RSS feedsImagine the scenario: a medium-sized organisation knows it needs to invest in IT, but the current system is disparate, disjointed and inflexible and will not be able to support future growth objectives. There’s a choice of IT partners available, each offering various levels of advice and support to update the infrastructure. How do you know who will provide the best value for money and, more importantly, make the project a success?
IT is a complex, yet necessary, part of business today. The acronym alone is capable of producing deep-seated emotions from many business owners and managers. The number one problem we find among SMEs is that clients know they need to invest in IT and need help to do it but they are reluctant to spend money on consultancy and services that provide no tangible return on investment.
There is no quick fix or simple answer when it comes to technology. Every business is different and has specific requirements, but what is common to the mid market is the need for flexibility. We are frequently asked: what happens in two years’ time when the company wants to move location, employ new staff and/or increase the number of remote workers? Will the IT infrastructure that broke the budget two years ago be able to support this expansion and change without bankrupting the business?
Security breach
In reality, a future-proof IT infrastructure is very subjective and dependent on goals and expectations. There is one issue, however, that cannot be overlooked when dealing with a company’s IT infrastructure. Whether it’s a malicious attack on a website, an internal virus that deletes content from a database or spyware intercepting personal information, downtime can have an immediate impact on the profit and loss sheet.
The right level of security can save a company’s reputation, customers and profits from finding alternative places to reside. According to BERR Information Security Breaches Survey 2006, viruses were the most common form of security breach experienced by UK businesses. Spyware, malware and malicious attacks need to be managed and contained on a daily basis.
However, security awareness in business is high probably thanks in no small part to the increasing number of spam emails slipping through the filters. Identity and data theft has never been more prolific and businesses of all sizes are coming under increasing pressure to comply with security rules and regulations. Forward-thinking companies are realising the value of having security built into their IT infrastructure, and are also beginning to view security as an essential investment for the future.
The right supplier
If all the resources and technical expertise are available in-house to create and manage an IT infrastructure successfully, then all that is needed is the right supplier relationship to provide hardware and software at a competitive price. If, however, the in-house IT is under-resourced and does not have all the necessary technical expertise and experience, then more help and support is required from a partner who can advise on the best IT strategy to match the business objectives.
One of the biggest IT gripes companies have is that potential suppliers do not fully understand their business and are simply there to sell whatever product or system is currently on offer. Companies do not always know what they need to fully brief the IT provider and so assumptions are made and the project will inevitably fail to meet expectations.
Thinking about the bigger picture is key. This is where proper planning comes into play. When researching potential IT suppliers, it is invaluable to find one that will spend the time to understand the business and what is required from the IT infrastructure. IT is a significant cost for medium-sized organisations, but those that get it right it, can run their business how they want and remain agile.
Project basics
• Choose the right partner
Every organisation wants a future-proofed system. Think about the full lifecycle
of the IT infrastructure and find the partner who will support business growth
and sustainability.
• Plan, plan, plan
Getting the consultancy right from the start will save time, effort and money in
the long run.
• Project manage
Build into the plan from day one how the IT project will be managed on a
day-to-day level.
• Be realistic
Don't expect an IT project to happen overnight. Make sure deadlines are
achievable and set expectations early on.
• Communicate progress
Involve staff from the beginning to make sure change is embraced. One of the
most common reasons for IT project failure is user adoption.
Alastair Kitching is director at IT infrastructure specialist Esteem Systems
For more information go to www.esteem.co.uk
