Small Business Guide: How to Find IT Solutions

In today’s modern age, information technology services are fundamental to any business. Big or small, all businesses have IT infrastructure that needs to be managed. 

If you look closely, you can see the increasing trend of outsourcing IT service management. Globally, the Information Technology industry nets 3.6 trillion dollars each year.

Knowing a little bit about what these IT management companies do will help understand why businesses are flocking to them. We’ll tell you all you need to know about how to use them in your business.

Understanding Managed IT Services

Managed IT services can help businesses easily adopt new technologies.

Many times, managed IT services will provide a suite of products and services. These often include hosting email, data storage, back-up and recovery, and network monitoring. Typically the services are customizable and can be scaled for any size business. 

Outsourcing IT management to professional IT managed services can cut operating costs significantly. This cost-cutting explains why more small businesses are turning to managed IT services every day.

Identify Your Needs

Before you enlist the help of managed IT service providers, it’s important to determine what your small business IT needs are. Otherwise, you run the risk of paying a bunch of money for services you don’t need and didn’t want in the first place. 

Some good questions to ask yourself or your management team are;

• Do you need email hosting?
• Are you using cloud services?
• What about hands-on services like setting up office work stations? Do you need help there?
• Will you be installing networking hardware at your place of business?
• What services can you not do without and what can you let go of?

Managed IT solutions cover everything from point-of-sale systems to providing network security. 

That last one, network security, is often overlooked by small business owners. Although it shouldn’t be. Most small companies that experience a data breach are out of business within six months.

Now that you have a better idea of what your business IT needs are, the fun can begin. You are ready to start looking at managed IT services.

Choosing the Right Fit for Me

As an entrepreneur selecting the right services for your business is part of the job. The task itself can be daunting. There are thousands of IT companies around the world competing for your business.

It is necessary for you to put in the time to actually research your options. Really take the time to weigh the pros and cons of each.

When it comes to your small business a technician halfway around the world isn’t going to cut it. You’ll be operating in different time-zones, there may be language barriers or other unforeseen problems that can’t be easily fixed. 

When it comes to managing your IT services, it is critical to have ready access to the IT professionals your business relies on. Hiring a local IT company will have many perks. On-site support is a huge advantage most out-of-area providers can’t offer.

Finding Managed IT Services Near Me

Finding managed IT services near me in North Carolina is easy. At Aggie Technologies North Carolina, we offer world-class managed IT services to the Raleigh Durham area. 

Whatever your IT needs are we are confident that our team of highly-skilled professionals can fulfill them. Reach out today to learn more about what we can offer your business. 

 

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Keeping Your Business Secure: All About the Benefits of Cyber Security

Last year alone, hackers accessed billions of customer records and viewed highly sensitive data, such as medical and financial information.

The threat of a data breach isn’t going away anytime soon, and your customers expect your business to keep up with security.

Make sure your cyber security is more than enough to keep your customers’ data safe. Stick with us to discover all the benefits of cyber security, and learn why it matters.

Protection Against Cyber Criminals

Cyber threats impact every business and individual that uses the web. Your customers trust you to safely store their data, and you don’t want to betray that trust.

No one is truly immune to hackers, not even Twitter. However, there are steps you can take to protect your business.

While it’s important to train employees on security rules, you can take it a step further by hiring managed services.

One of the benefits of this is that you’re putting your business in the hands of those familiar with cybercrime and proper security measures.

Detect and Respond to Cyber Threats

Unfortunately, cybercriminals keep adapting and coming up with creative new ways to trick people into giving up their data.

Scammers have even pretended to be WHO (World Health Organization), sending malicious links and attachments to unwitting victims.

One of the major benefits of cyber security systems is that they can detect and respond appropriately to the latest cyber threats. It isn’t easy to keep up with all the latest cyber threats, but if you have a security team, they can handle it for you.

Saves Your Business Money

Yes, you’ll have to invest in a cyber security system, but you might actually be saving your business money.

