There is quite a bit of discussion happening in the last couple years around big business privacy regarding their user’s information. In those discussions, we assume the company is doing everything in their power to keep users’ information and data safe. By default we then expect small businesses to leveraging information technology to our advantage and our safety.
However, the reality is that not all small businesses have embraced technology yet, or have fully considered how to protect their business and customer data. The fact of the matter is that as a small business owner your competitors are moving quickly. They are integrating new technologies into their business models and making their customer interaction more convenient, positive and secure. They have digitized their records, automated their scheduling and made back-office procedures more efficient.
If you haven’t reviewed your IT needs and maintenance options you are falling behind. So, it’s time to get your small business IT game on!
These tools are two of the easiest and most convenient to manage your IT needs, run your business efficiently and build your customers’ trust.
Cloud Storage
Cloud storage has become the go to option to back up, store and recover data for small businesses. You’ve probably heard the term a few times, but what does it actually mean? It’s pretty simple actually. Cloud storage is a program or system that links your computer network with a 3rd party which stores your information, files and data outside of your own computer that you can access through the internet.
The benefit is that anyone with the correct credentials and permission can access the data from any device and anywhere with an internet connection. For small businesses this can be a game changer by allowing team members to work on projects together in real-time even if their desks are squared up.
While the specific way you use cloud storage depends on your industry, you might use this storage method to share employee schedules and have them make requests for shift coverages on a shared document. Accounting software can be linked with the cloud so that the department gets instant updates.
Network & Computer Security
It is an unfortunate reality that 43% of cyber attacks are targeted toward small businesses. Even scarier is that only about half of small businesses are allocating any budget to providing network and security protections.
Investing in a quality network security system will ensure your business files, customers’ financial and personal information is well out of harm’s way. Why it can be hard to maintain a high level of network security without the right education, there are a number of excellent options for small business without committing a huge amount of money to an in-house team.
Outsourced IT services like Friendly PC offer a number of things that a small business needs while keeping costs affordable. Remote monitoring and maintenance plans are available to fit your business size. Data backup, wired and wireless networking, virus and spyware removal are all scaled to fit your needs and ensure efficiency and peace of mind.
It’s Time. Get Your Small Business IT Game On!
Technology isn’t slowing down, and the risks your business must be protected from are growing fast. The good news is you don’t need a costly in-house team to keep your data secure and your customers happy. You can implement an affordable solution fit to your business size and needs with a call to our Friendly PC techs.
