In the world of e-commerce, big data, and cloud services computing, the driving concern is data privacy compliance. For business owners juggling everyday tasks, understanding and managing data privacy can feel like another mountain to climb. It’s not just a checkbox on a to-do list; it’s a crucial part of running a business that can’t be ignored.

As a managed IT services provider, we get how complex data privacy can be. It’s not just about following the law; it’s about safeguarding your business, building trust with your customers, and possibly gaining an edge in a market where privacy is increasingly important.

Let’s dive into what data privacy compliance means for your business.

Understanding Data Privacy Compliance

Think of your business data as your customer’s personal belongings you hold onto, like their name, address, or what they buy from you. Data privacy compliance is all about protecting these belongings and using them responsibly. It’s like having clear rules on how you handle customer information. These rules can vary depending on location, but they usually share some core principles:

• Transparency and Consent: Be upfront with customers about how you use their information and get their permission first.
• Purpose Limitation: Only collect data you truly need to run your business.
• Data Minimization: Keep the information you collect to the essential minimum.
• Security: Have strong safeguards in place to protect data from unauthorized access or leaks.

Key Data Privacy Regulations Explained

While the idea of data privacy seems simple (protect customer information), the actual rules can be tricky to understand. Many business owners struggle with this.

There are also many different data privacy laws around the world, and they all have different names and requirements. It can feel overwhelming!

Let’s Break Down Some Examples

Here are a few examples of the most common data privacy laws and what they mean for your business:

• California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA): If you do business with people in California, this law gives them certain rights over their information. For example, they can ask you what information you have about them and request that you delete it.
• General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR): This applies to customers in the European Union. It requires you to get their clear permission before using their information and to have strong security measures in place.
• Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA): This is a U.S. law that protects patients’ health information. It sets strict rules on how you can collect, use, and share this type of data.
• Other Laws: There are many other data privacy laws around the world, such as COPPA (protecting children’s privacy online) and PCI DSS (protecting credit card information).

The key takeaway is that data privacy laws vary, but they all generally aim to protect customer information.

Why Data Privacy Matters for Businesses

Following these principles might seem like extra work, but the benefits are substantial:

• Avoid Costly Fines: Breaking data privacy rules can lead to hefty fines.
• Build Customer Trust: Customers appreciate businesses that take care of their information.
• Protect Yourself from Data Breaches: Hackers love stealing data, so good security is vital.
• Stand Out in a Competitive Market: Showcasing your commitment to privacy can give you an edge.
• Attract Investors: Investors are more likely to back businesses that follow the rules.

Leveraging Managed IT Services for Data Privacy Compliance

The more you know about data privacy laws and the resources available, the easier it is to follow the rules. Think of it as having a map and supplies for your journey.

Managed IT services can be a powerful tool to help you navigate the complex world of data privacy regulations. They act like a sword and shield, protecting you and giving you the confidence to move forward.

Here’s How Managed IT Services Help

• They’re the Experts: They understand the ins and outs of data privacy laws and can create a plan that fits your business needs.
• Tech Tools to the Rescue: They use advanced software and tools to make it easier to manage your data and keep it secure.
• Top-Notch Security: They use the latest security measures to protect your data from hackers and other threats. They also keep these systems up-to-date.
• Training Your Team: They can train your employees on how to handle customer information properly.
• Staying Ahead of the Curve: Data privacy laws can change, so they’ll help you stay informed and adjust your plan as needed.

By using managed IT services, you can ensure your data privacy strategy is strong and keeps up with the ever-changing digital landscape.

Everound’s Approach to Data Privacy Compliance and Support

At Everound, we understand the challenges of data privacy and want to help your business succeed in the digital age. We offer services to get you on the right track, from checking your current practices to setting up strong data security measures. We’ll be there every step of the way.

Data privacy isn’t just a fancy term – it’s essential for any business that wants to be successful and trustworthy online. There are many risks involved in handling customer information, but by taking a proactive approach to data privacy, you can protect your business and build trust with your customers.

If you’d like to learn more about how our IT expertise can help you comply with data privacy laws, contact us today!

In today’s fast-paced business world, one term stands out when we talk about technology and efficiency: cloud computing. It’s not just a trendy phrase; it’s a real game-changer, with the power to completely change how businesses work and compete. From saving money to making collaboration easier, these virtual solutions have become essential for everyday tasks.

