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11Sep

When Is Your Business Ready For Managed IT Services?

Business Readiness

Are you a small business owner? And are you considering whether or not Managed IT Services will benefit your company? Well, the answer is almost always- yes. There is little doubt that most small businesses can benefit from Managed IT Services. Yet that in itself does not always justify the cost. Accept that they can offer solutions to common problems. So, the real question is: when does it make sense to switch from in house IT solutions to the next level which includes Managed IT Services? Managed IT Services

The Time Is Near

There is a good chance if you are already considering Managed IT Services the time might be near when you are ready to make the switch. Small business owners do not have the luxury of a never ending IT budget, therefore it is very important to recognize when your current IT management is no longer cost effective. For most small businesses this occurs when the business grows to the point of needing either a contract with a local service provider who is "on call" for IT needs or hiring a full time IT person to remain on staff. There is of course another option for small business owners to consider and that is hiring a Managed IT Services Provider to oversee their IT needs.

How To Decide

If you are still unsure that your business is ready for the switch, ask yourself the following questions:
  • Do you find IT costs are continually increasing?
  • Is it difficult to find and retain quality IT staff?
  • Is your network and workstation performance and speed decreasing?
  • Are your employees spending more time dealing with IT issues than focusing on job they have been hired to perform?
  • Do you have problems with viruses, spyware and other security issues that could threaten the confidentiality of proprietary information?
  • In the event of a natural or man-made disaster, would your network be at risk? Would recovery be a concern?
  • Do you find network downtime is increasing?
If you answered yes to one or more of the above questions, then your business is ready for Managed IT Services.

Find the Right Provider

Now that you have determined Managed IT Services are right for your business, the next challenge is finding the right provider of these services. This is a decision that should not be made lightly or rushed as the wrong provider can end up costing your company more money than your current situation. Before you begin the search for a Managed IT Services Provider you should first consider your IT budget as well as issues or problems you want to be addressed. It is important to remember that Managed IT Services are not a one-size-fits-all type of solution to business problems. Each business and industry has their own issues to contend with and a qualified Managed IT Services Provider will work with you to find the solutions that will benefit your company the most. Is a potential provider is more intent on selling you services and not listening to your needs? Then move on to another provider. The point of outsourcing your IT management is to save money and while free up your time. So you should find the best provider to oversee your technology needs. Click here to learn how your business will benefit from Managed IT Services from Profulgent Technology.
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11Sep

Outlook 2010 Scheduling Assistant

It is a common complaint in some organizations that trying to arrange a meeting with people is virtually impossible.  Scheduling an appointment usually starts with a series of emails asking when people are free.  As the number of attendees grows or shared resources are involved, like conference rooms, projectors, etc, this simple task becomes even harder to accomplish.  This is where Outlook 2010 and Exchange 2010 can help.  The Outlook 2010 Scheduling Assistant allows you to see what people have available in their calendars without them actually giving you permission to view it.  You can see the times that are booked but you cannot see any details other than the time.  The details on using these features are listed below. Click here to read more: Outlook 2010 Scheduling Assistant
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26Jun

Windows XP and Office 2003 Are No Longer Supported

You probably heard by now, if not, as of April 2014, Microsoft has shut down support for Microsoft Windows XP and Microsoft Office 2003.  Microsoft has declared these products “End of Life”, which means that Microsoft will not produce any more security updates protecting you from threats or criminals trying to get into your system.  There's nothing new about software reaching the end of its commercial life.  The problem with Microsoft Windows XP and Microsoft Office 2003 is the fact that it is still widely used in many commercial environments.  These environments will become hackerheaven.  For more details, see HackerHeaven. Strategic businesses have been working with our IT consultants over the last six months to replace and upgrade their systems.  At Profulgent Technology we want to protect our clients in every way possible.  If you are still running either of these systems in your environment, the time for change is now!  Give us a call to schedule some time with one of our consultants to discuss your upgrade options.  732.242.9345, x. 100 Profulgent Technology - Practical Solutions Business Results!

IT Support and IT Service

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26Jun

Microsoft to the FBI: Drop Dead

Microsoft has taken some heat for what some people claim is too cozy a relationship with the NSA. But they've recently gotten privacy religion. The company stood up to the FBI. And they refused to turn over data about one of their customers. This article excerpt, by Preston Gralla, originally appeared here: http://blogs.computerworld.com/privacy/23947/microsoft-fbi-drop-dead Microsoft successfully fought off the FBI. It was an attempt get “basic subscriber information” about one of Microsoft’s corporate customers, writes Brad Smith, General Counsel & Executive Vice President, Legal & Corporate Affairs in the the “Microsoft on the Issues” blog.

