Guest Blog: Your spring IT check up
As the days get longer and the weather improves, this is a good time to make sure your business IT is in good shape for the rest of the year.
If you review these key aspects of your company's technology about once a year, it'll help you stay up to date and make sure you're spending your IT budget wisely.
1. Check your business internet package
Fast fibre optic cabling is being installed up and down the UK at the moment. If it's hit your area, there's a good chance you could get a much faster internet connection without paying much more.
And even if you're happy with your existing provider, give them a call to negotiate a better deal. Assuming you're out of your minimum contract period, they may be willing to offer a discount if you promise to stay loyal.
2. Evaluate your web hosting
Think about your web hosting provider over the last year. Have you been happy with their service? Have you had any problems? Do you find you get close to their data transfer limit each month?
If you're starting to push the limits of your hosting package, it's usually a good idea to upgrade early, rather than rushing to change when you finally do max out your service. Hosting companies often offer deals too, so it pays to shop around.
3. Review your IT support
Many smaller companies have a close relationship with a trusted IT supplier that handles problems and requests quickly, politely and effectively. Walking away from a relationship like that just to save a few quid is probably a mistake, but it's still worth ensuring your IT support requirements are being properly met.
Is the cover you have still right for your needs? Have you bought any new IT equipment or cloud computing services that aren't included in your existing support agreement?
4. Update your IT inventory
Do you have an accurate record of all the software and hardware that's in your company? If not, you could be paying for software you're not using, or failing to make the most efficient use of the equipment you do have.
Creating an IT inventory doesn't have to be a nightmare, either. There are free tools available to help you, and once you've done it, keeping it updated is relatively straightforward.
5. Ask your staff if they're happy
Sometimes it's hard to identify what issues your team are having with your company's IT systems. Even if everything's running smoothly, there are probably things you could add or change to make their lives easier.
It might be introducing a bring your own device (BYOD) scheme, so your team can start using their own smart phones and tablets at work (it's a good way to control costs too). Or it might simply be investing in some new computer mice and keyboards to replace your old worn out ones. If you don't ask, you won't know.
John McGarvey writes about subjects like security and business hosting for IT Donut .
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