But what is cloud computing exactly? How does it work, and why is it so important for businesses? Let’s explore the various cloud computing options available. We will also provide useful tips for business owners and entrepreneurs who want to make the most of their technology resources.

The ABCs of Cloud Computing

Cloud computing enables you to tap into a variety of internet-based services, including storage solutions, servers, databases, and much more. This innovation allows for the utilization of advanced capabilities without the hassle of direct management or ownership.

Essentially, it provides on-demand access to computing resources, eliminating the need for costly hardware investments and maintenance. Cloud computing is available in three primary models: Public, Private, and Hybrid.

Each model offers unique advantages tailored to meet specific business requirements. Let’s delve into the key characteristics of these cloud computing types:

Public Cloud Computing

The public cloud model offers shared computing resources to various organizations through the internet. Amazon Web Services (AWS) stands out as a leading provider, catering to individuals, businesses, and governmental entities. This model allows companies to “lease” virtual servers and storage, among other services, with a pay-per-use structure. Startups, for instance, can effortlessly host websites, manage data, and launch applications without the need for personal server infrastructure.

Private Cloud Computing

In contrast, private cloud computing delivers services and infrastructure over a privately maintained network, dedicated solely to one organization. A typical example could be a financial institution that operates its own cloud within data centers, prioritizing stringent security and control over critical financial information. This arrangement supports the execution of proprietary applications and adherence to regulatory standards while limiting access to approved staff only.

Hybrid Cloud Computing

Hybrid cloud computing merges the benefits of both public and private clouds, facilitating smooth data and application interoperability between them. This model is particularly favored by global enterprises aiming to refine their IT frameworks.

By integrating public cloud services from providers like Microsoft Azure or AWS with a private cloud setup, companies can enjoy both scalability and enhanced security. This strategy allows for the public cloud’s use in handling customer-oriented applications and the private cloud for safeguarding internal data, thereby ensuring operational flexibility and regulatory compliance.

By understanding these cloud computing foundations, businesses can make informed decisions on adopting the most suitable cloud model to drive their digital transformation efforts forward.

Benefits of Cloud Computing for Businesses

Implementing cloud computing isn’t just a matter of jumping on the latest tech trend; it’s about enhancing the way a business functions. Here are several reasons why cloud computing is not only beneficial but often critical to success:

Cost Efficiency

For many businesses, managing their IT environment, including servers, software, and other infrastructure, can be expensive. Cloud computing, on the other hand, operates on a subscription or pay-as-you-go model, dramatically reducing initial investment and ongoing maintenance costs. This cost-effective approach allows businesses to reallocate resources to areas of growth, innovation, and customer engagement.

Scalability and Flexibility

Businesses can scale their cloud resources, both up and down, with no planning or service provider engagement. This level of flexibility is unprecedented, particularly for businesses regularly experiencing fluctuating demand. Cloud technology allows for the rapid launch of new services with minimal investment, enabling businesses to stay lean and respond quickly to market changes.

Enhanced Security

The cloud’s centralized approach to data storage means higher levels of security and enhanced disaster recovery. Leading cloud service providers invest significantly in the protection of their infrastructure, which includes advanced security measures, regular security audits, and the implementation of the latest security protocols. The result is more reliable and robust data security than many small businesses could afford on their own.

Improved Collaboration

Cloud computing fosters collaboration by allowing employees to sync up and work on documents and shared apps simultaneously. This capability, coupled with the ability to access data from any approved device, promotes a more collaborative and productive work environment regardless of location, which is particularly beneficial in a post-pandemic work setup. 

Cloud Computing in Action

Real-world cases can often paint a clearer picture of the potential impact of technology. Here are a few instances of businesses leveraging cloud computing to achieve significant growth and efficiency.

Cost Savings for Start-Ups

Cloud computing has changed the way startups operate by offering significant cost savings. Traditionally, startups had to invest substantial capital in purchasing server hardware, acquiring software licenses, and hiring IT support to set up and maintain their infrastructure. However, with the advent of cloud solutions, startups can now access computing resources, storage, and software on a pay-as-you-go basis, drastically reducing upfront costs.

By leveraging cloud services at a fraction of the cost, startups can allocate more of their limited resources toward their core business functions, such as product development, marketing, and customer acquisition. This streamlined approach allows startups to achieve faster growth and scalability, as they can focus on innovating and delivering value to their customers without being burdened by the heavy overhead costs associated with traditional IT infrastructure.

