5 Options If Your Windows 10 PC FAILS The Windows 11 Compatibility Test

Posted on by
Reply


As you may know, Windows 10 will reach its end of life on October 14, 2025. After this date, Microsoft will stop providing free security and non-security updates as well as technical support for this version. While your Windows 10 PC will still function, it will no longer receive support to keep it secure and up-to-date.

If you’ve tried to upgrade to Windows 11 but your PC didn’t pass the compatibility check, don’t worry – there are still options available.

1. Ignore the End-of-Support Deadline

While this isn’t recommended, it’s technically an option. Without Windows 10 updates, your PC will lack critical security protections, leaving it vulnerable to cyber threats and viruses. In addition, the absence of technical and performance updates may lead to other issues affecting your device’s efficiency and functionality.

2. Switch to Linux

If you’re tech-savvy and not ready to replace your PC, switching from Windows to Linux could be an alternative. Linux is a robust operating system that is free and widely supported. However, be prepared for a learning curve, as transitioning to Linux often requires reconfiguring your applications and workflows. Consider this option only if you’re ready to manage potential compatibility challenges.

3. Upgrade Using a Technical Workaround

For those determined to install Windows 11 on a non-compatible PC, a workaround may be available. As outlined by ZDNet, a registry edit can allow some unsupported PCs to run Windows 11. This process requires activating Secure Boot and the Trusted Platform Module (TPM) on your device. Be aware that Microsoft may still display a warning about compatibility, advising that unsupported devices may not receive regular updates or warranty coverage. However, this option may be worth considering for tech enthusiasts willing to take the risk.

4. Opt for Windows 10 Extended Security Updates (ESUs)

Microsoft announced in December 2023 that they will offer Extended Security Updates (ESUs) for Windows 10 users through a paid subscription for up to three additional years. Here are a few key details:

  • The cost for business users starts at $61 for the first year, doubles to $122 in year two, and reaches $244 in the third year, totaling $427 over three years.
  • Educators receive discounted pricing, starting at just $1 in year one, doubling each year thereafter.
  • These ESUs do not include technical support, so users will need to solve any issues independently.

This option is designed as a temporary measure to encourage upgrading, not as a long-term fix.

5. Purchase a New, Windows 11-Compatible PC

If your device is outdated, investing in a new Windows 11-compatible PC may be the best choice. New computers offer improved performance, stronger security, and enhanced productivity tools. Be sure to back up all your data before making the switch to avoid data loss.

Take Action Now

Don’t wait until the last minute. October 2025 is closer than it seems, and planning ahead will ensure you avoid rushed decisions. If you’d like guidance in selecting the best option for your needs, our team of experts is here to help. Whether you decide to upgrade, switch operating systems, or buy new hardware, we’ll make the process as seamless as possible.

To get started, call us at 214-550-0550 or click here to book a consultation.

The Rising Threat of Cybercrime in 2024: Major Data Breaches and What They Mean for Your Business

Posted on by
Reply

2024 has been a turbulent year for cybersecurity, with major data breaches making headlines and costing businesses millions. From healthcare organizations to major tech companies, no industry is immune to these risks. But what about small to midsize businesses (SMBs)? The truth is, the same vulnerabilities apply, and the consequences of not addressing them can be severe.

Here’s a recap of five major breaches in 2024 and tips on how your business can stay protected.

1. National Public Data

Earlier this year, a hacking group claimed to have accessed 2.7 billion personal records from a public data-brokering site. This data includes sensitive information such as Social Security numbers and addresses. Some of the data has already been circulated on the dark web, although experts are still verifying its accuracy. With such a high volume of exposed data, the takeaway for everyone is clear: monitoring financial and online accounts is critical. A proactive step is to freeze your credit, which provides some defense against identity theft, unfreezing only when needed for new applications.

2. Ticketmaster

In a high-profile breach, Ticketmaster saw the personal and financial data of over 560 million customers compromised. This breach exposed security gaps within Ticketmaster’s system, and numerous victims reported cases of unauthorized transactions and identity theft. It also added to legal issues for Ticketmaster’s parent company, Live Nation. The incident highlights the importance of secure data practices and regular monitoring for suspicious activity, even when using services that feel routine.

3. Change Healthcare

In February, Change Healthcare suffered a ransomware attack that compromised the data of over 145 million individuals. This massive breach impacted patient information, including names, Social Security numbers, and medical records. With healthcare data becoming increasingly valuable, this breach serves as a reminder to all industries of the importance of regularly updating cybersecurity strategies to defend against evolving threats.

4. AT&T

In March, AT&T experienced a breach affecting around 73 million customers, with sensitive data—including Social Security numbers and account details—leaked. This data dated back as far as 2019 and was discovered on the dark web earlier this year. This breach highlights the risks of legacy data remaining unsecured, emphasizing the importance of periodic data audits and secure data management practices.

5. Dell

In May, Dell encountered a significant breach when a hacker known as Menelik used a brute-force attack to access a reseller’s client portal, exposing 49 million records. This incident raised questions about Dell’s security protocols and underscored the need for stronger access controls and monitoring systems. It also serves as a wake-up call for companies with complex vendor networks to ensure all partners adhere to rigorous cybersecurity standards.

What Can You Do to Protect Yourself?

Even if your business doesn’t have millions of customers, you’re still at risk. Cybercriminals are increasingly targeting SMBs, often because smaller companies may lack the same security resources as larger enterprises. A breach could cost your business heavily in downtime, lost data, and reputational damage.

Here are some key steps:

  1. Strengthen Network Security: Implement robust security measures, including firewalls and regular network monitoring.
  2. Employee Training: Train staff on password security, phishing awareness, and safe online practices.
  3. Data Management: Conduct regular audits and securely dispose of outdated records.

Secure Your Business with a FREE Security Risk Assessment

If these breaches have you rethinking your security, that’s a good thing. The best defense is proactive action. We’re offering a FREE Security Risk Assessment to help identify your network’s vulnerabilities. Our cybersecurity experts will assess your system, recommend critical updates, and ensure you’re safeguarded against potential threats.

Don’t wait until your business is on the line—take control of your cybersecurity today! Schedule your FREE Security Risk Assessment now by clicking here or call our office at 214-550-0550.

Your business runs on data, but so do the cyber criminals

Posted on by
Reply

Your business runs on data, but so do the cyber criminals who want to steal yours

One very painful truth about running a business is that you possess data that is attractive to criminals. There is no avoiding that reality. You have data. They want data. It is an ongoing challenge to maintain data security as cyber criminals’ efforts evolve and change on a daily basis. The wall that kept you safe last week may have holes in them today. Keeping up with the latest threats is a specialized field that in-house IT support likely doesn’t have. An MSP can provide the support you need in the face of ransomware threats and other malware. Also, an MSP can provide 24/7 monitoring.

Speaking of data security, brand damage isn’t the only issue with data security breaches. In many cases, there are data protection laws that regulate how you secure personal information. In specific industries there are federal, state, and even overseas regulations that set standards for data protection. How you choose to protect data may be out of your hands. MSPs have the experience and knowledge to address compliance management. For example, there are a number of data protection laws (HIPAA, FERPA, CA Privacy Act, GDPR, FTC Safeguards Rule) out there that not only provide penalties if a data breach occurs, but also mandate specific protocols to better ensure your data is protected. Avoiding a data breach isn’t enough. Some of these protocols can be quite demanding and some require periodic testing and are subject to audits. Samples of the types of requirements mandated by some of these laws may include.

  • Designating one individual to oversee data protection and security
  • Conducting a risk assessment – This means analyzing what data you possess , where it is stored, and in what ways it is vulnerable.
  • Creating safeguards to address all potential areas of vulnerability
  • Designing and documenting tools to secure your data and tracking access
  • Tracing the location and security of all data whether it is at rest or in transit.

Not only do you have to set up protocols, you may have to prove they are operative and be subject to audits. All of this can be extremely distracting to a small business.

Another area related to data security is the issue of backup and recovery. So much can go wrong. There is nefarious activity: criminals actively trying to break into your data and steal it. There is human error: individuals taking actions that accidently delete or damage data. And of course, hardware can fail and software can have bugs. And, if not done correctly, backups may be infected and be of little value.

An MSP can design backups that are continual and are protected at an offsite location.

More importantly, it isn’t enough to know your data is safe if something happens. Your business is dependent on using that data. Losing a day of access can cripple your business. That means planning for recovery in case something happens. How will you transition to another mode of data access? Your customers expect 24/7 availability. An MSP can develop recovery plans that work to ensure your operations see minimal disruption in the event of a failure.

Strategic IT planning for your business

Posted on by
Reply

Strategic IT planning for your business

One thing that the best MSP can do is become a strategic partner. Your expertise is your industry, business, or profession. Trends and innovations in technology aren’t your focus. However, your business can benefit from some long-term strategic planning in terms of the technology you will deploy to remain competitive. New technology will offer new opportunities. An MSP who has experience in your industry can become a partner. After taking the time to learn your business, your goals, and the competitive field in which you operate, an MSP can take a seat at the table of your business planning. At the highest level, this is where a skilled MSP becomes a significant asset as your business grows and faces new market challenges.

Additionally, An MSP can help with other parts of your IT infrastructure to protect your data as well as facilitate more effective collaboration internally as well as with clients. Here are three examples.

Backup and recovery

Another area related to data security is the process of securing your data in the event of theft, a hardware or software issue, or even a natural disaster that cuts access to your data’s physical location. Backing up your data needs to involve a lot more than running nightly backup to an external drive. That may be ok for your home laptop, but it doesn’t cut it if you want to protect your business data. An MSP can support continual data backup to offsite locations. This means at any point there is a system failure or breach, all of your data remains secure at one or more distant locations. Backup also includes recovery. Having your data safely stored in the event of a disaster isn’t enough. Your business will need continuing access to that data. An MSP can develop recovery plans that work to ensure your operations see minimal disruption in the event of a failure. Also, clean backups are critical for avoiding the consequences of a ransomware attack. Poorly handled back procedures can leave your data vulnerable,

Cloud Services

The decision to use cloud services is closely related to data security and cybercrime. Locating all of your data and software applications physically in your own location may seem like the safest thing to do, but that may not be correct. If you utilize cloud storage, you can maintain access to that data from any location. If a natural disaster or other emergency limits access to your physical locations or disables it, your business and employees can access the data from anywhere. Also, the cloud offers economies of scale. To maintain sufficient capacity to meet peak times, maintain all of the necessary hardware and software, and monitor it 24/7 involves considerable in-house labor and capital expense. Migrating to the cloud means you share those fixed costs with others. An MSP can handle selecting and designing a cloud solution most appropriate to the needs of your specific industry and business.

Unified Communications

Unified communications is a service that pulls together the different channels your employees and clients use to collaborate, sell, communicate, etc. Unified communications systems have many moving parts. Encryption, data security, ease of use, cross platform support as well as other support services can create a communications system that works for everyone, no matter what channel they choose to be using.

Was Your Information Compromised in the National Public Data Breach?

Posted on by
Reply

In September 2024, National Public Data confirmed a massive data breach that compromised the personal information of millions. The exposed data includes names, email addresses, mailing addresses, phone numbers, and Social Security numbers of up to 2.9 billion people. Here’s what you need to know about this breach and how to protect yourself.

What Happened?

National Public Data, a consumer data broker that provides criminal records, background checks, and other information to private investigators, consumer public record sites, HR departments, staffing agencies, and the government, was hacked. The breach is believed to have started in December 2023 when a third-party hacker tried to infiltrate the system.

In April 2024, a cybercriminal known as “USDoD” posted the stolen data on an underground criminal forum. By August 6, this data resurfaced and was posted for free on several breach forums, making it available for anyone to download.

The breach included sensitive information like names, addresses, phone numbers, email addresses, and Social Security numbers, some belonging to deceased individuals. In many cases, it also included past addresses and alternate names.

While the official data breach notice filed in Maine estimated that 1.3 million records were compromised, lawsuits suggest the breach may have exposed as many as 2.9 billion records.

Though experts are finding some inaccuracies in the leaked data, and much of it is already publicly available, there are still significant risks associated with this breach—especially considering the exposure of Social Security numbers.

Why Is This Breach Dangerous?

Even though much of the compromised data may be publicly accessible, having all of this information in one place makes it easier for cybercriminals to commit identity theft. Here are some specific risks:

Identity Theft: Criminals can use this information to apply for credit cards, loans, or open new bank accounts in your name.

Bypassing Security Questions: Information like childhood street names or the last four digits of your Social Security number, often used in security questions, can help hackers bypass authentication to access your accounts.

Increase in Phishing and Smishing Attacks: Experts predict a surge in phishing emails and SMS phishing (smishing) attempts as criminals exploit this data to trick victims.

Could You Be Affected?

Yes. Even if you’ve never heard of National Public Data or used their services, organizations like landlords, employers, and other businesses may have utilized their resources to access information about you.

How to Protect Yourself

If your information has been compromised in the breach, take these steps immediately to protect yourself:

1. Check If Your Data Was Exposed

Use tools like this one to see if your information was part of the breach. If it was, act quickly.

2. Freeze Your Credit

One of the best ways to protect your identity is to freeze your credit and set up alerts. This prevents criminals from opening new lines of credit in your name. Contact the three major credit bureaus—Equifax, TransUnion, and Experian—to request a freeze. The process is free and takes just a few minutes for each bureau.

It’s also a good idea to freeze the credit of other household members over 18 years old. Anyone with a Social Security number is vulnerable to identity theft after a breach of this size.

Once your credit is frozen, review your credit report for any unauthorized activity and set up alerts for future monitoring.

3. Stay Alert for Phishing Scams

Cybercriminals will likely use this leaked information to target victims through phishing emails, phone calls, text messages, and even social media scams. Be vigilant, and never click on suspicious links or share sensitive information with unknown sources.

Protect Your Business

A data breach is devastating for both the businesses that get hacked and the individuals whose data is exposed. As a business owner, it’s critical to take the necessary precautions to safeguard your organization’s sensitive data.

If you’re concerned about whether your business or personal information has been leaked or if your network is vulnerable to future breaches, we can help. Schedule a FREE Security Risk Assessment with our team. We’ll conduct a comprehensive review of your network and provide a blueprint for strengthening your security.

To book your assessment, call us at 214-550-0550 or click here.

Stay vigilant, protect your data, and take steps today to safeguard your identity.

Like it or not, you business relies on technology

Posted on by
Reply

Like it or not, your business relies on technology

Technology isn’t just something used by Silicon valley firms and large corporations. Even the smallest start-up is now reliant on technology and the virtual marketplace. A business cannot function without operating in the digital world. At the very least, it means having a website, a social media presence and an online database of customers and prospects. Most likely it means conducting business online, which means you’re responsible for the security of client data: names, credit cards, addresses, and probably more information. Much of that information may be personal Information that you have an obligation to keep secure. That duty brings along many challenges because cyber criminals and even benign human error could mean that data is compromised. Data breaches can bring litigation, possible regulatory sanctions, and very importantly, damage to your brand and reputation. Because so much rides on the stability and security of your digital infrastructure, serious attention has to be paid to data security protocols. The problem is, tech is a complex and specialized field that most small businesses owners have little time to focus on. And spending time trying to understand and maintain an IT infrastructure means siphoning off attention to the operation of your business. That is why a Managed Service provider can be a lifesaver for a small business.

A Managed Service provider is an IT consultant that can provide some or all of the support you need for your IT infrastructure. They can provide help with specific issues–migrating data to the cloud, setting up new software and hardware, designing data security protocol, etc,. They can also become a strategic partner. That means they team with you and learn your business goals and plans and help you understand how new and existing technology can help your business expand. They can use their expertise to guide you to new technologies and digital applications you might not be aware of.

Also, you can sign a service contract with an MSP. At the most basic level, a service contract will mean that if you need emergency tech support, you have priority. Otherwise, you will be at the bottom of the list if something goes wrong.

Finally, let’s consider strategic planning. Your business isn’t static, It will grow in volume, it will expand its product and service lines, and it will move into entirely new, unfamiliar markets. There may be new technologies and applications out there that you are unaware of. If you overlook them and your competitors don’t, you can begin to lag behind. You need long-term strategic planning in terms of the technology you will deploy to remain competitive. New technology will offer new opportunities. An MSP who has experience in your industry can become a partner. FInd an MSP who will partner with your business and learn your operations and your future plans. In that way they don’t just support the IT you have now, they become a key voice in strategic planning for future growth.

5 Signs It’s Time to Update Your Software (And How to Do It Safely)

Posted on by
Reply

Software updates can seem like a hassle, but ignoring them can make your systems vulnerable to cyberattacks. Hackers are constantly searching for weak points, and outdated software is often an easy target.

So, how do you know when it’s time to update? And should you always rely on your computer to tell you? Here are five clear signs that it’s time for an update, along with tips on how to update safely.

1. Your Software Is No Longer Supported

If your software provider has stopped releasing updates for your current version, it’s a major warning sign. Unsupported software is often riddled with vulnerabilities that cybercriminals can exploit. Keep an eye out for announcements about end-of-life support for your software, and upgrade before you’re left exposed.

Tip: Don’t wait until the software stops working. Proactively plan for updates and migrate to newer versions while full support is still available.

2. You Notice Slower Performance

If your software suddenly becomes sluggish, it could be outdated. Newer versions are typically optimized for better performance, while skipping updates can leave you with buggy, slow software.

Tip: If performance dips, check for pending updates in the software settings or download the latest version directly from the provider’s website.

3. You Receive Security Alerts

Has your antivirus or security software flagged vulnerabilities in an application you use? This is a strong sign that an update is overdue. Outdated software leaves the door open to security threats, so take these alerts seriously.

Tip: Use a trusted antivirus program that can detect vulnerabilities and notify you when updates are needed. Always verify update alerts before acting on them to avoid falling for phishing scams.

4. It’s Been More Than 6 Months Since Your Last Update

If you haven’t updated your software in over six months, chances are you’re due for one. Many providers release updates regularly to fix security flaws and improve functionality.

Tip: Instead of waiting for update notifications, set a reminder to check for updates on a regular basis—especially for critical software like operating systems and antivirus programs.

5. New Features Have Been Announced

Sometimes software updates come with exciting new features. If you’re hearing about tools or functionalities you don’t have, it’s a sign you’re behind on updates.

Tip: Follow your software providers’ blogs or sign up for notifications to stay informed about the latest improvements and features.

How to Update Safely

Updating software is essential, but it’s important to do it safely. Here’s how to ensure a smooth and secure update process:

Verify the Source: Only download updates from the official provider’s website or a trusted app store. Avoid third-party websites or suspicious links.

Back Up Your Data: Before any major update, back up your important files. If something goes wrong during the update, you’ll have a safety net.

Restart Your Device: Once the update is complete, restart your computer to ensure all patches and new features are fully installed.

By staying on top of your software updates, you not only improve performance but also protect your systems from cyber threats. Don’t wait until vulnerabilities are exposed—keep your software current to ensure a secure network.

Need help managing your software updates? Call us at 214-550-0550 or click here to schedule a consultation. Stay safe and stay updated!

How Can an MSP Keep Your Business Safe?

Posted on by
Reply

How Can an MSP Keep Your Business Safe?

Are you a small- or medium-sized business that is in need of a more complete, dependable IT solution to support your business than you presently have? When your main focus is running your business, everything else becomes an afterthought. Other support operations tend to take a backseat. However, your business depends upon a reliable, stable “always running” IT infrastructure and you probably find that isn’t always the case. Even if you have an in-house staff, it isn’t large enough to put out fires and handle strategic planning and provide 24/7 support when something goes wrong. That is why many businesses large and small rely fully or partially on the support of a Managed Service Provider (MSP).

So what are the typical services available from an MSP? There are many different types of support that can be provided to clients. In this e-guide we will break them down.

Managed IT Services

This is the overarching set of services that define the purpose of an MSP. Generally, a business will sign a service level contract with an MSP for a set of defined IT services for a period of time. One advantage typically derived from such an agreement is that the contract provides that you get 24/7 emergency support with priority. Typically, if you have a crisis and call a provider, the non-contract clients take a lower priority. This can mean longer down times and those mean revenue losses. Also, your contract with an MSP means that you can do a better job predicting your IT expenses into the future, and predictability is always a benefit for any enterprise.

Cyber Security Services

One specific area of expertise that everyone needs, no matter how small the business, is up-to-date, ongoing protection against data theft and cyber crimes. An MSP can bring a depth of knowledge that is difficult to create in-house. Ransomware and data theft are rampant. Cyber criminals attack businesses of any size ( in fact, small ones can be more vulnerable. And smaller businesses often don’t have the deep pockets to recover from the revenue losses of a cyber attack). This is a very specialized sector of IT management where businesses frequently choose to use the services of an MSP because of its complexity. Also, keeping up-to-date with the latest malware, and handling 24/7 monitoring can be very labor intensive if done in-house.

Compliance Management

  • There are a number of data protection laws (HIPAA, FERPA, CA Privacy Act, GDPR, FTC Safeguards Rule) out there that not only provide penalties if a data breach occurs, many of them mandate specific protocols to better ensure your data is protected. Avoiding a data breach isn’t enough. Some of these protocols can be quite demanding and some require periodic testing and are subject to audits. Samples of the types of requirements mandated by some of these laws may include.
  • Designating one individual to oversee data protection and security
  • Conducting a risk assessment – This means analyzing what data you possess, where it is stored, and in what ways it is vulnerable.
  • Creating safeguards to address all potential areas of vulnerability
  • Designing and documenting tools to secure your data and tracking access
  • Tracing the location and security of all data whether it is at rest or in transit.

An MSP can be a critical resource in designing these safety measures and ensuring your company is in compliance and remains so. Handling compliance issues and audits can be a big distraction when you are trying to run your business and drive revenues.

The S.E.C.U.R.E. Method: How to Stop Phishing Emails

Posted on by
Reply

Phishing attacks are the most common type of cybercrime for one simple reason—they work. Every day, over 3.4 billion spam emails flood inboxes around the world, with phishing attempts leading the charge. These attacks have been the most frequent form of cyber attack for years because they’re easy to execute, easy to scale, and still fool countless people. Now, with AI tools like ChatGPT, it’s even easier for cybercriminals to craft emails that look and sound more convincing, making it harder to spot a phishing attempt.

Phishing scams can have devastating effects on your business if you’re not careful. That’s why, in honor of Cybersecurity Awareness Month, we’ve created this guide to help you and your team identify phishing emails and understand the critical importance of stopping them.

The Dangers of Phishing Attacks

Phishing emails aren’t just an annoyance—they pose a real and significant threat. Here are four major risks of falling victim to these attacks:

Data Breaches
Phishing attacks can expose your company’s sensitive information to hackers. Once accessed, this data can be sold on the dark web or held for ransom. Even if you pay, there’s no guarantee the criminals will return it. This can lead to legal issues, financial loss, reputational damage, and a loss of trust from your customers.

Financial Loss
Cybercriminals often use phishing emails to steal money directly, whether by tricking businesses into paying fraudulent invoices or authorizing fake transactions. The financial impact can be severe and long-lasting.

Malware Infections
Phishing emails frequently contain malicious links or attachments. Clicking these can lead to malware infections, which can disrupt your operations, result in data loss, and require costly cleanup.

