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Why Small Businesses Need IT Support: The Benefits of Outsourcing

Why Small Businesses Need IT Support: The Benefits of Outsourcing

by | Mar 28, 2023 | I.T., IT Support Brisbane, Services, Solutions

In today’s digital age, technology is a critical component of any business’s success. Small businesses, in particular, need to have reliable IT support to ensure smooth operations and minimise downtime. However, many small business owners may not have the resources or expertise to manage their IT needs in-house. That’s where outsourcing IT support can come in handy. In this blog post, we will explore the benefits of having IT support for small businesses.

Access to Expertise

Hiring an IT support team provides small businesses with access to a team of experts who have extensive knowledge of the latest technology trends, software, and hardware. IT support providers have the necessary skills and experience to identify and resolve complex IT issues quickly, minimising downtime and improving productivity.

Cost-Effective Outsourcing

IT support can be a cost-effective solution for small businesses that don’t have the resources to hire a full-time IT team. With IT support services, small businesses only pay for the services they need, whether it’s regular maintenance, troubleshooting, or upgrading software and hardware.

Increased Security

Small businesses are increasingly becoming targets of cyber-attacks. IT support providers can help ensure that a business’s network and data are secure from external threats such as malware and hackers. They can implement security protocols, regular data backups, and disaster recovery plans, reducing the risk of data loss or breaches.

Improved Efficiency

IT support providers can help small businesses streamline their operations, automate tasks, and implement innovative technologies. This can help businesses save time, reduce errors, and increase efficiency, resulting in higher productivity and profitability.

Focus on Core Business Activities

Outsourcing IT support can allow small business owners to focus on their core business activities, such as sales and marketing, without worrying about the technical aspects of running a business. IT support providers can take care of all the technical details, freeing up time and resources for business owners to focus on what they do best.

In conclusion, having IT support is essential for small businesses that want to thrive in today’s digital age. With access to expertise, cost-effective solutions, increased security, improved efficiency, and the ability to focus on core business activities, outsourcing IT support can provide small businesses with the resources they need to succeed. If you are a small business owner looking for reliable IT support, consider outsourcing your IT needs to a trusted provider.

Get your time back and focus on growing your business with our reliable IT support. Fill out the form below to schedule a free consultation with one of our experts. During the consultation, we’ll discuss your business’s unique IT needs and provide tailored recommendations to help you achieve your goals. Don’t let IT issues hold your business back – take the first step towards a more efficient and productive business today!

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Revolutionising Business with AI: Boosting Productivity for Hybrid and Office Workforces

Revolutionising Business with AI: Boosting Productivity for Hybrid and Office Workforces

by | Mar 16, 2023 | Business Management, Communications, IT News, Solutions

In today’s fast-paced and increasingly competitive business landscape, the quest for efficiency and productivity is taking centre stage. Companies are continuously searching for innovative ways to enhance the work experience of their employees while minimising costs. Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology, which has emerged as a game changer in automating business processes and streamlining workflows, both in the office and in a hybrid working model. In this post, we’ll explore some revolutionary AI technologies that have proven to save time and money, making staff more productive and ready for the future of work.

virtual attendant

1. AI-powered Virtual Assistants

Virtual assistants like Google Assistant, Siri, and Amazon Alexa have already made their way into our daily lives. Now, AI-powered virtual assistants are revolutionising the workplace—empowering users to manage their tasks, meetings, and priorities more effectively. These virtual workplace assistants can schedule meetings, remind staff of deadlines or appointments, and even help draft emails. By managing tasks on an employee’s behalf, AI-powered virtual assistants save time, increase productivity, and improve the employee experience.

Intelligent Document Processing

2. Intelligent Document Processing

AI-driven optical character recognition (OCR) technology can now automate the process of scanning, extracting, and digitising information contained in documents. This speeds up operations by reducing the need for manual data entry and streamlining the handling of critical information. Additionally, natural language processing (NLP) technology can analyse text data and identify essential elements like dates, names, or specific phrases. By automating these processes, employees can allocate their time to more valuable tasks and reduce human errors.

Robotic Process Automation (RPA)

3. Robotic Process Automation (RPA)

RPA leverages AI technology to automate repetitive and monotonous tasks traditionally handled by humans. RPA not only reduces the time spent on these tasks, but it also increases accuracy and efficiency. Furthermore, RPA can be applied to various departments, including human resources, procurement, and accounting, enabling staff to focus on strategy, decision making, and innovation.

AI Customer Support

4. AI-driven Customer Support

Customer support is a vital aspect of any business. By employing an AI-powered chatbot, businesses can offer instant support and problem-solving capabilities to their customers. Chatbots can handle routine queries and troubleshoot common issues, reducing the workload of customer service staff and enabling them to focus on more complex inquiries. Furthermore, since chatbots are available 24/7, customers can get assistance at any time, improving overall customer satisfaction.

