By: Jennifer Adams
The beginning of a new year is a time many professionals consider how to further improve their careers, offices, and methods of operation. Technology plays a vital role in the success and growth of any business. When is the best time to upgrade your office technology? The answer depends on several factors.
1. Too Much Downtime –
If your system is taking longer to load applications or the network has become sluggish handling routine traffic, its probably time to start looking into upgrading. The inconveniences and the wait time add up and interfere with employee productivity. Additionally, they also create frustration. With equipment working slowly, or not working correctly at all, employees are forced to spend time troubleshooting issues which takes them away from more important tasks.
2. Security is Compromised –
As technology ages, it becomes increasingly vulnerable to cyber crimes and security breaches because older systems are less compatible with current versions of antivirus software. Hackers are innovative and constantly working to create new ways to infiltrate networks. So, if your system is frequently under attack, then its wise to consider upgrading.
3. Maintaining the equipment has begun to cost more –
Did you know your office technology accounts for the largest portion of your energy bill? Is the technology you currently have contributing to your company’s profit margin? If the answer is no, then it may be time for a more energy efficient system. Your business depends on the system but there are more efficient options available.
4. Your Operation Has Grown (yay) or changing directions –
Has your operation grown since the last time you upgraded your technology? Is your company looking to diversify? When planning the growth of a business, envision technology’s role. More employees will mean more space, computers, more people needing an internet connection and possibly cloud services if they are working remotely and making sure the existing network has the capacity to support any upgrades or additions.
5. Your current technology is not flexible to meet future needs -
Where do you see your business in the next 3-5 years? If you decide to upgrade, invest in equipment that will minimize the need for future upgrades. For example, lease or purchase equipment that is flexible enough to accommodate any future technologies you may need, with as much memory as you can afford, so you are prepared for scalability.
As with any other large purchase, it should support your long-term plan for your business. If you are unsure, feel free to call us and talk things over with a trusted IT advisor. We are always glad to help!