Fortunately, information technology (IT) had already advanced to a level that made it possible for us to stay connected and productive even when we couldn’t connect and work in person or on-site. Over the past year, business owners and employees have leaned heavily on IT in ways they hadn’t before, and in many ways, has changed how we work. Some of these changes will remain permanent and others will continue to evolve. These are the most important IT support trends business owners are following to navigate the rest of 2021.
Incorporating the Internet of Things (IoT) with Existing Systems
What is the IoT? It’s directly integrating and interconnecting computer systems and IT devices to transfer data through the internet. The IoT makes it possible for you to control all connected computers and mobile systems from one spot. As you can imagine, the pandemic accelerated the need for and use of the IoT.
Talk to your IT support firm about how you can incorporate IoT in your current systems to give your business advantages, such as:
- Easy access to information
- Finish numerous tasks faster
- Improved efficiency
- Better time management
Using Automation Technology to Your Advantage
2021 is the year to increase your use of automation technology, making it a top IT support trend. Automation technology lets you put certain tasks on autopilot. Your IT support company can evaluate your business functions and offer suggestions where automation technology is possible and makes sense.
Automating some of your business functions has several advantages, ranging from helping to reduce human error to increasing the speed at which tasks are completed. Both of which increase overall productivity and reduce stress.
Storing and Accessing Data via Cloud Computing
Cloud computing isn’t new. However, with so many working remotely, its popularity is soaring. Employees can store all information, no matter where they’re working, on a cloud-based system.
Our IT support clients are investing heavily in cloud computing for 4 main reasons:
- To give employees a central location for storing data
- To give employees a way to retrieve data from anywhere
- To help prevent critical data from getting lost in the shuffle that happens when it’s shared via other ways, like email
- To eliminate data storage issues once and for all
Along with moving to the cloud comes a serious need for cybersecurity. Your IT support firm should consider the type of information you store and access, as well as any industry regulations that apply to your business, to create and install a cybersecurity system.
LEARN MORE: The Benefits of Installing a Computer Network for Your Business
Improving Cybersecurity
One of the major obstacles of cloud computing, IoT, and automation technology is keeping the connection and data secure from breaches and attacks. Cybersecurity is a matter of keeping your solutions up to date, which helps stay ahead of hackers who are constantly creating new ways to get around cybersecurity systems.
This is why many companies are investing in top-notch IT support to help protect their systems and data from attacks.
LEARN MORE: How an IT Security Assessment Reduces Threats to Your Business
Using Mobile Applications
We’re conducting so much business on the go. Employees can work using their mobile devices while sitting in an orthodontist’s waiting room or idling in the school pick-up line. In other words, we’re not tethered to office desks and computers, which has increased productivity.
As a result, business owners are relying on IT support firms to ensure their employees have solutions and suites that work smoothly across mobile devices. Most software solutions with mobile applications take advantage of cloud computing and can be protected with user caution and your existing cybersecurity system.
2020, and especially the pandemic, shaped how and when businesses are adopting IT trends like automation technology, cloud computing, mobile apps, and the internet of things (IoT). Chances are you’ve already adapted to an extent your digital technologies to meet the demands of 2021’s remote workforce. To ensure you’re using tech trends to your company’s and employees’ ultimate advantage, consult with an IT support firm willing to learn your business and needs. Invision is capable of developing the best solutions to your challenges.