AI-based Workforce Analytics and Management

5. AI-based Workforce Analytics and Management

Understanding employee behaviour and performance is crucial for optimising productivity. AI-driven workforce analytics tools can identify patterns and trends in employee work habits or performance, providing invaluable insights for managers. This information can be used to devise targeted training programs or incentive schemes, improving employee engagement and performance. Additionally, AI-powered scheduling and resource management tools can help managers assign tasks, track progress, and balance workloads more effectively in a hybrid working environment.

Artificial Intelligence technologies have proven to be key enablers in transforming workplaces and automating a wide range of business processes. By adopting AI-powered solutions, businesses can save time and money while enhancing employee productivity, both in the office and in a hybrid working paradigm. The AI revolution is here, and it is up to us to harness its potential and empower our organisations for a more efficient, cost-effective, and streamlined future.

Mastering OS Updates: A Step-by-Step Guide for Windows & Mac

Mastering OS Updates: A Step-by-Step Guide for Windows & Mac

by | Mar 15, 2023 | Cybersecurity, I.T., IT Support Brisbane

We rely on our devices and software everyday for practically everything. From staying in touch with family and friends to managing business operations, our lives revolve around technology. Unfortunately, this convenience also comes with risks, as cybercriminals are always looking for ways to exploit weaknesses in our software and devices. But there is a simple precaution to minimise these threats – regular updates. In this article, we will discuss why updating your device and software is crucial and how you can do so on both Windows and Apple devices.

Why Updating Matters

Imagine leaving your door unlocked – that’s what outdated software is like for your device, inviting cyber intruders. They exploit these gaps to steal your data or seize control. By updating, you equip your device with the latest armour – security patches, bug fixes, and speed boosts – defending against potential cyber dangers.

Updating Windows Devices

To update your Windows device, click:

If you want to install the update now, select Start  > Settings  > date & Security  > Windows Update , and then select Check for updates. If updates are available, install them.If updates are available, you can choose to install them.

Check for Windows Updates

Updating Apple Devices

For Apple devices, it’s equally easy. Visit Settings > General > Software Update. When an update is available, hit “Download and Install.” Turn on “Automatic Updates” to receive future armour without lifting a finger.

Updating Mac OS

Safekeeping Business Devices

In the business realm, there a number of proactive measures that can be taken to armour your devices and prevent cyber assaults. Schedule and automate updates to ensure consistency and minimise risk. Deploy up-to-date antivirus software and train your team to spot and report suspicious activity for added protection.

In a Nutshell

Keeping your device and software up to date is paramount in today’s tech-driven world. Regular updates are your virtual shield, fending off cyber threats and preserving your data’s sanctity. Whether Windows or Apple is your weapon of choice, automated updates make it so easy to stay secure. With our user-friendly guide, staying ahead in the cybersecurity game is simpler than you think.

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Get ready for the IE11 retirement. Switch to Microsoft Edge today

Get ready for the IE11 retirement. Switch to Microsoft Edge today

by | Feb 21, 2023 | I.T., IT News, Microsoft

Microsoft has recently announced that it is permanently disabling Internet Explorer 11 (IE11) on certain versions of Windows 10 from February 14, 2023. This update will be rolling out to the Microsoft Edge Stable channel over the next week via a progressive rollout process.

Microsoft Edge Browser

The purpose of the update is to redirect users from IE11 to Microsoft Edge. Once the update is installed, users will be informed that IE has been retired and is no longer supported. Selecting “Continue” will start the redirection process from Internet Explorer 11 to Microsoft Edge. As part of the update, the Microsoft Edge icon will replace all IE icons in the start menu and taskbar.

What if I need IE for certain websites?

If any website you visit is incompatible with Microsoft Edge and requires IE, you can reload it with IE mode in Microsoft Edge once redirected. To enable IE mode, click the Ellipsis (three horizontal dots) in the top, right-hand corner of Microsoft Edge. Then select “Reload in Internet Explorer Mode” from the options.

Will I lose IE browser data such as favourites and passwords?

All data that was saved in your IE browser, including your favourites, history, cookies and passwords, will be brought over to Microsoft Edge so you can seamlessly continue browsing.

Preparing your Business for the Update

It is essential to prepare your business for this update by taking the necessary steps beforehand. In order to plan an effective transition strategy for this update, it is important to consider how your business uses IE11 and which websites need it to function.

Proactive steps to ensure that you are prepared

Ensure all staff members understand which sites they need to access and if any require training to help them become familiar with using Microsoft Edge as a substitute browser. Consider this update and its effects on your day-to-day operations. If you have already transitioned from IE11 to Microsoft Edge, the update will not impact you.

Will Legacy Applications continue to function?

Businesses that rely heavily on legacy applications should pay close attention as these applications may no longer work correctly after the upgrade if not properly configured in advance. If not checked prior to the update, there could be significant disruptions to the overall productivity of those affected. Special attention should also be on assessing whether or not these legacy applications need updating or replacing prior to implementing the update from Internet Explorer 11 to Microsoft Edge across your systems.

