IT Consultancy for Start Ups in London
Modern businesses are becoming increasingly reliant on their information technology (IT) for just about everything they do. Whether for internal and external communications, creating reports, managing finances, providing technical support to customers, or connecting to the internet, businesses need IT for a range of different functions. You don’t need to be an expert in IT or even have one on your team to run a startup. However, you do need to understand some of the basics.
IT Essentials
The exact IT requirements of a business will vary depending on the precise nature of their work. However, there are certain essentials that all businesses should be aware of and should try to implement.
Computers have been in the workplace for a couple of decades now. They make it much easier to manage the day to day activities of the business, as well as allowing employees to be far more productive than they otherwise would be. Most offices still use Windows-based PCs, although OSX and even Android are both also becoming more commonplace. Windows still offers the widest selection of software and is the best choice for most businesses.
Whereas offices used to rely on their on-site computers to serve the needs of the business, it is now common for all employees to have their own devices. These personal devices usually take the form of laptops, tablets, and smartphones. Giving each employee their own device allows them to be productive outside the office and ensures that they always have the equipment they need.
Security
It is impossible to overstate the importance of cybersecurity on your corporate network. Businesses are facing a growing range of cybersecurity threats, with startups just as susceptible as larger corporations. The potential damage, both in terms of a business’s finances and their reputation, are enormous and should not be underestimated.
Of course, you should have antivirus software on your network, but this isn’t enough. As soon as your financial situation allows for it, you should be looking to outsource your network security. Ultimately, having a dedicated cybersecurity team on-site will keep you as safe as possible.
Head in The Clouds
Cloud computing is perhaps the most important area of computing in today’s world. By moving your corporate network into the cloud, you can allow your employees to access it from home. This means that they can access any files or software located on your network, greatly expanding the potential for working outside of the office. Moving into the cloud is a smart play for the majority of startups, benefiting both employees and businesses.
In addition to moving your own network into the cloud, you should also investigate what kind of cloud software is available that would be useful to your business. In many cases, rather than paying a large price tag to own or license a piece of software, you can instead pay a much more reasonable monthly fee to access that software in the cloud.
Another advantage for startups of using cloud-based software is that they include technical support. This extends beyond the usual helplines and contact forms that are included with most enterprise software, with the service provider handling updates, such as applying security patches, as well as providing you with live support when you need it.
Keeping IT Costs Down
Businesses can save money on their IT costs by instituting a bring your own device (BYOD) policy, meaning that workers can provide and use their personal devices for work purposes. Another way of saving a lot of money on your IT costs is by outsourcing. A growing number of IT startups in London have been outsourcing their IT services, reaping benefits from doing so:
Outsourcing provides a business access to hardware that would otherwise be prohibitively expensive.
By outsourcing, businesses can gain access to skills and knowledge that would cost a lot of money to bring in-house.
Providing customers with technical support throughout the day is difficult for a startup. Outsourcing tech support frees up your workers to focus on their duties without compromising the level of support available to your customers.
Selecting the Right IT Partner
When selecting an IT partner, you should take your time and not jump on the first business you come across. You need to find a business who can satisfy all of your IT needs and will provide you with a reliable service. NECL provides IT services to businesses from a range of different industries. We understand what it takes to make a reliable and effective IT partner.
No matter what industry your startup operates in, you will find yourself relying on IT. Money is always tight where startups are concerned, and you will need to prioritise your spending appropriately. Your primary concern should be ensuring the security of your network. Once you have a secure network, you can add on as many features and capabilities as you think your business needs.
