save time and money by holding the meeting in cyberspace? Using free videoconferencing software such as Skype you need only a Webcam, a PC, and an Internet connection-- saving money not only on travel costs, but on long-distance as well If you would like to upgrade to a more comprehensive Web conferencing service, Cisco's WebEx supports up to four Webcams and lets you share documents and run presentations from your desktop. GoToMeeting is another service that offers VoIP, supports meetings with up to 15 attendees, and lets you give presentations, collaborate, or provide training from your desktop, saving money on travel costs and meeting space.