As our clients know, there are several different layers of comprehensive IT care. In some cases, simply having 24/7 monitoring and trained technicians on-call isn’t enough. There are certain instances in which it makes sense to have a written plan to guide you through an intensive process.
This is something business owners – and even careless IT vendors – can sometimes forget. Whether it’s due to an oversight, being in a rush, or just a lack of concern for the right outcomes, going into some situations without a written strategy can lead to expensive setbacks and problems.
In order to help you avoid those kinds of blunders, let’s look at four times you definitely need a written IT plan in place…
#1 When You Are Thinking about Backup and Recovery
Being ready to restore your business to full functionality after a fire, earthquake, or other unplanned event takes more than putting the right hardware and software into place. You need a written strategy that outlines what the procedures will be to get your business up-and-running again as quickly as possible so no details are overlooked. When the unexpected happens, having a written plan can mean the difference between getting back to profitability in days or months.
#2 When You Are Opening New or Relocated Facilities
It’s a common misconception that moving your business from one location to another is as simple as ordering some new furniture and re-connecting important cables. However, there are important considerations having to do with backup files, power requirements, climate control, and so much more. Plus, one small mistake can stop your tech from working the way it used to. That’s why it’s crucial that you and your outsourced IT team have a written plan to work from.
#3 When You Are Implementing Major Hardware or Software Upgrades
Upgrading your technology can be a wonderful way to improve your functionality and even cut costs. Unfortunately, not every new piece of hardware or software is going to work exactly as you expect it to right out of the box. In fact, the bigger the change that’s being made, the more need there is for an extensive testing and troubleshooting program to be put into place. Before you start changing out things like apps and devices, make sure you have a set of notes that will help you manage the process.
#4 When You Are Putting Data Security Policies in Place
Having written data security procedures is a good idea for several reasons. First, it will prevent you and your employees from making preventable mistakes that could end up costing your business lots of money. Next, it helps to limit your liability in the event that a data breach does occur. And finally, it can serve as a reminder of just how important it is to make sure that everyone in your company is being as safe as possible with sensitive information at all times.
Want IT Support That’s Focused on You?
If you’re tired of wasting time and money by maintaining your own technology – or worse, paying an outsourced IT vendor who seems to care more about their bottom line than your business goals – it’s time to make a change. Call the fantastic IT team in Southern California today to see how we can help!