Often, businesses look at managed technology services as something that functions separately from day-to-day operations. You call in the “IT guy” whenever needed, but may forget that information technology has an inextricable link with every action your business conducts regularly, from sending emails to securing proprietary information. 

Below, we list some of the most common mistakes you might make, and we address how you can fix them- before it’s too late.

What Are the Most Common IT Mistakes and Fixes? 

Inadequate Data Protection and Security

Hard drives and networks crash- it’s a reality you can’t ignore. When a system crashes, it can keep your business from operating for minutes, hours, or even days. System crashes and the associated consequences, such as loss of vital data, can permanently affect your business. In fact, 60% of businesses are forced to close after losing all or part of their data.

What’s the solution? You need backup. A system can go down for a variety of reasons, including cyberattacks and natural disasters. Incorporate a cybersecurity plan that includes live, online backup along with regular offline backup. 

Managed technology services help keep your backups stored in multiple onsite and offsite locations.

Single Points of Failure

Having only one go-to IT person who has all the passwords and processes tucked away in a laptop or external hard drive can leave you vulnerable should something unexpected occur. If you’re one of the 40% of businesses that handles IT entirely in-house, you are setting yourself up for failure.

Business technology is an investment, so consider cost versus benefit. Being resource-rich with managed technology services ensures you have a team that acts quickly and efficiently. This makes the difference between slowly sinking in an IT problem and fast recovery.

Failing to Train Employees Properly

Employees working in administrative roles rarely realize the importance of technology in their success. Without adequate training on software features and security processes, such as password creation, your employees could create weak points throughout your network. In addition, they may fail in efficiency without a proper understanding of the tools they use daily.

It is important to concentrate on proper training on all software tools, provide instruction manuals and follow-up meetings to ensure all employees understand new processes. A good way to manage this is to use computer-based training, and even reward your employees for getting up to date on all systems.

Prioritize IT in your overall business plan. There’s no getting around it- technology is involved in nearly every aspect of modern business. Failure to focus on adequate support puts you in a losing position. Boost your business objectives with quality IT support that secures your data- and your future.