One of the most important (and desirable) aspects of building a home based internet business revolves around the ability to automate the business.  I am NOT necessarily talking about a Timothy Ferriss 4-Hour Work Week outsourcing dream.  This is actually different and I think many people get confused about the two.

The main difference is that most automation is done using technology while outsourcing is done manually by a human (though, I argue that some tasks I do could probably be done by a monkey, a lab rat or a gerbil).

Understand the difference because it is crucial!  I have seen too many people outsource their businesses (and their profits!) away when simple automation would have been easier, more cost effective and more efficient.

Outsource only when it is necessary!  It is amazing what a simple programming script can achieve these days: an email autoresponder, a purchase order, product fulfillment - even customer service to some extent!  And in most cases, these automation tools are already available and usually relatively inexpensive (either as one-time purchases or low monthly fees).

Since I have been away in Australia, I have found my automation to be essential.  My online business can run seamlessly with minimal interaction.  Sure, I do still outsource some tasks or do them myself, but remember that automation is the KEY to success and growth online.  If you build your wealth online with automation, you CAN create self-managing money making machines which provides you with more time and resources to create multiple streams of income (or provide you with more time to spend in places like Australia!)

cheers…matt