Moreover, cloud computing enables startups to adapt quickly to changing market conditions and customer demands. They can easily scale their resources up or down based on their needs, without the need for significant upfront investments or long-term commitments. This agility and flexibility empower startups to seize opportunities, pivot when necessary, and stay ahead of the competition in dynamic business environments.

As a result of these cost savings and operational efficiencies, many startups have been able to disrupt traditional industries with innovative cloud-based solutions. By leveraging the scalability, reliability, and accessibility of cloud computing, startups can level the playing field and compete with larger, more established companies on a global scale.

Global Expansion for Spikes in Demand

In today’s interconnected world, boutique consumer goods companies often face challenges in meeting spikes in global demand for their products. Traditionally, they would need to invest in additional infrastructure and resources to handle sudden surges in website traffic, orders, and customer inquiries. However, this approach is not only costly but also time-consuming and complex to implement.

Cloud computing offers a scalable solution for handling spikes in global demand without the need for significant upfront investments or infrastructure changes. By leveraging scalable cloud resources, such as virtual servers, storage, and content delivery networks (CDNs), boutique consumer goods companies can quickly ramp up their hosting and computing power to ensure that their website and services remain online and responsive during peak periods.

For example, during holiday seasons or promotional events, a boutique consumer goods company can seamlessly scale its cloud resources to accommodate increased website traffic, process orders efficiently, and deliver a seamless shopping experience to customers worldwide. This agility and scalability enable companies to capitalize on opportunities for increased sales and customer satisfaction, without the risk of downtime or performance issues.

By harnessing the power of cloud computing, boutique consumer goods companies can unlock new opportunities for global expansion and growth. They can reach customers in new markets, expand their product offerings, and enhance their brand presence without being constrained by traditional infrastructure limitations. Ultimately, cloud computing enables these companies to thrive in today’s fast-paced, digital marketplace by providing the flexibility, scalability, and reliability needed to succeed on a global scale. 

Future Trends in Cloud Computing

The world of cloud computing is always moving forward, bringing new opportunities for businesses. Here are some easy-to-understand updates on what’s next in cloud computing:

Edge Computing: Speeding Things Up Close to Home

Imagine your business operations getting faster and more efficient because your data doesn’t have to travel far. That’s what edge computing does—it processes data closer to where it’s being collected (like at your store, office, or on devices your business uses). This is great for businesses with teams working remotely or using lots of connected devices (the Internet of Things, or IoT), as it can make apps run smoother and save on internet costs.

Edge computing works hand-in-hand with cloud computing. While the cloud does the heavy lifting (storing vast amounts of data and handling big computations), edge computing takes care of immediate, local tasks. This duo can lead to better performance and happier customers.

Multi-Cloud: Don’t Put All Your Eggs in One Basket

Using multiple cloud services from different providers can be smart. It lets you pick and choose the best features from each, can be more reliable, and helps avoid getting stuck with just one vendor. Think of it as diversifying your investments but for your tech needs.

However, juggling different cloud services can get tricky, especially when trying to make them work seamlessly together. It’s a bit more to manage but can be worth it for the flexibility and security.

Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning: Smart Clouds Ahead

AI and ML in the cloud are about to take off. These technologies can automate routine tasks like analyzing data or making predictions, freeing you up to focus on bigger decisions. For example, they could help you understand customer behavior better or optimize your operations without you having to dig through the data yourself.

In short, the future of cloud computing is all about making your business faster, smarter, and more flexible. Whether it’s by bringing your data processing closer, using multiple clouds for the best of each, or leveraging AI to do some of the heavy thinking, there’s plenty to look forward to.

Start Your Cloud Journey with Everound

Cloud computing isn’t just about adopting new technology; it’s about adapting to the evolving needs and expectations of the business landscape. The cloud can empower businesses to achieve more with less—less cost, less maintenance, and less hassle. With the right approach and understanding, businesses can harness the full potential of cloud computing to drive growth and success.

Ready to take the leap into cloud computing? With Everound, your trusted managed IT services provider, we can guide you through the process. From consultation to implementation and ongoing support, our experts are here to ensure your cloud transition is smooth and successful. Reach out today to take the first step in improving your business operations with cloud computing services.

Nearly every business relies on technology for their daily operations. From communication and collaboration tools to data storage and security, technology plays a crucial role in the success of a company. With this dependence on technology comes the need for IT support.

