Preventing IT Disasters: What Not To Do

It can be really easy to get carried away with the forward-facing elements of business and forget about the processes that run in the background – namely, the technical aspect. Computers, portable devices and cloud software are essential features of any company and need careful attention to prevent costly breakdowns in IT.

It is important for businesses to consider the major – and sometimes irreversible – implications of an IT system failure. Here is a guide to help you avoid the common pitfalls that affect companies big and small.

Don’t allow untrained employees to install software

This potential issue could be easily handled by creating a secondary user account on each machine and restricting the permission to modify or install new applications. Make sure employees understand the implications of a system malfunction and encourage them to assume responsibility for their devices. This would make them less likely to perform any damaging actions.

Outsourcing your IT support could be the best way of ensuring the proper functioning of your IT systems. Allowing experts to look after the tech side of your company will give you more space and time to focus on other aspects of your business. Specialist companies can supervise the entire tech activity going on within your premises and recommend the best services in terms of software, hardware and cloud computing.

Discuss with your provider and establish a date for a thorough system check. Their technicians are the right people to install new software, run tests and update certain programs.

Don’t let routine maintenance get away from you

The simple fact that your IT systems are running perfectly should be enough to ask yourself, “How will a system breakdown affect my business?” Make sure you are always prepared for the worst.

The security of your computers and other devices used in house should always come under close inspection. Choosing a powerful and reliable antivirus software is not always enough. Making a habit of running manual scans and avoiding suspicious websites is a good idea. In addition, there is the matter of sensitive information such as financial transactions and passwords.

Using a secure browser is compulsory, but remember the data that could be accessed on smartphones and tablets. Safeguard your privacy by adopting a method of erasing the information on portable devices in case you lose them.

Testing the system’s performance, and deleting redundant programs are good habits to follow The key is in the title; a well maintained solid routine. Once these procedures are implemented across the company, your employees will also further value the importance of taking good care of the office’s IT facilities.

Never assume procedures are being followed

Supervising the activity of all your employees can be difficult, if not impossible most of the time and mistakes are bound to happen. However, there are a few ways to make sure errors are kept to a minimum.

First and foremost, remember the rule of the six P’s: Preparation and Planning PreventPoor Performances. Expect computer failures but prepare your employees, establish security procedures for these situations and offer regular coaching sessions. Provide each new employee with the appropriate training required to master the company’s software to improve their work rate right from the start.

Remember to organise regular IT workshops and/or webinars for the whole team, as a reminder of the correct practice expected of them. Your IT support client may even include staff training in the service level agreement so you don’t even have to spend extra money.

by http://www.syntax.co.uk/