How to Fix Your IT Plan

If your business technology setup is driving you crazy, you’re not alone. Many business owners and managers have endless gripes about the technology they utilize for their business. It could be that your Wi-Fi is crawling along and not allowing for productive Internet speeds, your software feels like it was developed for Windows Vista, or you’re constantly worrying how you are going to keep your data safe. Whatever the case, it can be fixed. Listed below: how to rebuild your IT plan from scratch.

Figure Out What’s Actually Wrong

Before you can fix anything, you need to know what’s broken. Are files taking forever to load? Is your team grumbling about login issues or clunky tools? Ask around. Get specific. 

Know What You’re Aiming For

Once you know what’s not working, think about what would work. Do you need faster internet? More secure logins? Easier ways to share files with your team? Write down some goals. They don’t need to be huge, just realistic. Think practical upgrades, not Silicon Valley dreams (yet).

Make Room in the Budget (Time and Money)

Fixing IT isn’t just about money; it takes time as well. Set a budget and carve out time in your schedule to make real changes. If you don’t, it’ll stay on the back burner so long that you prioritize your biggest pain points first, then work your way through the rest.

Fix the Foundation

Every solid system starts with the basics. Here's what you need to lock down:

• Internet that works - If your connection is slow or spotty, everything else falls apart. Upgrade if you have to.
• Strong security - Firewalls, antivirus software, multi-factor authentication, and make sure you and your team have solid passwords in place
• Regular backups - Losing customer data is a nightmare. Set up cloud backups and make sure they're automatic.

Rethink the Tools You’re Using

Are you still using software from five years ago? Take a look at what your team is working with. There are current tools, especially cloud-based ones, that are easier to use, more secure, and can save you money in the long run. Don’t be afraid to try something new.

Build for the Future

Your business won’t look the same a year from now. Will you be hiring? Expanding? Whatever your plans are, your IT setup should be able to grow with you. Cloud solutions are great for this as they scale easily and don’t require you to rebuild everything down the line.

You Don’t Have to Be the IT Expert

If technology isn’t your thing, bring in some help. A good IT consultant or managed service provider can take the pressure off. They’ll help you figure out what you need, get your systems up and running, and provide support when something breaks. It’s usually worth every penny.

Keep It Fresh

Technology changes, and so will your business. Check in on your IT strategy every so often. What worked six months ago might not work now, and that’s okay. Just keep improving as you go.

Fixing your business tech doesn’t have to be a nightmare. Take it step by step, don’t try to do it all at once, and get help when you need it. A smart, updated IT setup will make your workday smoother, your team happier, and your life way less stressful.

Give Macro Systems a call today at 703-359-9211 to learn more.