When IT works properly, you don’t give it some thought, and that’s the way it needs to be. However when small issues begin slipping via the cracks, it could actually quietly price you time, cash and productiveness.
In our work with medium-sized companies, particularly in manufacturing {and professional} providers, we regularly see the identical IT errors cropping up repeatedly. They’re not dramatic, however over time they create frustration, inefficiencies and pointless prices.
Listed here are 5 of the most typical points we see, together with some sensible methods to get forward of them.
1. Paying for software program nobody’s utilizing
It’s surprisingly straightforward for software program prices to spiral. Somebody leaves the enterprise, however their Microsoft 365 licence retains operating. A brand new device is trialled, forgotten about, and the subscription quietly renews. Earlier than you already know it, your IT price range is being chipped away by instruments nobody is definitely utilizing.
What to do:
Make time each couple of months to assessment your licences and subscriptions. If you happen to’re utilizing Microsoft 365, verify that solely energetic customers are being billed. The identical goes for different platforms – take a look at utilization, not simply price, and cancel or reallocate something that’s now not wanted.
2. Hanging on to outdated gear for too lengthy
We’ve all achieved it. That outdated laptop computer “nearly works”, so it will get saved as a backup. A server within the nook of the workplace remains to be operating, so nobody desires to the touch it. However ageing tech slows your crew down, results in extra help points and infrequently finally ends up costing greater than it saves.
What to do:
Put a fundamental {hardware} lifecycle in place. Evaluate your gear yearly and have a plan for changing something that’s slowing your online business down. It’d really feel like a spend up entrance, however it could actually lower your expenses on repairs, downtime and inefficiency in the long term.
3. Utilizing Microsoft Groups… however nonetheless emailing all the pieces
Many companies have invested in Microsoft Groups however haven’t modified how they really work. Recordsdata are nonetheless emailed backwards and forwards, conversations are misplaced in inboxes, and collaboration doesn’t actually occur.
What to do:
If you happen to’re utilizing Groups, make it the central place for communication and collaboration. Retailer shared information in channels, use chat as an alternative of lengthy e-mail threads, and reap the benefits of options like process lists, assembly notes and integrations with different Microsoft instruments. It creates a clearer, sooner approach to work.
4. Ready for IT issues earlier than doing something
IT is usually handled as one thing that solely wants consideration when it goes flawed. However reacting to issues, fairly than planning forward, results in rushed selections, further prices and avoidable disruptions.
What to do:
Arrange common IT critiques – even quarterly catch-ups could make a giant distinction. Use them to identify potential points early, plan upgrades, and ensure your expertise is aligned with how your online business is evolving.
5. Underusing instruments you’re already paying for
Most companies have already got entry to instruments that might make a giant distinction to the way in which they work – they only don’t realise it. Microsoft 365 alone contains issues like OneNote, Planner, Types and automation instruments, however many groups solely use Outlook, Phrase and Excel.
What to do:
Ask your IT companion to stroll you thru what’s included in your present setup. It’s possible you’ll discover instruments that may simplify handbook duties, scale back admin and even substitute different subscriptions you’re paying for individually.
Want a hand getting extra out of your IT?
At Neuways, we assist companies throughout the UK reduce via the noise and get actual worth from their IT. Whether or not it’s reviewing your setup, trimming pointless prices or serving to your crew take advantage of what they’ve already bought, we’re right here that can assist you make sensible, sensible enhancements.
If any of the problems above sound acquainted, we’d be joyful to have a chat – no jargon, no strain. Simply clear recommendation to assist your IT work more durable for your online business.
