When was the last time you invested in new technology? When it comes to upgrading, there are two camps: those who are constantly on the lookout for new technology with which to innovate, and those who believe in the adage “if it ain’t broke, don’t repair it.”
However, your IT will certainly become obsolete at some time in the future. Systems deteriorate with time. Processes become inefficient as a result of this. Hardware breaks down. You could just outgrow your out-of-date software and hardware as time goes on.
However, investing in new technology may be highly costly and is often considered as a low-priority indulgence. If you can get by as is, parting with your hard-earned money could be the last thing on your mind. So, how can you know whether you need to modernise your technology?
There are five indicators that it’s time to improve your technology
IT should be something that helps you, not hinders you. When your technology becomes something you have to work around, it’s time to consider if it’s still suitable for purpose. Let’s take a look at some of the signals that it’s time to retire the old.
1. The quality of work is deteriorating
It’s normal for hardware to slow down as it becomes older. Performance degrades when additional software is installed or updated. This tendency is notably obvious among the 24% of businesses that keep their gear for seven years or more, long after warranty terms have expired.
What to keep an eye out for: Laptops, PCs, and mobile phones are all slowing down. Applications crashing, browsers becoming slow, or page loading times increasing.
2. The expense of doing business is increasing
This may seem counterintuitive, but reducing your use of old equipment, which requires more resources to maintain, is one of the greatest methods to lower your continuing IT running expenses.
What to keep an eye out for: A growing number of times, IT assistance is required. Failing technology not only affects employee productivity, but it also loses you money in terms of downtime.
3. Employee dissatisfaction is high
IT issues are inconvenient to deal with. If something isn’t actively assisting your staff in doing their jobs, it is causing them to be less productive. A mismatch between the technology your workers want to use and what they have to use at work is a symptom that your IT is out of date.
What to keep an eye out for: The obvious one is when employees express their dissatisfaction with technology. Even if they aren’t, there are several telltale signs to look out for. Keep an eye out for workers who are working around business procedures or using shortcuts to do their tasks.
4. Your IT department is struggling to keep up with shifting needs
The way your workers operate is influenced by the technologies you use. Your technology may be hindering your company’s development if it prevents you from reacting quickly to new possibilities, needs, or requests.
What to be aware of: If circumstances outside your control change (for example, requiring your team to work remotely in the event of a pandemic), you may not have the infrastructure in place to accommodate the shift.
5. A high risk of security risks
Keeping up with your cybersecurity is perhaps the most urgent reason to invest in new IT systems for your company. Running outdated systems exposes you to more security concerns.
When hardware, firmware, or operating systems are no longer maintained, outdated equipment (anything older than seven years) is more susceptible to attack.
What to keep an eye out for: Upgrades to your software are no longer supported by your hardware. For example, older computers are unlikely to support newer operating systems, leaving you vulnerable to the most recent security risks. This is especially crucial to avoid if you work with sensitive client information. Your IT systems are easy prey for fraudsters aiming to steal client information if you don’t keep up with security upgrades.
Where do you begin when it’s time to enhance your technology?
If you’re still unsure whether or not you need to update, consider the following:
- Do your employees feel hampered by the technology they use?
- Are the makers of your mission-critical systems still supporting them?
- Are you able to update your programme with the most recent security patches?
- Is the technology you’re employing industry-standard?
- What technologies do your rivals and market leaders employ?
If the answers to these questions suggest that your technology is a barrier rather than a benefit, continuing to spend on maintaining your current systems is a waste of money.
So, when is it appropriate to invest in new technology?
Probably yesterday. Investing in new technology, on the other hand, is not a quick process. Examine the most recent market trends and thoroughly examine the demands of both your company and your clients. What are your consumers and staff requesting?
IT updates may be quite beneficial to your company, but they are not inexpensive. Plan ahead of time so you can spend your money wisely and get the most out of your hard-earned money.
About EC-MSP, your IT support partner
EC-MSP are one of the most trusted IT support providers in London. If you would like more help advice and support with technology for your business, contact us today to see how we can help.