When it comes to addressing your IT needs, businesses typically have two primary options: engaging managed IT services or establishing an in-house IT team. Another option is adopting a hybrid model that combines aspects of both. Each alternative comes with its set of advantages, making it crucial to discern the distinctions before arriving at a decision tailored to your business.

Let’s break down the different considerations so you can make an informed decision on what IT management model best suits your business needs.

Understanding Managed IT Services

Managed IT Services, commonly referred to as MSP, is a model where a third-party provider takes on the responsibility of your IT systems and infrastructure management. At Everound, this is how we work with most of our customers. It offers a proactive, rather than reactive, approach to technology support. A managed service provider assumes 24/7 monitoring, management, and problem resolution for businesses, allowing internal staff to focus on strategic, value-adding activities.

MSPs primarily manage IT infrastructure and end-user systems. They take a collaborative approach, offering support to an in-house IT team or operating as the comprehensive IT department.

Suite of Services

MSPs cover a breadth of IT services, such as network monitoring, security solutions, cloud management, data backup and recovery, and help desk services. They offer a diverse array of expertise, often hosting a team experienced in different IT areas.

This allows businesses to access a wide range of support and solutions without having to hire multiple specialists.

Key Benefits of an MSP

There are many benefits of working with a managed IT services provider. Some are related to cost and others are related to expertise. The key benefits to a business working with an MSP are:

• Cost Predictability: With a flat-rate monthly fee, MSPs can often provide more predictable spending than managing it in-house. This can be especially beneficial for small businesses on a tight budget.
• 24/7 Support: MSPs are there when you need them, ready to address any IT issue at any time. This means that businesses can have peace of mind knowing that their critical systems are being monitored and supported around the clock.
• Access to Expertise: By partnering with MSPs, you tap into a specialized pool of IT professionals. They have the knowledge and experience to handle a wide range of technical issues, from software updates to cybersecurity threats. This can save businesses time and money by avoiding the need to hire and train in-house IT staff.
• Scalability: Adjust your services as your business grows or IT needs change, without the HR headache. MSPs offer flexible services and pricing options, allowing businesses to scale up or down as needed without the costs and hassle of recruiting new employees.
• Proactive Maintenance: MSPs use advanced monitoring tools and processes to identify potential issues before they become major problems. This proactive approach helps prevent downtime, data loss, and other costly disruptions that can severely impact small businesses.
• Cost Savings: Outsourcing IT services to an MSP can be more cost-effective than managing an in-house IT team. Businesses can save on recruitment and training costs, as well as on expensive hardware and software purchases. With a fixed monthly fee for managed services, businesses also have predictable IT expenses, making budgeting easier.
• Strategic Focus: By offloading the day-to-day management of IT tasks to an MSP, businesses can free up valuable time and resources to focus on core business objectives. This allows for a more strategic approach to IT planning and decision-making, leading to better overall business outcomes.

The In-House IT Proposition

Having an in-house IT team means having a dedicated group of professionals solely focused on your business needs. They offer a level of intimacy with your business operations and functions, as they are on-site every day. Gathering an in-house IT team involves recruitment, where businesses can search for talent aligned with their specific needs. It also necessitates an ongoing commitment to professional development.

In-House Advantages

For some businesses, an in-house IT team makes sense. This is often the case with large, national corporations. Some advantages of an in-house IT team are:

• Culture Fit: Your in-house team can be deeply integrated into your business culture and objectives. This can lead to better alignment and understanding of the business goals, resulting in more effective solutions.
• Control: With an in-house team, you have complete control over the direction and management of your IT projects. You can make decisions quickly and implement changes as needed without needing to go through a third-party provider.
• Immediate Availability: With staff on-site, you have instant IT support ready to resolve issues. This may minimize downtime in some cases and keep business operations running smoothly.

Considerations When Choosing Your IT Model

Opting between an MSP model and an in-house IT is an important decision for a business owner. There are several things to consider including cost, scalability, expertise and skill sets, and flexibility and adaptability.

Cost and ROI Comparison

The decision between in-house IT and MSP hinges significantly on the delicate balance between costs and benefits. Conducting a thorough examination of the return on investment is imperative to grasp the economic trade-offs inherent in both models.

Opting for an in-house IT department involves substantial initial expenditures, encompassing the recruitment of specialized staff and the acquisition of equipment and software. Further ongoing costs may include training, maintenance, and upgrades. In contrast, MSPs typically levy a flat monthly fee for their services, presenting a potentially more cost-effective solution in the short term.