From hiring legal experts and an investigative team to shelling out money for crisis management, data breaches cost money. It’s also likely you may lose customers, as your current customers may turn to a company with better security in place.

You Have Options

Did you know there are various types of cyber security? There’s on-premise services, cloud solutions, and also an outsourced option known as managed services.

What’s best for your business might depend on your budget and the size of your company, but you have options.

Look into each option and request more information about the security services a company offers.

Discover Threats Sooner

One of the challenges in cyber security for a business is monitoring and detecting threats early enough to stop them. Scanning for threats and scammers takes time and knowledge of the latest cyber-attacks.

The longer a data breach goes unnoticed, the worse the situation gets. Discover the problem right away with small business cyber security solutions.

Take Advantage of These Benefits of Cyber Security

If you don’t take security seriously, you could lose customers, take a massive financial hit, and have your brand’s reputation suffer.

Don’t let your business fall victim to scammers and cybercriminals. Get all of these benefits of cyber security when you invest in a cyber security solution.

Learn more about keeping your business secure, and take a look at the services we can offer you.

 

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Cost-Effective Solutions: 5 Frequently Outsourced IT Functions

An IT department is more than one person that does everything. Businesses have a lot of computer and electrical systems, from servers and networks to desktops and tablets. Small businesses need to watch every penny, so how can you have a functional IT department and keep costs low?

Many businesses that don’t have the funds for a complete IT department outsource much of the IT functions to keep costs low, and yet still have a dedicated service for their computer equipment.

We examined the most common IT functions outsourced by businesses for you. If you need these services, don’t do them yourself or hire an IT team. Outsource it and maintain your budget.

1. Outsourced IT Functions Include Software Updates

Companies use many types of proprietary software, from accounting and networking software to billing and office management. It’s important to keep these programs up to date on software patches and with the latest versions to maximize your efficiency.

Outsourced IT services can make sure your programs are up to date and take care of any issues that happen during or after the updates.

2. Managed IT Services Are There for Emergencies

Every office is centered around its IT infrastructure, and when something goes wrong, it can impact your bottom line. You don’t have the time to wait days for a fix. IT service management is there when you need them, and they can help grow your business.

If there is an IT emergency, they are available with highly qualified technicians to solve your broken computers, virus issues, or program problems.

3. An IT Services Company Updates Computer Systems

Updating computer hardware is a major investment for a business. It involves not only the purchase and installation of the machines but also transferring all data and programs. You don’t want years of billing history wiped away because of errors in transferring.

Managed IT services can help you choose the right equipment and make sure it’s a seamless transition. If there are any problems, they’re there to solve it fast.

4. Security Management Keeps Your Systems Safe

Businesses are constantly under attack from hackers looking to steal information and even blackmail businesses with ransomware. You need to have the best security for your files and information to protect your business and your customers.

Your reputation could be tarnished if sensitive information were stolen, so let managed IT services provide you with the best security and anti-virus software available. They can keep your system safe.

5. IT Services Maintain Communication Services

IT is more than just your computers—it’s also your phone, video conferencing, and data sharing. They can set up systems for VOIP phone lines, data sharing for employees from various devices, and more.

They set the systems up, maintain them, and help you learn how to use each one. Businesses today are global, and communications are the key to success whether you’re talking to a supplier in China or a satellite office.

Get Managed IT Services Today

IT functions are vital to the survival and success of businesses, but the cost of having a full IT support team is out of range for many businesses. Managed IT services give you a devoted team that’s there when you need it.

If you want to learn more about IT services and how we can help your business, then please contact us today.

 

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5 Benefits of Using Social Media for Your Small Business

The benefits of using social media for small business marketing are almost endless. No matter what your budget is or how many followers you have now, using social media for business is key. Between keeping your loyal fans engaged and finding new leads, there’s no easier and more effective way to reach your customers.

