Focus on
laying a solid foundation for your business technology, with a plan and a
budget for ongoing support, maintenance and replacement.  It’s just as important to get the technology
basics right as it is to have a strong financial or marketing plan.  In this article, I share with you a touch on
the ten technology basics that should be in place in your business to get it

running in soid shape.

1. Hardware
& Software – The most obvious technology components.  To reduce problems, ensure that your hardware
isn’t too old and always use legally licensed software. 

2. Power
protection – Often neglected, power protection equipment is an essential
investment for protecting your more expensive technology assets from
power-related damage. 

3. File

sharing – Whether using a shared storage device on your network, a ‘hosted’
solution or your own server, save yourself from the tiring and unproductive
task of emailing documents around your own team.

4. Backups –
Ensure they are functioning, checked daily, tested weekly and stored securely
at another location.  It’s not enough to
‘think’ that they are working and that ‘someone’ is looking after them.

5. Internet

access – Balance your monthly fee budget with a connection that is reliable and
gives you enough speed and data allowance to enable your staff to work
effectively.

6. Domain
name – The cost is negligible to show people you are serious about your
business and you are not just operating with a free email service.  Build your internet presence on this and tap
into a great source of new customers.

7. Security

– Though network ‘firewalls’ and ‘anti-malware’ software security measures are
now considered essential, donÂ’t neglect the physical security of your
computers.  Is your server easy to grab
during a break-in through your front door?

8. Passwords
– Commonly avoided in small business as you trust the people you work with, secure,
complex passwords are needed in your defense against hacking attempts and

physical theft.

9. Plans
& Policies – Technology needs to be managed like any area of your business,
not just taken for granted and acted on in an emergency.  Your plans should include budgeting for
replacing aging hardware, business continuity processes in case of technology
failure, and disaster recovery processes. 
Policies for staff covering acceptable usage and computer security are

also easier implemented before they are needed. 

10. Trusted
I.T. advisor – Develop a relationship with a technology expert who is willing
to learn about your business.  Then
youÂ’ll get the best possible support and solutions that fit your current needs
and future plans. 

Published by Kopertis Wilayah X

Jalan Khatib Sulaiman Padang
Sumatera Barat
Phone: +62751705637
Fax: +62751705637
Email: bibiet@kopertis10.or.id