Don’t Skimp on These 7 Tech Must-Haves

As a small business leader, your obvious "win" is making a large profit. With this goal in mind, small businesses commonly try to cut their costs by neglecting tech upgrades. Unfortunately, technology often ends up on the backburner of the budget in an effort to maximize profits. Here are seven tech must-haves that your business can't afford to skimp on.

1. Backup and Recovery
How much is your data worth to your company? What would you do if your business lost it all? You would have no documents, presentations, spreadsheets, contacts, photos, or programs to pull any information from to do business. That would be a disaster. In fact, the majority of small businesses that suffer data loss for more than ten days at a time will never open their doors again. Your company needs a data backup solution. These solutions ensure automatic, off-site backups that are available to you in minimal amounts of time to get your business back up and running in the event of an accident.

2. Cloud Solution
Technology is shifting toward cloud optimization. If you have experienced a cloud service before, you know just how easily accessible your data can be, anywhere with Internet access. Many businesses are making the transition to storing their files in the cloud for easy access outside the office, as many services offer compatible mobile apps. Experience freedom from your desk with the cloud!

3. Website
Websites take time and money to customize, operate, and manage. However, in this digital age, it's unbearably essential for your business to maintain a strong online presence through a good website. In order to maximize its effectiveness, you'll want to consider options that are above and beyond the typical free services that don't catch any attention. A good investment into a website with superior design and strategic content will more than pay for itself in the long run.

4. Printer
We're not talking about your personal inkjet printer from 2003 that you brought to the office because you didn't want to pay for another one. Your business, even if it's tiny, needs a printer that won't stall your operations. With a business-grade printer, your entire network can be routed to print more quickly and efficiently from any workstation in the office. Invest in a good machine that will aid your efforts, not slow them down.

5. Hardware
This part is self-explanatory, but your company shouldn't skimp on purchasing quality hardware. Make sure to purchase technology that will allow for growth over the next five years, not just machines that keep up with your current requirements. Don't allow PCs or servers limit the growth of your business; make technology upgrades that provide company upgrades.

6. Malware Protection
The security of your network should also be a top priority in terms of your company's technology expenses. Small businesses can rarely afford malware attacks that hinder and disable the efficiency of their machines. Most PCs come with standard firewall and antivirus protection, but you'll want to upgrade your protection to a business-efficient security solution. You'll also need to keep these updated, as a software protection plan is only good if it's relevant.

7. Support
Last, but certainly not least, your company can't afford to skimp on essential tech support servicing. Even if you're a mighty computer master, you don't have the time to constantly service all of your machines. Also, having an IT solution in position before an accident occurs will insure minimal amounts of business downtime. Whether you hire your own IT servicer(s), or outsource the work, this is a necessary expense for your company.

Coincidentally (or maybe not), Ferrum Technology Services offers solutions that can help your company find answers to all of the seven points above. In fact, we take the time to analyze the holes in our clients' business strategies and fill in the gaps for them.

Your business will need the proper tools if you hope to grow. Technology undoubtedly provides outstanding ways to increase productivity and efficiency, making it easier for you to spend time running your company. Don't skimp on these seven tech must-haves. If you don't have any of the above solutions, Ferrum Technology Services is your best bet for customized, convenient, and quick support. Call us today at (847) 697-3282 to learn how better technology leads to better business.