The advantages offered by MSPs extend beyond mere cost considerations. They provide intangible benefits like heightened security and minimal downtime, complemented by tangible cost savings. For instance, MSPs can furnish a team of highly skilled professionals at a fraction of the cost associated with hiring full-time employees. Moreover, their specialization in IT services affords them access to cutting-edge technology, translating into greater expertise and efficiency.

On the other side of the spectrum, in-house departments boast strengths in team familiarity with your operation, potentially yielding long-term financial gains through staff retention and accumulated knowledge capital.

In the crucial decision-making process between an MSP and an in-house IT department, the aspect of long-term ROI must not be overlooked. MSPs offer a degree of predictability in costs and service scalability, contributing to long-term planning security. In contrast, the long-term ROI with an in-house team may fluctuate more, contingent on organizational growth and the associated costs of staff development or replacement.

Scalability

Scalability is a pivotal factor in achieving business success, and your IT management model should accommodate it. Managed Service Providers excel in this regard by offering on-demand services that dynamically scale in alignment with your business’s evolving needs without requiring lead time.

Conversely, the process of expanding an in-house team or scaling up IT infrastructure can be both time-consuming and financially burdensome. By opting for an MSP, your business gains the invaluable advantage of promptly adding or removing services in response to growth or changes. This not only enhances adaptability but also fosters a more agile and responsive approach to IT management, aligning your technological resources with the dynamic needs of your business.

Expertise and Timeliness

MSPs swiftly implement solutions and updates via their specialized teams. They have the expertise and resources to stay up-to-date with the constantly evolving IT landscape, ensuring your business is always using the most efficient and effective tools. Additionally, MSPs provide timely support and troubleshooting for any technical issues, minimizing downtime and preventing potential disruptions to your operations.

In-house teams may be more attuned to the immediate needs of your business and can potentially offer more customized services. However, they may not have the same level of expertise or resources as an MSP, leading to longer response times and potential delays in implementing solutions.

Flexibility and Adaptability

Every business situation is unique, and the chosen IT management model must flex to accommodate this. Adapting to emerging technologies and sudden market shifts is equally an assessment of IT strategy as it is of the IT personnel.

Managed IT services providers have the edge in readiness. MSPs by design are attuned to IT developments and are quicker to adopt change and can help strategize and implement long-term technology plans with efficiency.

Internal IT departments need to actively manage their readiness for technological shifts. They must be aware of emerging technologies and trends, and have the resources to quickly implement them.

The Hybrid Approach

For many small businesses, a blend of managed and internal IT services may offer the best of both worlds. It requires a strategic and thoughtful fusion to ensure a cohesive and effective IT operation. By partnering with a managed service provider, businesses can tap into their expertise and resources while still maintaining some level of control over their IT operations. This hybrid approach allows for flexibility and agility in adopting new technologies while also keeping costs in check.

One major benefit of the hybrid approach is the ability to leverage the strengths of both internal and external IT teams. Internal IT departments can focus on day-to-day operations and managing more critical systems, while the managed service provider takes on tasks such as network security, data backup, and disaster recovery planning. This division of labor helps to reduce stress on internal teams while allowing them to prioritize projects that align with business goals.

Another advantage of this blended model is cost savings. Managed service providers typically offer customizable plans that allow businesses to only pay for the services they need, rather than investing in expensive equipment and software that may not be fully utilized. This also eliminates the need for constant upgrades and maintenance costs, further reducing IT expenses.

In addition to potential cost savings, hybrid IT also provides scalability. As businesses grow and their technology needs change, they have the flexibility to adjust their service plans accordingly. This means that companies can easily scale up or down as needed without being locked into long-term contracts or purchasing unnecessary hardware.

Moreover, a hybrid approach allows for greater agility when it comes to adopting new technologies. With an internal IT team focused on day-to-day operations, a managed service provider can stay up-to-date on emerging technologies and help businesses integrate them seamlessly into their existing systems.

Everound: Your Technology Partner

The debate between Managed IT Services and in-house IT is more than an operational consideration; it’s a strategic business decision. Whether prioritizing cost-effectiveness, customization, or scalability, your choice in an IT management model will shape the trajectory of your business’s technological capabilities.

