Get with the Times! Information Technology and Your Business

IT services are the driving force behind modern business. However, new and innovative software solutions have replaced traditional hardware upgrades as the future of business information technology.

As business IT solutions continue to improve, it’s important that businesses take advantage of affordable innovations which can improve productivity and efficiency.

Managed IT Services

Managed IT services are a cost-effective solution which many businesses are implementing. Rather than paying a staff member’s salary for occasional IT operations, it can be more efficient to outsource your business’ IT needs to a local, dedicated IT professional.

This person can be available 24/7 to support your business and will be able to improve your IT systems and security. They can also implement new technology to boost your business’ productivity and efficiency.

Outsourcing your business’ IT allows your in-house team to work on what they do best and ensures that you get the most from your investment into IT.

Hybrid Cloud

Cloud computing is a term used to describe software that is hosted and accessed over the internet, rather than being stored in a physical location.

Cloud computing allows businesses to work more flexibly and efficiently, by creating opportunities to access work files and systems with only a registered company account and an internet connection.

The hybrid cloud builds on the benefits of cloud computing, while adding the security of a private, physical server. This offers increased protection for your business’ data, while retaining the flexibility and accessibility of the cloud.

Operational Tracking

Management Information Systems (MIS) are a set of software tools that can help you to track your business’ operations from a convenient central location. MIS can be set up to track sales, expenses and productivity, giving you consistent data to make better business decisions.

Many software solutions for businesses will allow you to record and collect valuable operational data. Shifting your employees onto a shared, inclusive IT system can group your operations, giving you a more detailed insight into your business and helping to inform your future strategies.

Mobile First

Research indicates that smartphone and mobile users are one of the fastest growing modern demographics. Optimising your business’ website and processes to assist mobile users can be an opportunity to gain a distinct advantage over competitors.

Modern customers increasingly expect accessibility to a business and their products through their phones. Catering to mobile users, such as by building a mobile application for your business or optimising your website for devices, can help you to retain a share in the growing mobile market.

Customer Support Systems

Customer Relationship Management (CRM) systems are a type of software tool that can help your employees manage client information such as individual’s details and requests. CRM systems can operate over the cloud and let your employees quickly share and forward information on client cases.

CRM systems often include ticketing and customer support features. These tools can help to organise large volumes of contact requests and client data, enabling your staff to reply to customers correctly and efficiently.

Customer support systems can also help your business to set up marketing opportunities and strategies, such as email and newsletter lists, while giving you targeted, data-driven feedback on customers’ behaviour.

Cyber Security

Cyber security is an increasing concern in a more connected business world. A breach in security can lead to sensitive and private customer information being leaked and even held for ransom. Lost or damaged files following a cyber-attack can also lead to important work having to be repeated, costing your business time and money.

Other costs can include large fines for inadequate security as well as damage to your business’ reputation. Preparing your business with adequate cyber security, including a dedicated and managed IT service, can help to protect your data from being illegally accessed.

IT innovations are changing the business world at a rapid pace, which is why it’s important for business leaders to remain ahead of the competition. Which IT service will you focus on for your business? Let us know in the comments below.

Author’s Bio:

This article was written by Daniel Defendi, who recommends MSS IT. You can catch Daniel on LinkedIn to discuss this piece.