Navigating 2024: Technology Best Practices for Professional Services & Small Businesses
Posted 22nd January 2024
In with the New: Technological Practices to Embrace
As we welcome in the new year, we’re bombarded with new goals, visions and missions for what we hope to achieve in the following 12 months. Staying ahead in a rapidly evolving digital landscape is a strategic decision to enhance your business growth.
Here are some key technological practices that small businesses should embrace in 2024:
1. Cyber Insurance and Cybersecurity Measures:
Why Embrace: With cyber threats on the rise, investing in cyber insurance and robust cybersecurity measures is crucial. This proactive approach safeguards sensitive client data, builds trust, and protects your business from potential financial losses. Everything you will read about 2024 trends will include cyber security, as technology advances so do cybercriminals so protecting your business is essential.
2. Quality, Robust Equipment for Staff:
Why Embrace: Equip your team with high-quality, up-to-date technology tools. Investing in robust equipment not only enhances productivity but also fosters a positive and efficient work environment.
3. Cloud Computing
Why Embrace: The world is going paperless, and we recommend you do to. Cloud services provide scalable and flexible solutions for data storage, collaboration, and software applications. Platforms like AWS, Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud offer a range of services suitable for small businesses.
4. Regular Security Training:
Why Embrace: Cybersecurity is a shared responsibility. Regular security training for your staff is essential to keep them informed about the latest threats and ensure they have the knowledge to identify and mitigate potential risks.
5. Remote work Solutions
Why Embrace: Remote work is a new norm. Facilitate remote work with tools like VPNs, remote desktop software, and project management platforms to maintain productivity outside the traditional office setting.
6. Partnership with Managed Service Providers (MSPs):
Why Embrace: Say goodbye to dealing with IT issues on your own. Partnering with an MSP provides your business with expert IT support, strategic planning, and proactive management, allowing you to focus on your core professional services.
Out with the Old: Technological Practices to Bid Farewell
As we embrace new technological frontiers, it's equally important to bid farewell to outdated practices that may hinder your business's growth and security.
Here are some practices that small businesses should leave behind in the new year:
1. Falling Victim to Phishing Attacks:
Why Say Goodbye: Phishing attacks are becoming more sophisticated. Educate your team, implement email filtering tools, and stay vigilant to avoid falling victim to these potentially devastating cyber threats. Ps.. partnering with a technology provider and providing regular training will help with this!
2. Waiting for Long Tickets:
Why Say Goodbye: The era of waiting for extended periods for IT issue resolution is over. Global organisations and brands are known for difficult customer service. Partner with an technology for prompt and efficient support, minimising downtime and ensuring business continuity with expert help.
3. Dealing with IT on Their Own:
Why Say Goodbye: Empower your team by encouraging collaboration with IT professionals and MSPs. Say goodbye to the days of tackling complex IT issues independently, and embrace a culture of seeking expert assistance. Whether it’s Microsoft 365, setting up mailbox or backing up emails – handing it over to a technology provider will be the release your staff need to focus on their responsibilities.
4. Outdated Technology Practices:
Why Say Goodbye: Bid farewell to outdated software, firmware, and hardware. Regularly assess and update your technology infrastructure to ensure it aligns with the latest industry standards, improving efficiency and security.
As we embark on a new year, the landscape of professional services is evolving, and so should our technological practices. Embracing these technological advancements will not only future-proof your small business but also position it for sustained success and resilience in an ever-changing digital world.
Don’t let technology and bad practice hold you back in 2024. Partner with us this year to enable you to focus on what you do best.