Budgeting looks a lot different this year in the midst of a global pandemic. Business objectives have undoubtedly changed over the past year and innovation is more important than ever to address these changes and recover from the effects of COVID-19. Making the case for flexible, secure and cost-effective technology platforms will be vital going into the next quarter and beyond.
Flexibility
Remote work was forced upon many companies this year, and if virtual work options were not already part of the company’s technology strategy, it caused a lot of time, money and frustration to implement quickly. Being flexible became the name of the game, and the need to be agile is here to stay. In the coming year, businesses will want to build their technology strategy with a focus on flexibility, so as business goals or environmental factors evolve, they can easily adjust using technology. Going forward, three flexible strategies to consider are:
- Upgrading your company’s phone system to better communicate with staff and customers from anywhere using Microsoft Teams Calling Plans
- Remotely setting up computers for new hires using Microsoft Intune and Autopilot
- Using the new Microsoft Teams features for collaborating with colleagues and clients
Along with having a flexible IT strategy, keeping it secure should also be top-of-mind.
Security
Continuing to maintain and build a robust cybersecurity strategy is another vital focus moving forward. Cybercriminals are getting more and more sophisticated, and breaches are getting larger and more costly. Now is the time to review your cybersecurity architecture and develop a road map going into the new year that includes:
- Governance, Risk and Compliance Measures
- Vulnerability Management
- Information Protection and Privacy
- Cybersecurity Training and Testing
Even with the best cybersecurity safeguards in place including backups, firewalls and software patches, it takes one click by an unknowing employee to cost your business a lot of time, money and important data. Employee cybersecurity training can equip everyone in the company with the tools and knowledge needed to do their part in avoiding a data breach.
Flexibility and security are important pieces of every technology strategy for 2021 but coming out of a pandemic, companies also need to be mindful of budgets.
Cost-Effectiveness
With cost-cutting being a reality amidst a global pandemic, business owners and CIOs need to decide which parts of their IT strategy need to be done in-house, and where they can find cost efficiencies by outsourcing.
Anders Technology specializes in bridging the gap in technology needs, from co-managing alongside internal IT staff to supplement expertise, to being the entire IT team, we can step in as much or as little as needed. Below is an example of ways we partner with our clients.
Anders Technology can help be flexible by taking on more when needed and pivoting the strategy with supplemental resources. With a team of advisors with in-depth knowledge in several areas, we can help you develop a technology strategy that helps you meet business goals while staying secure and cost-conscious. Learn more about Anders Technology or contact an Anders advisor below to get started.
