How Cloud Computing Can Benefit Your Businesses

Posting Date: 02/21/2013  |   Filed Under: Data Back-up, Internet, Security, Technology  |   No Comments
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How Cloud Computing Can Benefit Your Businesses

More than ever, business owners need to squeeze even more productivity out of limited time, staffing and resources. Many small businesses see cloud computing as a way to access

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advanced technologies that were previously affordable only for larger companies. A recent survey conducted by CompTIA, a nonprofit IT industry trade association, stated that more than half of micro businesses (one to nine employees) and small businesses (ten to ninety-nine employees) use cloud-based business productivity applications. Analysts and industry leaders agree that global demand for hosted IT services will continue to expand rapidly as cloud-based solutions offer significant resolutions for organizations of all types and sizes. Can cloud computing services help your business succeed in the marketplace?

What can be Done to Avoid a Catastrophic Data Loss?

Finding the right business tools is an important task. Cloud computing can help your business edge out the competition with reduced costs and enhanced productivity in a number of ways:

• The latest innovations in cloud computing are making business applications even more mobile and collaborative in ways similar to Facebook and Twitter. Consumers expect information in real time and more business applications in the cloud are heading in that direction.

• Accessing specialized computer resources as they are needed enables businesses to quickly deliver quality results with greater affordability. Faster turn-around time can propel you ahead of your competition.

• You can bring your product to market faster and generate higher revenues as customers are able to access the service immediately.

• Cloud computing can enable innovative business initiatives that generate new value propositions and revenue streams. Some companies, such as Spotify, are building entirely new business models solely using cloud services.

• Cloud computing services can help you gain “business agility” with efficient projects that allow your employees to spend their time on work that has a greater potential value to your business.

• Cloud2Utilizing cloud computing services can enable your business to shift from a capital expense model to an operational expense model. By forgoing long term financial IT commitments, an organization can complete projects more quickly without losing any investment.

Cloud computing might sound over-hyped and tech-heavy, but in reality it’s a rising trend among small business owners. If you want to learn more about the advantages of cloud computing for your business, contact your local Geeks On Call office. One of our computer professionals will be happy to meet with you to explore the benefits of cloud computing for you and your business.

Webinar Invitation: Obtaining the Money Your Business Needs Today to Grow Tomorrow

Posting Date: 01/24/2013  |   Filed Under: Tips, Webinar  |   No Comments
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Please join us for Obtaining the Money Your Business Needs Today to Grow Tomorrow on Thursday, January 31 at 4:00- 4:30 pm EST.

Today’s lending market is tough and money is tight for unprepared borrowers. This 30 minute informational webinar will be conducted by Tom Payne, President of Northpoint Commercial Credit, LLC. As an expert in the field, Mr. Payne will provide professional tips on how to best position your business when you are applying for funding of any amount.

This event is free of charge. To register for the webinar, please go to: https://www3.gotomeeting.com/register/224051998

Can Your Business Survive a Data Loss?

Posting Date: 01/17/2013  |   Filed Under: Data Back-up  |   No Comments
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Data Loss Prevention is Critical for Small and Medium-Sized Businesses

Many businesses report that they are inadequately prepared to combat the risk or have the ability to bounce-back from a catastrophic data loss. There are a variety of factors that affect the majority of businesses today and may increase their susceptibility of a data loss:

  • The number of online security threats has increased.
  • Businesses are often using out of date technology for their data backup and storage needs and assume that it is working.
  • Business owners incorrectly assume that quality backup services are too expensive or beyond what they need.
  • Many companies are trending towards BYOD- or “bring your own device”- and therefore there is an increasing amount of company and client data stored on employees’ personal laptops, smartphones, tablets and other mobile devices, that is likely not protected or backed-up even if the company devices are.

What is the Real Cost of Data Loss to a Business Owner?

The Gartner Group states that 43 percent of companies were immediately put out of business by a major loss of computer records, and within two years another 51 percent permanently closed their doors. This leaves a mere six percent “survival” rate.

But what about a loss that is not catastrophic? This type of data loss is also an expensive problem. According to a recent survey conducted by Ponemon Institute, data loss can cost an organization an estimated average of $200 per affected record, though to some degree the true costs associated with data loss are difficult to measure.

