Expert advice for building a resilient IT infrastructure to support your business
In today’s fast-paced technological landscape, staying ahead of the curve is essential for business success. IT support should never be overlooked – it plays a critical role in ensuring companies remain competitive and up-to-date with the latest advancements.
Organisations of all sizes depend on effective IT solutions to drive their operations forward and fuel growth. The scope of IT is vast, encompassing everything from cutting-edge technology and digital tools that streamline processes, automate tasks, enhance efficiency and reduce human errors, to effective communication and collaboration tools which facilitate seamless information sharing and problem-solving, even in hybrid work environments.
A robust IT setup not only minimises downtime but also ensures smooth business operations, reduces customer disruptions and enables quick issue resolution. “For some small and medium-sized businesses, IT can be seen as a necessary evil or a basic requirement, but there is so much more to it,” says Nick Potter, commercial director of Select Technology. “My advice is to embrace and leverage the latest technology as an enabler to propel your business forward. Don’t view it as something intimidating, costly or out of reach – innovation is accessible to every organisation.”
Nick further emphasises: “IT support isn’t solely about the right technology; it’s also about the people and relationships involved. I would urge you to use your IT partner as much as possible – the more they know about you and your business, the more tailored and strategic their support can be.”
Based in Tonbridge, Kent, Select Technology offers a comprehensive range of IT services – from its fully managed IT support package WorkTogether to expert consultancy on the latest AI and technology innovations, cybersecurity solutions and more. “This year marks our 30th anniversary,” Nick Potter proudly states. “We take great pride in the long-term partnerships we’ve built with our clients. Our goal is to invest in our customers for the long haul, becoming an extension of their teams. We work collaboratively to ensure their day-to-day operations run smoothly while also supporting their growth through consultancy, infrastructure projects, and procurement of software and hardware.”
At present, Select Technology is receiving numerous inquiries from customers interested in exploring AI and automation opportunities. The team have been busy conducting demos and readiness workshops for Copilot for Microsoft 365 and assisting clients in utilising Microsoft’s Power Platform to streamline their business processes through automation. “It is amazing how quickly a solution can be deployed to solve a business problem that has been lingering for months or even years,” Nick notes.
Expanding on AI – a topic currently generating significant buzz – Nick explains: “AI isn’t going anywhere. It can seem daunting at first, but our number one tip is to start small. Begin by integrating AI into one specific area of your business and learn from that initial implementation in terms of both benefits and challenges.” With this approach in mind, Select Technology has been helping businesses prepare their data and information for AI. As Nick highlights, the most substantial benefits will accrue to those with a solid foundational setup.
A critical aspect of IT support that must not be overlooked is cybersecurity. Nick goes on to advise: “I can’t stress how important a robust approach is for businesses of all sizes. Cybersecurity is much more than protecting your business from threats and security breaches. More and more, being compliant with recognised cybersecurity practices and certifications is a necessity and could be the difference between growing your business and losing out on new opportunities. Becoming Cyber Essentials certified is a great way to protect your business and remain competitive.”
As we continue to expand the digital age with more programmes, software and apps becoming online-based, businesses are becoming more reliant on their IT and systems working 100% of the time. Without a suitable connectivity solution in place, most businesses would struggle to operate effectively or, in many cases, at all. From email communications and online transactions to customer inquiries, accounting and electronic payment systems, connectivity forms the backbone of most business functions.
Connectivity is Orbital Net’s specialty. For the past 25 years, this Canterbury-based company has helped hundreds of businesses discover the most innovative and efficient internet connectivity solutions to meet their unique needs. So, who better to provide insight on the subject than operations director Mike Watts?
Mike explains that effective IT and connectivity are invaluable to businesses today – they are essential for communication, financial transactions, customer service and overall business operations. “A statistic often cited in the industry is that businesses can face severe financial hardship or even bankruptcy if they experience prolonged connectivity outages or lost critical data,” shares Mike. “A study carried out by the British Chambers of Commerce found that 93% of businesses that suffer data loss for more than 10 days file for bankruptcy within one year, and 50% do so immediately.”
With this in mind, investing in robust and reliable IT infrastructure becomes paramount. One of the most crucial pieces of advice Orbital offers to businesses is to always keep track of capacity and apply continual service improvement plans, in parallel with developing longer-term strategies. “This forward-thinking approach is essential for budgeting and preparing for growth while remaining adaptable to new technological advancements,” says Mike.
Mike recommends building a strategy to include several key elements. He explains: “Start with budgeting for growth by working with stakeholders from across the business to scope requirements and identify needs and challenges. Allocate investments that support your business goals, including infrastructure upgrades, innovative technology implementations, and staff training. Next, create a technological roadmap that outlines the technologies and systems you plan to adopt, upgrade or phase out over the next few years. Ensure this roadmap aligns with your overall business strategy. Finally, focus on risk management by identifying potential risks, such as cybersecurity threats or compliance changes, and developing mitigation strategies to address them.”
While having a long-term strategy is essential for businesses, it’s equally important to review and adjust this strategy regularly. “The technology landscape evolves rapidly, and staying flexible allows you to incorporate market changes and adapt to new technologies,” states Mike. “Key trends that are shaping the future include increased resiliency, carrier-neutral solutions, and the move away from fixed infrastructure. By preparing for these trends, businesses can enhance their operational flexibility, ensure continuity, and maintain a competitive edge.”
Effective IT is integral to the operation of most businesses, as without it, organisations struggle to communicate and collaborate with their customers and employees. ADM Computing, which this year celebrates 40 years of trading (check out our ‘View from the Top’ feature if you haven’t already), has recognised this fundamental need and has evolved significantly since the mid-90s. As Kailas Bryant, commercial director at ADM Computing, notes: “The mid-90s brought about a technological shift, and ADM Computing embraced this change, transitioning from focusing solely on office equipment sales and repairs to encompassing a broader spectrum of IT services.”
Today, the company’s services include cybersecurity, outsourced IT support, IT consultancy, data migrations, disaster recovery and backup solutions and cutting-edge PAXTON door entry and CCTV installations. Staying ahead in IT requires constant innovation and adaptation. To this end, ADM Computing is dedicated to investing in the latest cybersecurity solutions and upskilling its workforce. “This ensures that we remain at the forefront of technological advancements, ready to lead our clients through their own digital transformations.” The advent of AI and tools like Microsoft Copilot are prime examples of cutting-edge developments that ADM Computing is prepared to integrate into its services.
Kailas acknowledges that AI is increasingly influencing the business landscape and highlights the need for SMEs to stay informed about these changes. “Attend the seminars that are run by ADM Computing and other trusted sources,” he urges. “Learn about artificial intelligence. It’s not going away and there will be winners and losers from the introduction of AI. What’s more, do not underestimate the need for effective cybersecurity. The costs to reduce the risks of your business being compromised are significantly less than those associated with recovery from a cybercrime attack on you.”
So, there you have it – the experts have spoken. The key takeaway? IT in business is invaluable. Investing in IT is not just about keeping the lights on; it’s about driving growth, innovation and competitive advantage. Embrace these advanced IT capabilities to stay ahead of industry changes and position your business for long-term success!