After over a decade, it is time to bid farewell to Internet Explorer 11. It is essential for IT managers and small business owners alike to take initiative-taking steps ahead of time to ensure a smooth transition away from IE11 and towards using Microsoft Edge. Proper planning and preparation will also ensure your business is equipped with the necessary tools and resources during this transition.

Need help with this?

Click here to Download Microsoft Edge

How to set up Internet Explorer

7 Must-Know Reasons Why Your Business Needs to Backup Microsoft 365 Data

7 Must-Know Reasons Why Your Business Needs to Backup Microsoft 365 Data

by | Feb 14, 2023 | Business Management, Cybersecurity, Disaster Recovery

In today’s fast-paced digital world, your business data is the lifeblood of your business. Microsoft 365 (M365) is a powerful platform that provides a centralised location to store, manage and access this data, but relying solely on its built-in data protection features is not enough.

When it comes to data backup, many businesses make the mistake of assuming that Microsoft 365’s built-in data protection features are enough. However, relying solely on these features is not enough. Microsoft 365’s data protection is designed to provide basic protection against accidental deletion or corruption, but it does not provide comprehensive protection against all types of data loss scenarios. This is why it’s critical to have a robust backup strategy in place, one that covers all your bases and provides you with peace of mind.

Next, we explore 7 critical reasons why your business can’t afford to ignore Microsoft 365 data backup.

Data loss

Protection Against Data Loss

Backing up data your data is the best way to protect against accidental deletion, corruption or loss due to unforeseen events like software failures, hardware crashes or cyberattacks.

Regulations and Compliance

To Meet Regulatory Compliance and Standards

Certain industries have strict regulations that require businesses to maintain copies of their data. Businesses should backup data to ensure they meet their regulatory requirements, avoid legal or financial penalties and protect their reputation.

business Continuity

Securing Business Continuity

Disasters, outages, and cyberattacks can disrupt business operations, but having a robust backup plan in place can help organisations recover quickly and keep the business running, minimising downtime, and reducing the impact on the organisation and its customers.

Facilitating Data Recovery

Facilitating Data Recovery

In the event of data loss, having a backup allows organisations to quickly recover and restore their data much faster and more efficiently than recreating it from scratch. Being able to restore data reduces downtime and minimises business disruptions.

Saving Time

Saving Time and Money

Restoring data from a backup is typically faster and less expensive than recreating it from scratch. Additionally, by having a reliable backup system in place, businesses can avoid the costly expenses associated with paying a ransom to hackers in the event of a cyber-attack. This saves money and eliminates the need to negotiate with perpetrators and the risk of permanent data loss, which can be a lengthy and stressful process.

Peace of Mind

Providing Peace of Mind

Knowing that data is backed up gives organisations peace of mind, reducing the stress and anxiety associated with the possibility of data loss.

Enhancing Productivity

Enhancing Productivity

Implementing a reliable backup and recovery plan allows organisations to focus on their core business activities, rather than worrying about data loss. This can enhance productivity, improve efficiency and drive growth.

In conclusion, backing up your Microsoft 365 data and tenancy is a crucial aspect of protecting your business from data loss. From preventing data loss and meeting compliance requirements to enhancing productivity and providing peace of mind, a robust backup strategy is essential for any modern business. Don’t wait until it’s too late – take action today to ensure that your business is protected from data loss.

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Maximising ROI: How Managed IT Services Can Benefit Small Businesses

Maximising ROI: How Managed IT Services Can Benefit Small Businesses

by | Jan 27, 2023 | Business Management, Communications, I.T., IT Support Brisbane, Solutions

Managed IT services have become increasingly popular among small businesses in recent years, and for good reason. Read on to discover the benefits of outsourcing IT Services to a Managed Service Provider (MSP).

MSPs provide a range of services that can help improve the efficiency and effectiveness of business operations including:

• IT Support and Maintenance
• Cloud Services
• Network Management
• Data Backup and Recovery
• Security
• Compliance

By providing these services, MSPs provide their customers peace of mind and improve their ROI through increased efficiency, reduced costs, and increased overall competitiveness.

Our services will give you peace of mind

Cost savings

Instead of hiring a full-time IT employee, small businesses can outsource their IT needs to an MSP at a fraction of the cost. This can help small businesses keep their overhead costs low and increase their profitability. MSPs can also help small businesses identify and eliminate unnecessary IT expenses, such as software subscriptions or hardware that is no longer needed.

Increased efficiency

Managed IT services can also help small businesses increase their efficiency. MSPs can provide their clients with the latest technology and software, which can help them automate tasks and streamline processes, freeing up small business owners and employees to focus on more important tasks.

A professional MSP service will provide its customers with real-time monitoring and maintenance, which can help avoid downtime and keep operations running smoothly.

Improved security

Small enterprises are often the target of cyber-attacks, and MSPs can help protect them with advanced security solutions, such as firewalls, antivirus software, and intrusion detection systems. MSPs can also assist with compliance and regulatory requirements that small businesses must adhere to.

Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions about our Managed IT Services.