Still unsure which model is the right fit? Assess your business needs and align them with the advantages offered by each model. The best decision is an informed one — ensuring that your IT investment yields the maximum ROI and propels your business to the next level.

As you navigate the labyrinth of IT management models, consider the path with Everound, a leading managed IT service provider. We offer services tailored to your specific needs, ensuring cost-effective, secure, and optimized IT systems. Our team can provide comprehensive managed IT services or integrate seamlessly into a hybrid model, enhancing your in-house expertise with our external insights.

Let’s start the conversation so we can learn how to best support your business.

Significance of Tech Resolutions

As a business owner, you understand that staying competitive and relevant requires keeping up with technological advancements. Adapting to evolving tech trends not only enhances efficiency but also fortifies your business against unforeseen challenges. One way to stay on top of the latest technology tools and advancements is to set tech resolutions for the year.

As a leading managed IT services company, here are our top recommendations for tech resolutions in 2024. These resolutions focus on improving your business’s IT strategy by optimizing infrastructure, strengthening cybersecurity, embracing innovation, and simplifying workflows.

Optimizing IT Infrastructure

Transition to Cloud-Based Solutions

Cloud computing is a game-changer for businesses, offering scalability, flexibility, and cost-efficiency. Migrating to the cloud enables seamless accessibility, enhancing collaboration and remote work capabilities. With the cloud, you can scale resources easily, adapt quickly to changing needs, save costs, and work from anywhere.

Implement Virtualization Technologies

Virtualization is like a superpower for businesses. By enabling multiple operating systems and applications to run on a single physical server, virtualization allows for better utilization of hardware resources. It means getting more out of your existing infrastructure without needing additional physical servers.

With virtualization, you can reduce costs and improve efficiency by consolidating your hardware. It also makes data management easier and enhances disaster recovery capabilities.

Regular Infrastructure Audits and Updates

Regularly performing audits of your IT infrastructure helps maintain optimal performance and security. These audits allow you to identify inefficiencies, vulnerabilities, and areas that require improvement within your systems.

By conducting routine audits, you can gain valuable insights into how your IT infrastructure operates. You’ll be able to pinpoint any bottlenecks or areas where processes can be streamlined, ultimately improving overall efficiency.

Audits also help you identify potential vulnerabilities in your systems, such as outdated software or weak authentication protocols, allowing you to take proactive measures to mitigate risks.

Strengthening Cybersecurity

Implement MFA

Enforcing Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) goes beyond traditional passwords, adding an extra layer of security. It mandates users to provide multiple forms of identification before accessing sensitive systems or data.

Think of MFA as having a lock on your front door that requires multiple keys to open. With MFA, simply entering a password is not enough to gain access. You must give more proof, such as a fingerprint scan or a special code from an app, to enter.

By implementing MFA, you significantly reduce the risk of unauthorized access to your sensitive information.

Regular Employee Training and Awareness Programs

Did you know that human error is one of the main reasons behind cybersecurity breaches? According to various studies, it accounts for a staggering 82% to 95% of all incidents. In other words, mistakes made by people can lead to costly and damaging breaches of sensitive information.

But why does human error play such a significant role? Well, think about it in everyday terms. We’re all prone to making mistakes, whether it’s accidentally clicking on a malicious link or using weak passwords. Cybercriminals take advantage of these slip-ups and exploit them to gain unauthorized access to systems and data.

Regular cybersecurity training reduces the chance of human error-causing breaches. Organizations can create a watchful workforce against cyber attacks by teaching employees about current threats. They can also show them how to recognize phishing emails and stress the importance of strong passwords.

Implement Robust Endpoint Security Solutions

Securing endpoints like laptops, desktops, and mobile devices is crucial for safeguarding your network. Think of your network as a castle and endpoints as vulnerable entry points needing strong protection. Endpoint security acts like a shield, stopping cyber intruders from accessing your data.

Using tools such as encryption, firewalls, and antivirus software, endpoint security creates robust barriers against unauthorized access. It’s similar to locking doors and windows at home for added security in our digital lives.

Moreover, endpoint security doesn’t just defend; it actively watches for suspicious activity or malware. This proactive approach helps catch and stop potential attacks before they do harm.

Leveraging Innovation

Embrace Emerging Technologies

Staying ahead in the business world means embracing cutting-edge technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML), and the Internet of Things (IoT). These innovations have the power to revolutionize how businesses operate and enhance customer experiences.

