Technology
is always changing and evolving, but most businesses can’t afford
to keep pace with the latest trends. Instead, focus on laying a solid
foundation for your business technology, with a plan and a budget for
ongoing support, maintenance and replacement. It’s just as important
to get the technology basics right as it is to have a strong financial
or marketing plan. This month we touch on the ten technology basics that
should be in place in your business.
- Hardware & Software – The
most obvious technology components. To reduce problems,
ensure that your hardware isn’t too old and always
use legally licensed software.
- Power protection – Often neglected,
power protection equipment is an essential investment for
protecting your more expensive technology assets from power-related
damage.
- File sharing – Whether using a
shared storage device on your network, a ‘hosted’ solution
or your own server, save yourself from the tiring and unproductive
task of emailing documents around your own team.
- Backups – Ensure they are functioning,
checked daily, tested weekly and stored securely at another
location. It’s not enough to ‘think’ that
they are working and that ‘someone’ is looking
after them.
- Internet access – Balance your
monthly fee budget with a connection that is reliable and
gives you enough speed and data allowance to enable your
staff to work effectively.
- Domain name – The cost is negligible
to show people you are serious about your business and
you are not just operating with a free email service. Build
your internet presence on this and tap into a great source
of new customers.
- Security – Though network ‘firewalls’ and ‘anti-malware’ software
security measures are now considered essential, don’t
neglect the physical security of your computers. Is your
server easy to grab during a break-in through your front
door?
- Passwords – Commonly avoided in
small business as you trust the people you work with, secure,
complex passwords are needed in your defense against hacking
attempts and physical theft.
- Plans & Policies – Technology
needs to be managed like any area of your business, not
just taken for granted and acted on in an emergency. Your
plans should include budgeting for replacing aging hardware,
business continuity processes in case of technology failure,
and disaster recovery processes. Policies for staff covering
acceptable usage and computer security are also easier
implemented before they are needed.
- Trusted I.T. advisor – Develop
a relationship with a technology expert who is willing
to learn about your business. Then you’ll get the
best possible support and solutions that fit your current
needs and future plans.
Call
ITensure today to talk about the next steps for reinforcing
your strong technology foundation.
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