If you’re the owner of a small business and are the one dealing with the technology, you probably have a list of technology challenges a mile long in your head. As a managed service provider (MSP), we understand and want to provide you with some recommendations and solutions to help cut down on the technology challenges you deal with day in and day out. Whether you handle your IT, have an employee (or two), or work with an MSP, you likely face at least one of these issues regularly.
Knowing What You Need VS. What You Have and Already Pay For
Because so many software developers today try to be everything to everyone, we often find that businesses have multiple tools that do nearly the same thing. One that we see constantly is when a business pays for a service to turn a document into a PDF. Rarely do you need more than one way to do this.
Another example is with software. Do you simply buy another license every time you hire a new team member? Or, do you look at the number of licenses you’re already paying for and make sure you actually need another. If the software is concurrent licenses and not everyone uses the program at the same time, you don’t actually need one for every team member. You simply need one for the number of people who will need to use it at any one time. This is ideal for businesses who have shift workers or where there is only an occasional need for multiple people to utilize the software.
Legacy Software or Hardware That Doesn’t Work Together
We understand that no one wants to upgrade their hardware when it still works. However, is it working to its full potential or are you wasting resources settling. This is common with WiFi routers. If you have staff who need to move throughout your facility regularly and find the WiFi is slow or doesn’t seem to work, you may need to work with a WiFi network testing company. They can evaluate your current network. During this evaluation they will determine if your hardware is sufficient for your needs. Sometimes issues are with software or firmware that needs updating. Other times, they will reprogram your router to better suit your needs. However, there are times where the best option is replacing the hardware.
Some businesses purchased software licenses years ago. With that came lifetime use of the product. However, many software providers have transitioned to cloud-based services that require monthly or annual subscriptions. That may mean that your software no longer integrates with other tools like it once did. Although there is a cost involved with migrating to the new subscription software, if it will save your team time, it may be worth the cost. Additionally, many of the purchased software programs no longer update against viruses and malware, so you could be exposing your business to cybercriminals.
Cybersecurity Threats
There are no bigger or more serious technology challenges than those related to cybersecurity. As an SMB, you are a target no matter what you do. Manually managing it on your own is a full-time job in itself. Working with an MSP to implement the right tools and technology can not only provide you with saved time, but also peace of mind.
Not only can they put the tools in place to help protect your business, but they can also provide you with IT policies and procedures for your staff to help educate your team against phishing and other cybercrimes. Finally, they can implement a BCDR (Business Continuity & Disaster Recovery) plan to help your business should there be a natural disaster or ransom attack of your business data. With all the right tools in place, you are more likely to be in compliance with your industry and qualify for the best rates on cybersecurity insurance.
We Can Help You Overcome Technology Challenges
If you are facing any of these, or other, technology challenges, call Toucan Technology Group. We offer free on-site evaluation regarding all aspects of your technology. As an Indianapolis managed service provider, we can help with everything from Wi-Fi network testing and setup to BCDR and cybersecurity, to help desk support. Call us today to schedule your no obligation evaluation at (317) 376-4874 or fill out our contact form.
