Technology Strategies for Startups

Transcription

1 Technology Strategies for Startups For some startups, and small businesses, technology may not always take center stage. This could, however, be costly in the long run.

2 In today s world, technology is the center of most businesses. While unpaid and trial software and hardware seem enticing to many start-ups and small businesses, it oftentimes ends up being more costly to your business. By setting yourself up with a proper technology strategy from day one, your technology can grow seamlessly and cost-effectively with your business operations. What can you imagine for your business? I can easily add or remove apps and storage as needed Everyone can access company data on their mobile device, in a secure fashion We can process orders much faster than before I pay only for the services I use

3 Powering efficient growth: Today start-ups and small companies are able to access powerful capabilities that were once only available to enterprise businesses. For example, always having access to the latest technology and innovation, or quickly scaling services as business needs change. Today, your technology will work as hard as you do, regardless of your revenue stream. With the right business solutions, you are enabled to adapt and scale with less hassle, avoid upfront capital expenses, and get the tools you need to do what you do best. How to grow efficiently: 1. Get the right balance for your business Choose the run your applications in the way that best suits your organization, whether on-site, in the cloud, or both. For many start-ups, this means going to the cloud from day one. 2. Stay current and competitive security and automatic updates are perfect for a changing digital landscape, especially with the increased amount of cyber security threats ALL businesses, not just the enterprise companies, are experiencing. 3. Adjust to changing business needs Easily and quickly scale apps, services, and storage up or down as your business grows. As your sales grow, you may need to add additional apps or services you didn t need on day one. Make sure you re working in a platform that allows for such scalability. Make sure you always have the latest innovation, features, and

4 4. Maximize your hardware investment Get one, familiar, powerful experience across PC s and devices with Windows 10 Pro. Give employees more device options across a variety of price points by operating with Windows 10 Pro. By doing so, each employee is getting the same user experience. Plus, Microsoft has stated Windows 10 will be the last version of Windows they release, claiming updates will simply be pushed by online patches. product available, making it nearly impossible to work when unexpected internet failures occur. Many times, after a year or so, startups and small businesses realize they should have a better solution and look to transfer their data to a more business-focused set of tools. The time spent on data transfer can range from hours to days depending on the amount of data and file types. Set yourself up for success from day one and understand the scalability of your software. It will save you costs in the long run. 6. Manage mobile access more easily 5. Reduce costs Reduce up-front infrastructure costs and pay only for what you use by hosting apps and in the cloud. Often times, start-ups opt to use free editions of s or apps. However, security features are often lacking on free editions. Furthermore, many free editions don t have desktop versions of the Enable easy, seamless access from personal and company-owned mobile devices. This feature is critical for the busy entrepreneur. When you re on the go, you need full access to your data. Be sure to find out if you will have full access to your documents, s, and folders regardless of where you are or white device you are using.

5 7. Improve database performance Already have an existing network structure in place? We recommend making your apps run faster on existing server hardware with SQL Server This allows you to minimize business disruptions and associated costs while providing a better customer experience. Time is money; make the most of it. 8. Get the most out of your servers As you grow, it s vital to have a server in place for your organization. Luckily, technology has grown to allow servers to be stored in the cloud, rather than in your office. This is typically a safer, more costeffective route to take. By moving your server to the cloud, you don t have to worry about the price of hardware, the vulnerability of a physical asset in your office (spilled coffee, theft, etc), and it makes the ability to scale much easier.

6 In our era, even a basic computer user typically has the capabilities to set-up an account, launch some sort of website, or upload a file online. However, just as you are an expert in your realm and know the ins-and-outs better than people outside your field; the same rings true for technology experts. Often times start-ups and small businesses hand the technology hat off to one individual in the organization most familiar with computers. The philosophy of do more with less rings true for most of us. While, this is a common practice, this can cost you more in the long run due to the fact often times these people aren t qualified enough to set your entire organization up for future growth and success in terms of technology.

7 Companies that cannot afford their own dedicated IT resource or team often look to outsource their technology needs. This is a preferred practice for many, as you can receive 24X7 support and consulting, at a fraction of the price as it would cost to hire on a CIO. However, making the critical decision to hire an outsourced team, known as managed service providers, (MSP) is a big deal. If you decide outsourcing is right for you, be sure to ask the following questions: 1. What are your requirements? The good MSPs will start out with a network assessment. Usually, this encompasses a status of your machines and specs of your software for compatibility. Having the right operating software is a critical component of staying with the right company to do the job. Make sure while the assessment is performed, you understand what the status of your network needs to be. If you re a single user, your network assessment should be relatively simple. Always ask to see the results of the report (which typically won t be available immediately). 2. When is your service desk available? Depending on when your business operates, you need to find a service desk to be there for you and your employees. Traditional times typically range from 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM, but if they have a 24x7 emergency line available, even during holidays, that s a plus. It s best practice to choose a provider with 24x7x365 remote monitoring, so they can assist you at any time from any place. 3. Guaranteed service agreements? When there are problems that are crucial to your business, you need to know when to expect a resolution to be in place. Service Level Agreements (SLAs) can bind you and your managed service provider to an understanding of expectations. Before reaching an agreement, be sure you have made clear what is an emergency to your business. For example, is being down for more than 15 minutes critical? Be sure that s defined.

8 4. Do I have to sign a contract? A majority of MSPs will make you sign some sort of contract. If this is the case, be sure to ask for several client references. Much like a job interview, you are looking to bring someone on to your team, don t just take their word for your success. If a contract is required, verify if you can get out of that contract if you are dissatisfied with their services or if they are not adhering to their service level agreements. The worst possible scenario is to be stuck in a long-term contract with a company that is underperforming for you, and essentially hindering your growth. If you can find a MSP that doesn t require contracts, even better. Often times that is a testament to their client service skills and technical expertise. 5. Virtual CIO? Granting someone the keys to the server room (or cloud) and controlling your environment, should be able to lend insights. Your MSP needs to understand this. Technology is one of the biggest impacts affecting your bottom line and your MSP should be letting you know of your technology s performance on a regular basis. They should be assisting you in planning for your technology s future, and should be giving you projections on when you will need to adjust your IT budget. 6. Do you offer on-site and remote service? A combination of remote monitoring and an in-person checkup doesn t hurt. A technician coming to check on things in your office lets them get comfortable with your environment. The more familiar they are with users and machines they are dealing with can increase your uptime and productivity. Maintaining a good relationship with your MSP is a good omen.

9 About the Company Professional IT consulting and business strategy firm delivering the very best in IT management, service and support to businesses under 200 employees in southeast Michigan. We strive to not only create long lasting relationships with our clients but an outstanding, progressive work environment where our staff is happy to wake up every morning to go to! We focus on the physical, mental and spiritual well-being of our staff along with their professional development. Contact Info Telephone: Fax: Website: