As we continue the easing process out of lockdown, many will be anticipating their increasing mobility in the coming months. For some, a return to office life will be welcomed but for many, “blended working” looks set to be the future with many companies planning for a combination of home and office working. In previous newsletters we have discussed how IT can facilitate efficiencies in day-to-day business life and aid a more sustainable approach with a strong focus on improving your cyber security. That’s quite a lot to deal with and, in this edition, we’ve looked at some of the key components for building your tailored IT solution.
Your Virtual IT Department
Many businesses start with a rather ad hoc approach to IT services as having a dedicated IT person within the business is hard to justify from a financial perspective and, furthermore, it’s very hard for one person to keep abreast of the broad spectrum of IT services and software package developments. Thankfully, there is a cost-effective solution available via a Managed Services contract where Shoal becomes your “Virtual IT department”. Not only do you acquire easy access to our Helpdesk (24/7 if needed), but also proactive monitoring and maintenance of your IT systems. This can enable more effective use of your IT services, highlighting potential issues in advance whilst ensuring necessary updates are completed in a timely manner, boosting your cyber security efforts. Your Account Manager will work with you to provide the right IT foundation to allow efficient day-to-day business operations as the platform for your future growth. We have a range of packages tailored to suit your needs so do get in touch!
Cyber Security
Many small businesses think that cyber-attacks only happen to large companies and, in this 2020 survey from Bullguard, there are some alarming statistics: 58% of (UK & US) small businesses surveyed think it wouldn’t happen to them, 43% have no defence plan and 50% don’t provide cyber security training. We have frequently discussed how increased WFH has seen a sharp rise in hacking attacks over the pandemic. A blended working environment with multiple locations and associated travel is yet another strong argument for implementing cyber security measures. Whether you are looking to ensure you have the basic measure in place or are seeking Cyber Essentials certification and/or IASME governance do get in touch with us [email protected]
Sustainable Development
Many of you will already be aware that the UK is hosting the next UN Climate Change congress (COP26) in Glasgow in November this year. The “build back greener” post-pandemic mantra has already seen some announcements, for example the clean energy plans set out by the UK government in December 2020, however, as the pandemic hopefully eases further, it seems likely we will start to see more “green” announcements in the run up to COP26. This Guardian article outlines several community “grass roots” schemes across the UK but it’s worth remembering that it’s not just “big” changes that help achieve sustainability goals, it’s all the little ones too. IT can provide the tools for businesses to run more efficiently but the equipment needs both energy and components – recycling electrical items helps reuse those natural resources, conserving power by shutting down your computer properly, unplugging your chargers (and changing your lightbulbs) can all help save energy (and money!)… better still, switch to renewable energy, especially as relative costs continue to fall as evidenced in this 2020 report from CarbonBrief.