The Challenge

First, the FBI issued a National Security Letter asking for the info. And as part of the letter, they weren't even allowed to publicly acknowledge that it received request. In fact, it wasn’t even allowed to tell the company about it. So, Microsoft challenged it in court. Because, in the words of Smith:
“We concluded that the nondisclosure provision was unlawful...It violated our Constitutional right to free expression. It did so by hindering our practice of notifying enterprise customers when we receive legal orders related to their data.”
The FBI backed off, and agreed to call back the letter. Yesterday, documents related to the case were unsealed by a federal court in Seattle. You can read them here.

Future Effect

The case involved a corporate customer using cloud-based Office 365 and cloud data. So, hat’s the future, and likely one of the reasons it fought back against the FBI. And in its petition against the FBI request, Microsoft wrote:
“As more users migrate from locally installed software and locally stored data to cloud-based computing platforms, Microsoft increasingly is entrusted to store its customers’ data safely and securely.”
Also, they note that its contract requires that it alert them when their data is being requested:
“The Contract provides that Microsoft disclose data to satisfy legal requirements. And to comply with law or respond to lawful requests by by a regulatory or judicial body, as required in a legal proceeding. The Contract also provides that unless prohibited by law, Microsoft must use commercially reasonable efforts. This is to give notice of any such disclosures in advance, or as soon as commercially reasonable after such disclosures.”
That’s why Microsoft fought the FBI request. But it has promised its customers it would tell them when a government agency was asking for information about them. And this FBI National Security Letter banned them from doing that. Some might argue that the enterprise only did this to protect its business. But, that’s besides the point. Because for whatever reason, Microsoft stood up to the FBI and won. And that’s a good thing.
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11Jun

What to Consider About Virtual Teams

The definition of team is evolving. It is now normal to see people from different countries collaborating. However, a growing number of companies are implementing virtual teams. So you may have heard the term but does this fit your business model? Do you know what's a common business misconception? That productivity is a result of being in close proximity. But companies now realize that productivity is better measured by employee quality. So if a team has individuals motivated by personal achievement? Then, they are now invested in their work. But what about people who just want to avoid being reprimanded? Well, they probably  aren't invested and won't push themselves. Virtual teams are often made of the former. Because of this, they are powerhouses. In many businesses, virtual teams are not feasible. But, some tasks require physical presence. However, many businesses are embracing this reorganization. So, consider virtual teams as a strategy. Lastly, here are some advantages and disadvantages to consider.

Advantages

  • Recruitment based on expertise
  • Team members are more efficient
  • Teams consist of self-motived and driven members.
  • More accommodation for team’s personal lives
  • No commuting time or cost
  • No physical location means reduced overhead
  • Lower equipment costs as most teams use web-based tools
  • Managers can better evaluate the team’s overall performance because there are less social pressures

Disadvantages

  • Less social interaction demotivates some employees.
  • Loss of trust between team members.
  • Loss of physical dynamics may decrease creativity.
  • Team members may overwork themselves as managers can't see the time each task takes.
  • Managers may lose track of the team’s progress, i.e. out of site out of mind
Virtual teams make use of a selection of tech to interface. These include email, audio and video conferencing, and file sharing programs. So, below is a list of a few great programs.
  • Go to meetings – an economical option to have remote meetings
  • Yammer – a exclusive social network for businesses that makes it possible for quick communication and interaction
  • Drop Box – a free way to share files
  • Second Life – allows for interactive meetings with the use of avatars
If you would like more information on virtual teams in action, check out the articles below: http://www.theanywhereoffice.com/mobile-work/telework-viritual-teams-midmarket-companies.htm http://www.forbes.com/2010/08/19/virtual-teams-meetings-leadership-managing-cooperation.html http://www.openforum.com/articles/7-effective-tools-for-managing-a-virtual-team
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20May

Computer Backup Solutions – All Systems Go?