What can be Done to Avoid a Catastrophic Data Loss?
The implementation of a data protection program is essential for every organization. While most business owners recognize that their data files are their livelihood, more than half admit to not having a quality data backup protocol in place. Here are some tips on what you can start doing today to protect your business:

  •  Accept the fact that your data is at risk. The reality is that computer hard drives, whether on a server, a desktop, or a laptop, will fail.
  • Check the viability of the backed up data regularly. Don’t make the mistake of assuming that your backups are being done, whether your company uses a manual or automated backup process. Also, never assume the data is retrievable. Talk with your Geeks on Call technician about your current backup solution to verify that it is still the best option for your needs.
  • Invest now to save money, and your business, later. An automated and fully protected backup service starts at about $30 per month (depending on the amount of data being backed up) and provides you with the peace of mind that your data, and your business, are protected. The cost of attempting to recover deleted data, once lost, is significantly more expensive and is estimated that 20% of lost data is not recoverable!
  • Make data protection a company-wide initiative. Work with your computer services professional to develop policies and a plan of action for all employees to follow regarding the proper location and access to company data to ensure that data is being backed up as well.
  • If you don’t have a data backup and recovery plan, get one! Call your local Geeks on Call and request an evaluation of your data backup needs. They will then be able to provide you with options that will meet the specific needs of the business and your budget.

Taking a proactive approach to protecting your data and establishing a plan for recovery in the event of a loss is smart business. Ask your local Geeks on Call about the best protective mechanisms for your data or for assistance with any of the above recommended tips before it is too late!

 

How To Use Social Media

Posting Date: 07/23/2012  |   Filed Under: Internet, Social Media, Tips  |   No Comments
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The words “social media” can be intimidating if you are new to the idea. We have a few simple tips to give you the confidence you need to make a splash in the social networks.

  1. Just Jump In. It doesn’t matter if you’ve never visited Twitter before. Create an account and start Tweeting! Find users who share interests or are already talking about your industry. Follow them. Respond to questions or comments about your niche.
  2. Be Honest. This is crucial. Social network users can smell a poser a mile away. Write like a human and you won’t end up sounding like a robot, or even worse, a sales pitch. Don’t pretend to be more knowledgeable than you are and do share your enthusiasm for the job you do. Throw in some personal posts or Tweets so others can feel that human connection that we all crave.
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10 Common Tech Problems

Posting Date: 07/12/2012  |   Filed Under: Technology, Tips  |   No Comments
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Does your small business make any of these 10 common tech mistakes? Take a minute and find out if your tech department needs a few tweaks or an overhaul.

  1.  Not Enough Training - Every business has to keep up with new technology or risk becoming outdated. However, you can’t just purchase new software and leave your employees to figure it out on their own! In fact, even providing training personnel may not be enough to get your business in shape. Employees are often intimidated by new systems, but you can create performance review goals or require certification to encourage your employees to learn the necessary skills. You can also offer online or computer classes or instruction books that your employees can work through at their own pace.
  2. Not Enough Tech Support - Your computers and software are quite possibly the most vital investment you can make for your business. Don’t trust these delicate systems to just anyone! A manufacturer will often give you basic fixes, but a true tech expert can dig deeper. Geeks On Call offers trustworthy experts who can troubleshoot even the most complex tech issues. We will give you cost-effective and personalized tech solutions – because your business isn’t generic, and neither are your software questions.
  3. Spyware Dangers - If you’ve had any experience with spyware, you know how destructive it can be! Spyware targets the sensitive information of your employees and your company and can lead to a flood of annoying ads that can carry viruses. Geeks On Call recommends that you take some measures to protect your company’s privacy. Start by purchasing a good antivirus and anti-spyware program. The small amount you will spend is well worth it for the peace of mind you’ll enjoy when you know your information is secure. You may even require an additional anti-spyware program that will protect your company. Once you have the programs installed, keep them updated! Scan your systems on a regular basis.
  4. Hardware and Software Age - Your PC has a shelf life. If you want to avoid paying ever-increasing repair costs, you will need to replace your computers every 3-4 years. You’ll also need to make sure all your computers are standardized! This step includes all software applications. It’s vital to have a system that works seamlessly to fulfill the expectations of today’s clients. Speed and reliability are crucial to your business.
  5.  Lack Of Security - Spyware isn’t the only way your information can be leaked or stolen. At Geeks On Call, we are very familiar with the cost of poor security. You can lose more than information – you can lose the faith of your customers, your reputation, a lot of money, and huge amounts of time. Taking a strong stand against identity theft and other attacks must be a priority. There are a few ways you can protect your company from these hazards. First of all, insist on strong passwords for all accounts! Do not allow guest accounts or file-sharing programs, and let us guide you to the best firewalls for your system. You should also make sure any wireless networks are safe.
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