Compromised Accounts
If an employee falls for a phishing scam, their account could be compromised. This gives hackers a foothold inside your business, allowing them to launch further attacks or access confidential company data.

These dangers are just the tip of the iceberg. Fortunately, there are effective steps you can take to defend against phishing attacks.

Introducing the S.E.C.U.R.E. Method to Identify Phishing Emails

To help you and your employees spot phishing emails before they cause harm, follow the S.E.C.U.R.E. Method:

S – Start With the Subject Line
Is it strange or off? Look for odd patterns like “FWD: FWD: FWD: review immediately” or anything that seems unusual.

E – Examine the Email Address
Do you know the sender? Is the email address misspelled or unfamiliar? Be cautious if the sender’s address is slightly altered from a legitimate one.

C – Consider the Greeting
Is the greeting generic or unusual? Phishing emails often use impersonal greetings like “Hello Ma’am!” or “Dear Customer” rather than addressing you by name.

U – Unpack the Message
Does the email create a sense of urgency, encouraging you to click a link or download an attachment? Be wary of anything that seems too good to be true or pressures you to act fast.

R – Review for Errors
Are there grammatical mistakes or odd spellings? Phishing emails often contain errors that wouldn’t be present in legitimate business communications.

E – Evaluate Links and Attachments
Always hover over links to check their destination before clicking. Avoid opening attachments from unknown senders or those you weren’t expecting.

Protect Your Business From Phishing Attacks

Even with the S.E.C.U.R.E. Method in place, it’s essential to have a cybersecurity expert monitoring your network and blocking spam emails before they reach your team. Phishing attacks are frequent and effective, but with the right precautions, you can stay one step ahead of cybercriminals.

If you need assistance training your employees on cybersecurity best practices, implementing a strong security system, or simply want an expert to assess your current setup for vulnerabilities, we’re here to help. Give us a call at 214-550-0550 or click here to schedule a consultation with our team.

Don’t wait until it’s too late—protect your business from phishing scams today!

Leveraging your business data to drive better business outcomes

Posted on by
Reply

Leveraging your business data to drive better business outcomes

Smaller firms may hear about AI and how data is driving the big corporations of the world, but they often don’t realize that they can do the same. The size and age of your business doesn’t have to be a limiting factor in whether you use data. Today’s blog is a quick look at data management for the small firm.

The first lesson is: don’t take your data for granted. The basic business model for some large IT companies is monetizing the data that they collect. While this may not be your goal, you probably collect a great deal of data about your customers, prospects, and operations. An MSP can help you make better use of that data. Here are just three examples:

Marketing

Data tells you who is interested, when they’re interested, and in what they are interested. Data can tell you where each individual prospect sits in the sales funnel, so your marketing messages reach them exactly where they are. It can also track the performance of your online marketing initiatives.

Forecasting and Sales

Customer Relationship Management applications exist because of the data that can now be collected. They monitor sales efforts, nurture leads, and work to improve customer engagement.

In-house and Operations

Data can track all manner of things in your production of goods or services, identifying where resources are being spent in each step of the process. Data can also be used in scheduling and pricing, although these tools can have human resource and customer relations implications that need to be carefully considered.

Planning and the Future

Technology is more than just something to run your business today. It can be a source of innovation for the future of the business, pushing it in new directions. You should be taking a proactive view of technology as a strategic tool for the long-term growth of the business. How can new technology help with in-house software development, infrastructure upgrades, digital transformation, and product innovation? Questions to ask in this context would be “can technology improve the delivery of products and services, or improve qualitatively the nature of the product or service itself?” As part of C-suite plans to stay competitive and thrive in the market, leadership needs to understand what new technologies are available for future innovation. However, that means you need technology support that is focussed on strategic planning; understanding new technologies that can move the business forward. For an SMB, Managed Service Provider can be the CIO/CTO that understands your business and helps plans for the future.

In summary, most SMBs are limited in how they can make use of technology in their strategic planning. As a result, this may compromise their capacity to remain competitive in the long-term. Consider using an MSP as a strategic partner in your long term planning.