The subject of computer backup solutions has always been a topic of importance when it comes to preserving the data on your computer. However there are more options available to you in this arena. But this can be both a help and a hindrance. On one hand, having more options is helpful. Better solutions have been brought to the marketplace to fit your needs. But the multitude of choices might scare off users and cause them to avoid the issue altogether. That can have a disastrous ending.
Computer Backup
  It does not have to be complicated nor time consuming. So, there is no good reason not to tackle backing up your computer.

The Philosophy

We all know that backing up can preserve the information that is stored on your computer. But how far do you take your backup philosophy? It depends on what you can 'afford' to lose. To one computer user, just backing up periodically will suffice. The thought here is that if you lose your data? Then, you can restore it apart from your operating system. And the time that this takes is not a critical consideration. Many home users fall into this category. It makes sense as long as you are not dependent upon your computer for time-sensitive applications and tasks and/or for accessing and retrieving data relative to finances, etc. To another user this philosophy is not enough. Those who depend on their data and computer for more than just casual personal computing understand that if a hard drive fails, their business is down until they can get it back up and running again. Home users who store irreplaceable photographs and home video on their computers will also fall into this category. A more comprehensive backup plan is recommended to help recover from disasters in a timely fashion.

Computer Backup Solutions Options

There are several ways to tackle backups of your important data:
Built-in operating system options.
Microsoft Windows operating systems provide built-in back up capabilities that allows you to back up your documents or files onto external media. Beginning with Windows XP and its Automated System Recovery feature, each successive Microsoft desktop operating system includes the capability to help recover your entire hard drive if necessary. These backup solutions are reliable and provide a built-in way for you to back up your data without having to buy an additional program to do so.
Manual copying onto external devices.
You can always resort to the old stand-by method of backing up by manually copying your data onto an external hard drive, USB memory stick or other external device such as a recordable CD, DVD or even a floppy drive if you have one. This is cumbersome, but if you do not have a lot of files, it may be an acceptable solution for you. The pitfalls with this method are that if you have multiple files, you have to make sure you get all of them, and you may need numerous target media to save all of your files to.
Online options for backing up over the Internet.
The newest option in computer data backup solutions is provided by online companies that enable backup and restoration of your documents and files over an encrypted high-speed Internet connection to any PC. A small background application backs up and transfers your files to a hosted storage area in a remote datacenter when your computer is idle; however, this is not a comprehensive disaster recovery solution for your entire hard drive. This solution works best when targeted at protecting individual files and documents on a PC or a Mac, and is generally a subscription-based service for which you pay a monthly fee for use.
Making an image of your hard drive.
This is a more comprehensive backup and disaster recovery solution. However, it's generally performed by tech savvy users. This option includes using 3rd-party programs to make an image of your entire hard drive. Then, "re-image" the data in case of catastrophic failure to a new hard drive. Thus, it provides a hard drive disaster recovery plan. Using this solution? Well, within a short period of time, you can be back up and running with EVERYTHING intact. As if the disaster never occurred! So how do you find the best solution to fit your needs? Well, ask yourself how soon you need to be back up and running after encountering a disaster. Or how much you are willing to pay? If you can wait several days, then a computer back up program might be right for you. If you need immediate recovery, then an online solution might be the best way to go. Finally, if your business depends upon your computer and its applications and data, then you must have a more comprehensive solution. Click here to learn how [contentblock id=company] can help you protect your critical business data with our Remote Data Backup and Storage Solutions for your business in [contentblock id=location].
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19Mar

How Managed IT Services and Cloud Computing Improve Your Business

Small business owners who are not already on board the "cloud" may be missing out on a great opportunity to improve their business operations as well as profitability. Cloud computing has changed the landscape of business dramatically in the past few years. In order to reap the most rewards from technological advances, it is important first for business owners to understand what they are dealing with and how new technologies can improve the functionality of their business.

What is Cloud Computing?

To better understand this concept you must only turn to the Internet. How the Internet is used has changed greatly over the years and in terms of business, any programs or services that you use via an Internet connection could loosely be described as a cloud service. Cloud computing allows you to utilize software and services without having to run the servers or software in house. These outside vendors run the software and servers, making it possible for you to pay attention to what is most important, running your business. Examples of cloud computing services that are commonly used by businesses today include; Salesforce.com which offers programs to aid sales staff in tracking customer information and data storage backup services such as those offered from Amazon.com.

