In Chicago last week, heavy rains caused widespread flooding. I had some water in my office, but fortunately nothing was damaged. Through it all, I remained calm knowing my computer equipment and files were safe. As a small business owner, these things are top of mind in an emergency. My backup plan has saved me a few times so I thought I would share what’s worked for me:

1) Have multiple backups
I have 4 active copies of client files: One on my computer, one on an external drive using TimeCapsule, one on an external drive I back up manually, and one on the cloud-based service Dropbox (more on this later).

2) Make your backup automatic
This is key for busy business owners! As long as your computer is on and you are connected, your files are being backed up in real-time. This is another reason I love TimeCapsule and Dropbox… I don’t have to think about it, it just happens!

3) Keep a backup off-site
For active and archived projects, I have copies of files both on-site and off-site. If something happens at one location, I know there is a duplicate at the other location.

4) Use cloud-based services
Hard drives fail all the time. Why not let someone else worry about maintaining the hardware? There are many cloud-based services out there. I really like Dropbox because it has an uncluttered, intuitive interface and it’s fast. I also like that Dropbox keeps a snapshot of every change over the last 30 days. If I delete or save over a file by mistake I can restore it in a matter of seconds.

5) Create DVD archives
Once projects are complete, burn files to a DVD archive. I create two copies: one to keep on-site for reference and one to store off-site. This method keeps large files off my computer and provides an organized binder to reference older client projects. I print a DVD cover with a screenshot of the folder directory so I can quickly reference what is on each DVD.

These are things that have worked for me over the past 10 years. You will develop your own system — and the most important thing is to have a system. Good luck!

A recent Crain’s Chicago article suggests that business refine their website strategy for 2012. One continuing trend on the web for 2012 is relationship building – creating a relevant conversation about your brand online. How can you maximize your website, social media tools and/or LinkedIn to get people interested and talking about what you do? What is appropriate for your business and what is relevant for your clients? In addition to creating a strategy for networking online, there are more straightforward updates that need tended to. If you’ve been neglecting your website, consider a site refresh. If your website is managed through a content management system like WordPress, Joomla or Drupal your updates should be a breeze. Here are some additional considerations:

> How can you maximize your site, social media channels and LinkedIn to start conversations about your brand online?
> What is appropriate for your business and what is relevant for your clients?
> Is your website copy and imagery up to date? Does your content reflect keywords, tags and accurate descriptions of what you do?
> Are you using the free tool Google Analytics to track traffic?
> If you are using a Content Management System (CMS), is the CMS version up to date?
> How are users viewing your website? Is it optimized for mobile?
> If you have print materials to support your brand, are they in sync with the website?

Crain’s Chicago: What should your business resolutions be? An expert list.

Not surprisingly, the turn of the calendar year seems a perfect time to revisit business plans, marketing strategy and goals for the year ahead. Yes, it can be overwhelming and challenging to find the time to focus on your business, but well worth the effort. You’ll gain clarity, direction and inspiration. Each December, I take some time and complete a review for the year ahead. I’ve found it helpful to break up the review into 2-hour sessions each morning for 1 week. This way, I don’t take too much of my day from client-focused work but I’m still making progress. By the end of the week, I have a plan. Regardless of your industry or business, I’ve found a few resources that should be helpful as you plan for 2012. Good luck. Cheers to a successful 2012!

Creating a Blueprint for the Year
A Goals-Setting Worksheet
A Minimalists Guide to Business Planning for 2012: Part 1
A Minimalists Guide to Business Planning for 2012: Part 2
Inbox Zero (this is a game-changer!)

Creating great design means taking a break from the computer screen and getting outside for some fresh air. This weekend, I spent a few hours working on a cleanup in my community garden and tending to my garden plot. Digging in the dirt and seeing new buds of zucchini and squash is a simple pleasure, but is so exciting! Being in this space allows the creative mind to relax, daydream and explore – such a refreshing experience. I’m amazed how fast the pole beans are growing and can’t wait to enjoy the kale, beets, squash and tomatoes fresh from the garden.

A few weeks ago, I spoke with a group of 7th and 8th graders at the Lincoln Elementary School Career Day. I was impressed with their questions, energy and plans for the future. Many of them didn’t realize the amount of creativity, problem-solving and (gasp) sketching that happens during the generation of a logo or a website. As part of our discussion, I had them complete a short exercise – Each student was provided paper with a few lines suggesting the start of a sketch. They had 2 minutes to complete the drawing, then we shared what they came up with. What they didn’t know was that I distributed the same “start” to multiple students in class. Students were delighted to see that others with the same “start” came up with really different ideas. The point of the exercise was to illustrate that even when given the same jumping-off point, solutions often vary based on past experiences, influences and insight. It’s always important to take into consideration everyone’s ideas when brainstorming a project or solution – you never know what you will come up with.

We love our office space at the Ravenswood Coworking Group on Chicago’s Northside. We save energy and resources and having other people around keeps my creative energy on full-tilt. Coworkers trade ideas, collaborate on projects, share a friendly hello or a business lead. Learn more about the concept of co-working and take an inside look into our office space on this Chicago Tonight feature.

Marissa Strassel Design featured in “Freelance Design in Practice” by Cathy Fishel. Marissa shares insight on the business side of her design practice and includes tips on creating a business plan and strategies for conducting a yearly business review of goals and objectives.