Creating an IT contingency plan
With most companies running their business across computer networks and the internet, our reliance on IT systems is at an all-time high. In fact, most businesses rely solely on computers and servers to store data, rather than creating hard copy backups. Although this is cost-effective and environmentally friendly, it does mean that businesses can face significant downtime if systems crash or cyber security fails.
For small and medium businesses without an in-house IT team, this can be particularly problematic. Although hiring in-house IT support staff may not be cost-effective for businesses with less than 50 IT users, it’s crucial that they have an alternative IT support plan in place.
By ensuring IT solutions are available, small and medium businesses can reduce downtime and potential losses if an IT crisis occurs. Furthermore, the availability of remote monitoring and maintenance can enhance existing cyber security and reduce the possibility of systems crashing.
Are you upgrading your IT system?
In order to operate efficiently and benefit from new cyber security measures, companies may need to upgrade IT systems or install new software regularly. Without IT staff, smaller businesses may be relying on out-of-date software and this could pose a very serious security risk.
Fortunately, small and medium businesses can benefit from managed IT services. By outsourcing their IT requirements, businesses can access cost-effective IT support, such as an IT helpdesk and PC support.
When new software is required, for example, outsourced IT technicians can perform company-wide installations quickly and easily. Should on-going maintenance be required, this can normally be carried out remotely. In addition to this, necessary updates can be handled off-site and out of normal business working hours, meaning companies won’t lose trading time.
Using a data recovery strategy
If businesses face an IT crisis and data is lost, it’s vital that experienced IT consultants are able to implement a data recovery plan. Whilst it may be tempting to try and solve the problem yourself, you could risk losing your business data permanently.
Any loss of data can be disastrous for businesses and it often results in a significant financial loss. Client and customer data, for example, is often analysed and forms the basis of future marketing activity. If this is lost, subsequent advertising campaigns may fail or produce questionable results.
In addition to this, business processes and operations could grind to a halt. Staff data, for example, may be used by HR and payroll staff. If this is lost and unrecoverable, employees may not be paid on time and businesses may find it difficult to comply with workplace legislations and guidelines.
Working with outsourced IT support staff and creating an IT contingency plan and data recovery strategy ensures that you have the best chance of restoring data if something goes wrong. To find out more about the benefits of managed IT services, why not contact us today?