If you’re wondering where to start, this guide has you covered. We’ve rounded up everything you need to know about how to manage social media for small businesses.

1. Customer Engagement

Having a strong social media presence will help build your relationship with your customers. The more your customers see you, engage with your brand, and interact with you on social media, the more trust they will have.

Customer engagement is like looking at real estate. You need to see it, feel it, and do a little research before you buy. The same goes for choosing a new brand.

To help boost your presence, start blogging, making regular posts on social media, and ask for reviews from current happy customers. Make sure your network and IT are up to the task as well. 

2. Increase New Leads

Social media is the key to getting new leads. People are on their phones at any given minute. If your brand is regularly posting specials, coupons, news, or helpful resources, new customers will notice. 

You can help target new consumers based on their social media habits as well. You’ll be able to reach customers you don’t have currently. Paid advertisements, hashtags, contests, and new content are all great ways to extend your reach. 

3. Boost Brand Loyalty

If you have a strong social media following, you’ll want to make sure you’re keeping them engaged. Social media platforms can help strengthen customer loyalty.
Customers who already love you, are also the best people to help share your posts and promotions on social media.

Treat your customers to promotions, specials, and loyalty programs that will keep them coming back. You can offer referral bonuses and customized links to share with friends. Come up with an effective loyalty plan that strengthens your community. 

4. Find Never-Ending Ways To Reach Your Customers

One of the most important values that social media offers is the ability to reach your customers. Unlike television or radio ads, the possibilities are endless with it comes to the different social media platforms. There’s a reason digital media spending surpassed print and television in 2019, according to Vox. 

Between tweets, posts, blogging, videos, photos, and targeted ads sent directly to your customer base, there’s no better way to reach your customers and gain new followers. When it comes to reaching your base and finding new customers, social media offers a direct line to the people you want to be consumers.

5. Gives You More Credibility

A strong presence on social media offers your brand more credibility. You are the authority on what you provide. Show new and existing customers that you’re the professionals they can trust.

Use social media to strengthen your brand’s knowledge and expertise. Start a blog, offer resources, and increase your following. The more engagement and followers you have on various platforms, the more credible your brand will look to new customers.

You’ll also want to make sure your network, IT infrastructure, and capabilities can handle the extra volume and traffic. If you have a slow website or connectivity issues, your staff and consumers can’t connect effectively. 

Why Social Media for Small Business Is So Critical

Social media for small business is vital. Between the social media marketing opportunities, it provides and the reach to new customers, any time and investment you make will be dollars well spent.

If you’re ready to speak with a pro about IT management services, fill out the contact form here. With the right IT, you’ll be gaining followers, more credibility, and new customers in no time.

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7 Benefits of Using Managed IT Services

Technology plays a big part in all of our lives, this is no more true than when it comes to running a business. From setting up computer systems through to managing security, businesses have a lot of IT needs. 

One of the ways that businesses can take control of their IT needs is to hire an IT managed service provider. 

But exactly what are the benefits of outsourcing IT through managed services?

In this article, we’ll discuss seven of the top managed IT services benefits. 

1. Increased Efficiency 

A managed IT services provider knows how to improve your IT infrastructure. They’ll help you to implement changes that will have a far-reaching benefit to your business. 

2. Cost Savings and Control 

One of the best things about using a managed services provider is that you can save money. When you outsource your IT services to a third-party, you’ll only pay for the services that you use. This allows you much greater control over your IT spending. 

3. Access to Experts and Experience

While you can hire in-house IT experts, utilizing the experiences of an expert team is far easier and cheaper. Not only will you get the support of experts, but you won’t need to pay to train them.

4. Ensure You’re Compliant 

If you work in a sector such as healthcare, where you come under strict data protection laws, you’ll need to ensure you’re compliant. A managed IT services provider will be able to help you attain the level of compliance needed.

