As we take our businesses into 2024, there is plenty to think about for the year ahead.
Running or managing a business is always a juggling act with so many things to consider – from sales to operations to staff issues and financials. As a result, it’s easy to overlook some of the areas that should be in your plans.
When it comes to your technology, here are some aspects that should form part of your strategy:
- IT security. You can’t have got through the last few years without knowing that cyber security needs to be a crucial focus area within your business. Nothing stands still – including the tactics of cyber criminals – and your defence needs to comprise of several “layers”. There is no single fix that will make your IT system impenetrable; you need a variety of solutions and policies, alongside human awareness of the risks. Regular reviews of your IT security are essential – talk to your provider now!
- IT hardware. Have you recently reviewed the age of the devices on your network? Keeping computers or servers running longer than their intended life span can be a false economy. Not only are older devices likely to become slower and more prone to break down, they may also be running on older Operating Systems and might be incompatible with newer versions of the software that you use.
- Software. Most businesses use a range of software packages – office applications, CRM systems, accounts packages and specialist line-of-business software. How recently did you review the software that you use, and the versions of those software packages? If you haven’t upgraded to newer versions, you may find that the provider gives limited (or no) support if things go wrong. If the software you’re using is not a Cloud version, is a Cloud solution now available.? If so, you may be able to move away from needing a server – saving on capital investment.
- Microsoft licences. If your software includes Microsoft services for things like email, Office and file storage, it’s likely that your licensing commitment is an annual one. Make sure you know when your renewal date is, as this is the only point in the year when you’re able to reduce the quantity of licences that you’re buying. Check that you don’t have any licences assigned to people who no longer work with you, and make sure that any unassigned licences are removed at the renewal date.
- Staff training. There are many aspects of your business that training can help improve – from day-to-day efficiencies to ensuring that you have a good continuity plan if people leave. When it comes to technology, make sure that your staff are fully trained in how to use your hardware and software, and make sure they receive regular updates about cyber security risks. We can’t stress enough that the people in your organisation are often the weakest link when it comes to giving access to cyber criminals. Sign up to some online cyber security training for your staff – it’s low cost and quick!
- Your telephone and broadband lines. It’s likely that you already know about the switching off of the old UK telephone technology – PSTN lines – which is scheduled to be complete by the end of next year. However, regional telephone exchanges are being switched off in phases and you need to ensure that you have a digital solution in place in readiness. Talk to us if you aren’t sure what action you need to take.
- Don’t forget your mobile phone data. If you’re likely to be travelling abroad during 2024, don’t wait until you get there, to think about your mobile phone. Make sure you know which countries you’re OK to use data in, and check that you have the right bolt-on applied to your tariff before you go. When it comes to using your mobile in the UK, if you’re someone who sometimes exceeds your monthly data allowance, check whether an unlimited data option is available. It may cost a couple more pounds a month but can save a lot in the long run!
If you have any questions about any of the points raised above, please give us a call, or enter your contact details here.