Benefits of Cloud Computing

As more and more businesses are relying on cloud computing services you might wonder how they can benefit your business. There are many benefits including long term reduction of software and computer costs, improved data security (secure off site backup and storage) and increased functionality and customer service. As cloud computing continues to evolve and offer additional products and services, many businesses that are currently on the fence will make the decision to venture to "the cloud".

Managed IT Services Can Make the Transition to Cloud Computing easier

Despite the growing popularity of cloud computing and the increased number of companies utilizing these services, not all business owners nor customers are completely convinced this is the way to go. There is little doubt that this area of technology will continue to develop and likely become main stream within a few years. With that in mind, business owners who question this technology can benefit greatly by consulting with managed service providers to help guide them through any transitions. Managed services providers are up-to-date with all new technology and can offer services that include cloud computing to improve the way your business runs as well as provide much needed assistance in the event of a man-made or natural disaster. By working with a Managed IT Services Provider your business can immediately reap the rewards of cloud services while still having trained professionals in your corner to ensure your business is adequately protected and invested in this technology. Finding the right managed services provider can make the difference between your small business increasing efficiency and improving functionality versus getting left behind in the virtual dust. Working with a qualified managed services provider will eliminate much of the confusion associated with "new" technology and position your business in a place where you can compete with others in your field while reducing in-house IT costs. Click here to learn how [contentblock id=company] can help you benefit from the Cloud with our Cloud Computing Solutions for your business in [contentblock id=location].
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11Mar

Free business continuity and disaster recovery plan review

Hurricane Sandy last year followed by the recent tornado that hit Oklahoma has truly put things in to perspective why businesses need to prepare for disasters. The safety of your employees should be your number 1 concern followed by the plan to protect your business along with the data and applications that run it. Give us a call to discuss a no-cost business continuity and disaster recovery plan review. http://www.ready.gov/business/implementation/IT
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06Mar

Is the iPad Useful as a Mobile Computing Device for Businesses?

Apple+IPad+Stock+LNAL16SHbnkl   Some businesses have jumped on the iPad wagon and are finding creative ways to use the iPad as a mobile computing device. For example, the Global Mundo Tapas restaurant in Sydney, Australia uses the iPad as an interactive menu. There's a budget airline, Jetstar Airways, using the iPad for in-flight entertainment, rented for $10 a flight. A luxury sedan by Hyundai comes with an iPad instead of a user manual. Other than these extreme cases, how can an iPad be used to increase productivity or convenience by the average business owner? Conventions and Workshops Do you travel to conventions and workshops for your business? Many people bring their laptop to these events. While laptops are of course very convenient compared to a desktop pc for traveling, the iPad weighs less and could be even more convenient if you're traveling from room to room at a convention or workshop. These events are also often designed for networking – so you're not just sitting at the table all day, glued to your laptop. The smaller, 2 pound iPad could be slipped into your purse or a small bag while you walk around the room, or even carried in your hand for easy access as needed, but without being cumbersome. Flights and Traveling It's true a laptop can go on a flight with you, but even the smaller netbooks and laptops add to the weight of your carry on bags and can be frustrating when in the small seats of the plane. If you're sitting in coach, you know every time the person next to you has to get up to use the bathroom you're trying to balance the laptop and whatever else you happened to have out in your hands with turbulence knocking you around the aisle. The iPad could be slid into the pocket of the seat in front of you if you have to get out of the way for the passenger next to you – it's about the size of a magazine. The same holds true on trains, in taxi cabs, or as a passenger in someone else's car. Just don't try to use your iPad while driving, yourself. Presentations & Sales Do you travel to client offices to give presentations? How sleek would it be to whip out your iPad and give a sales presentation or demonstration? Apple reports that iPads can connect to the majority of projectors, so you could even broadcast that presentation over a large screen for a larger audience if necessary. Replace Your Briefcase Sure, the iPad has a word processor and spreadsheet. Those are always useful for business people. It would be much more convenient to read and edit documents on an iPad over your iPhone while on the road. But what about the stack of magazines and newspapers you lug around with you in your briefcase? You could have all of your reading materials ready for you on the iPad and skip the briefcase. Use it as an ebook reader, newspaper subscription, and file storage and you've literally got everything at your fingertips. With the use of third party Apps, there's little you can't do with the iPad for as a mobile computing device for your business. Click here to learn how [contentblock id=company] can help you get the most out of your iPads, Smartphones and other mobile devices with our Mobile Computing Services for your business in [contentblock id=location].
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