AI streamlines tasks by automating repetitive processes and enables data-driven decision-making. For instance, AI-powered chatbots offer immediate customer support, freeing up human resources for more complex tasks.

ML focuses on teaching machines to learn from data, revealing patterns and insights for improved decision-making and personalized recommendations.

IoT involves interconnected devices sharing data, allowing real-time monitoring, workflow automation, and efficient management of resources. For instance, IoT-enabled devices track inventory and optimize supply chains.

Adopting these technologies unlocks immense potential, transforming operations, empowering better decisions, gaining a competitive edge, and delivering outstanding customer experiences. Embracing these innovations is pivotal for success in today’s business environment.

Everound: Your Technology Partner in 2024

Are you ready to set and achieve your technological resolutions this year? Partner with Everound to take proactive steps toward achieving your tech resolutions for the year ahead. As a leading managed IT services provider, we provide comprehensive support and innovative solutions, ensuring businesses thrive amidst technological transformations.

Make 2024 the year of technological advancement for your business! Embrace change, fortify your IT strategies, and stride confidently into 2024 with Everound as your trusted technology partner. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you achieve your goals. Let us focus on your IT so you can focus on your business.

As a business owner, you likely understand the power of making your budget work as hard as possible and spend money wisely on business operations. This time of year, you may be working on next year’s budget and wondering if there are areas of opportunity to show cost savings. One area where you can reduce costs is your information technology expenses.

Outsourcing IT business functions to a managed services provider (MSP) allows you to cut costs, save time, and even produce the same or a better outcome at a lower cost. There are also indirect benefits to outsourcing your IT including consistency in service. For example, when you use an outsourcing company, there are no sick days or PTO days to worry about – in fact, your managed service provider is always on call for you!

How does outsourcing IT save costs over relying on an in-house team? Let’s take a look at the ways outsourcing IT can alleviate budget constraints while also helping your business realize IT operational efficiency.

Reduced Salary Expenses

Let’s face it – payroll and related costs are the biggest expense for a business. On average, a company spends more than $4,000 to hire and train a new employee. In addition, recruitment and retention costs can add even more expenses to a company’s bottom line.

When you rely on an IT outsourcing company for technical support, cloud services, disaster recovery, and other IT services, you not only save money on these expenses, but you also save money on annual salaries and additional overhead costs including:

• Medical, dental, and other healthcare benefits
• Retirement costs such as 401k contributions
• Quarterly or annual bonuses
• Hard costs such as office space and furniture, computers, cell phones, and miscellaneous resources

When you work with a managed IT services provider, these costs fall on the MSP’s shoulders and not on your business. Curious if outsourcing is for you? We can help you determine if working with an MSP makes sense for your budget.

No Training Costs

Information technology changes rapidly, especially when it comes to IT concerns like cybersecurity and remote monitoring and management. In-house employees need to be on top of the latest technology developments and risks which can only be achieved by ongoing training and education. This can come with a massive price tag for a business owner.

When you work with a managed services provider, training is included, and you have access to highly trained experts without the costs. Most MSPs spend their own time and money on training for their team members meaning you can put those costs back into your business.

Another ancillary training benefit is for your own employees. As part of some support packages, MSPs offer cybersecurity training, software training, and other IT-related educational services. At Everound, we can work with your company to develop training programs that allow your employees to maximize the power of technology at your business.

Easy Scalability

Another way outsourcing your IT can save your company money is the ability to scale up – or down – quickly and easily. If you have a seasonal business and need more IT help in the summer months, for example, your IT services package can scale down in the winter. When you have an in-house IT team, you are responsible for their salaries and expenses year-round, no matter your current IT needs.

Cash flow down? With an MSP, you can scale back services for the short term to help increase your bottom line. Similarly, if you run a small business, you may not need 40 hours per week of technical support. The good news is your MSP can work with you to scale up or down based on your current financial situation.

Why Choose Everound for your Managed IT Services?

At Everound, we work with our customers to develop an ongoing managed IT services relationship that helps their bottom line. We can create a customized package that meets your IT needs AND reduces your overall information technology costs.

We won’t charge you for every help desk ticket, phone call, or meeting. Our customer service is part of the package, and you can consider us an extension of your team. Our MSP service offerings include help desk, network and server administration, network monitoring, equipment installation and configuration, backup and disaster recovery, and even after-hours support. Working on your budget and considering outsourcing your IT functions? Let’s chat.