How to reduce your IT costs
20th January 2020
IT is the backbone on which our businesses are built these days, so it's essential to find savings wherever you can. A considered approach is required, however, to effectively meet your business' needs while still saving money. There are, fortunately, some ways that you can achieve this.
Take stock of your setup
Before you begin, you need to have a clear understanding of what your current setup consists of. Make as detailed a map as possible of your IT processes, showing data and workflows, so you can have a clear basis on which to build your improvements. This includes the hosted desktop solution you employ, if any, your cloud servers, as well as your internal data processing systems. The next step is to review your contracts - speak to your hosted desktop provider, the company providing your managed cloud solutions, your internet provider, and any ongoing software licences you pay for. There are always savings to be made for diligent customers.
Embrace new technology
Technology is always developing, and as it does so it becomes more affordable and more efficient. If your business isn't making use of the cloud, for example, it's time to strongly consider it. The same is true of a hosted desktop service, which can affordably improve the efficiency with which you work. Be forward-thinking, and prepare to embrace new technologies that work for you. Investing in more energy-efficient hardware that can provide faster processing and more reliable operation is also a wise consideration - it will save you money in the long run. A variety of financing options available on most equipment make them accessible even for smaller businesses.
Operational improvements
Your approach to costings has to align with your business strategy - make sure you're still able to comfortably provide the service your customers expect. The best way to save money is to do so in a way that allows your business to continue comfortably operating. To help with this, and as a part of your money-saving drive, work closely with your finance department or your financial advisors. Develop a list of clear goals with them, and set out the ways in which you can practically achieve them, involving your IT staff in the process. Garner feedback wherever possible. If you have employees using your IT system all day every day they will have been able to see where the shortfalls are, and where improvements can be made. Involving them in the process will also ensure that you don't make their job any harder than it needs to be in your drive to save money. Seek feedback, but make sure you're prepared to listen objectively. When changes are made, you have to be willing to continuously monitor them going forward - this allows you to see the changes which are having the most effect and adjust your attention accordingly.
For more help and advice
For any more help and advice on saving your business money on IT, particularly through the use of a hosted desktop, contact Host My Office today on 03333 110 020.