5. Remain Competitive 

If you want to keep ahead of the competition, you’ll need access to the latest standards in tech support. While you’re busy worrying about the trends in your own business, your managed IT services provider will be able to keep you ahead of the curve in terms of technology. 

6. Protect Your Business From Cybercrime

Last year, the FBI reported that cybercrime cost businesses $3.5-billion. Everyone is under threat from attack and you need to ensure your business is protected. One of the best ways that you can do this is to hire the services of a managed IT services provider. 

Protecting your business from cybercrime is not something you can afford to not do. Having the expert support and 24/7 system monitoring provided by a managed IT services provider will ensure you don’t become a victim of a cyberattack. 

7. Support Your Business Goals

If you run a small to medium-sized business, your resources will be tied up in the day-to-day running of your business. You may not have time to consider complex IT problems.

Having a managed IT service provider working for you will mean you don’t have to worry about your IT infrastructure and you can focus your attention on managing your business. 

Take Advantage of Managed IT Services Benefits 

It is fair to say that the cost of managed IT services benefits is worth it. With many great reasons to hire a managed IT services provider, your business will benefit greatly. 

At Aggie Technologies we offer a range of managed IT services. Contact us today to find out how we can help your business. 

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Understanding IT Service Management

Your business relies on the Internet and technology to function. Even just a few minutes without computers could mean major losses that you can’t afford.

If your company holds on to sensitive information, then the protection and management of your IT should be at the top of your priorities. But how can you keep track of your IT while running your business? 

There’s no substitute for an efficiently run IT team. If you’re wondering what is IT service management? Here are the facts about IT service management and why you need it.

What Is IT Service Management?

Your small business most likely relies on technology to function. This could mean accessing the Internet, using a platform to manage data and accounts, or upkeep on your business’ website.

Many of your employees probably rely on computers to get their work done. This means that any technological mishap could result in lost revenue for your business. 

IT Service Management will help you keep your business up and running by making sure everything is working the way it should. Not only does IT Service Management fix things like your content management system or website. It also budgets for new equipment such as computers, printers, servers, and other hardware. 

Having an IT service management team ensures that you don’t fall behind due to a lag in your technology.

Why Have IT Service Management?

When there are key individuals in charge of IT service management, they can bridge the gap between your IT team and your other employees. IT service management is able to communicate some of the complicated aspects of technology that your other employees aren’t familiar with.

They can also help move projects forward and foresee potential issues, including security weaknesses. This means increased productivity and protection. Your IT service manager can tackle problems faster and get your business back up and running again quickly. 

This allows your IT team to spend less time trying to figure out what work is needed and explaining things to end-users. Instead, IT can work on the issue at hand while the service manager can provide updates and detailed analysis of what is going on.

Communication can be difficult between IT departments and the rest of your business. However, the IT service manager can explain to end-users what realistic results they can expect and the timeline.

Seeing the Big Picture

When everyone is focused on their daily tasks it can be hard to see the big picture of how the IT department is functioning. However, the IT service manager is able to get an overall view of everything happening with the IT team.

The best IT service management can notice patterns or repeat problems that could prevent greater issues in the future. They can also prevent some IT issues before they happen. Their ability to take a step back, analyze data, and communicate across departments, is a valuable asset.

Having IT service management allows individual team members to focus on their specific tasks. This ensures that work is done more efficiently while the management team is able to track things on a larger scale. When a problem arises, they can quickly delegate areas of the project to the right people.

Outsourcing IT Service Management

As a small business owner, it may be hard to imagine hiring an entire IT service management team. Now that we’ve answered the question: What is IT service management? You may be wondering how you can find these services for your business.

Luckily there is a way to outsource your IT service management. If you’d like to learn more about how we can provide instant support for your small business, get started here. 

 

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Aggie Technologies

 As a managed service provider in Durham, NC, Aggie Tech NC is able to handle any of the IT services that you need. Our experienced team at Aggie Technologies will take care of everything that you need.

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