Have you ever developed a strategy with your management team, only to realize that your IT configuration is inadequate to implement your innovative ideas? It’s time to act. Progressive companies have made strategic changes to their IT environment to capitalize on new opportunities, ensuring long -term success. Here are seven essential changes that organizations are currently bringing to maximize technology and empower their teams.
Cloud-up
If your business is still based on inherited and on -site systems, you lack significant productivity advantages. Moving to the cloud is essential to streamlining any IT change. Once your data is organized and accessible in the cloud, you can leverage tools like Microsoft’s AI assistant, Copilot for M365.
Moving to the cloud improves collaboration by enabling document sharing without the need for email attachments, reducing version control issues. It also eliminates the need for a VPN, as cloud platforms handle authentication with multi-factor authentication (MFA). Financially, the cloud offers cost savings by eliminating the need for frequent hardware upgrades and reducing infrastructure costs by only paying for what you use. Microsoft estimates that migrating to Azure can save up to 54percent on infrastructure costs compared to onpremise setups.
Enhance security
Cyber attackers are becoming more sophisticated, targeting sensitive business data and financial information. Enhancing your cyber security is essential not just for protection but also for maintaining client trust. Adhering to industry standards like Cyber Essentials and ISO270001 demonstrates your commitment to security. Strong cyber security is also crucial for productivity. Customers who are aware of cyber threats will prefer to do business with companies that have a strong security track record. Failure to respond to security requests can result in missed business opportunities.
Use Business Intelligence
Data-driven decision making is essential in today’s business environment. Using internal and external data for predictive analytics can help anticipate changes in demand and optimize resource allocation. Business Intelligence tools provide real-time insights into operational efficiency and customer behavior. Effective data management and analysis can significantly improve agility and productivity. Properly organizing and classifying data enables better decision making and operational efficiency.
Go mobile
The hybrid work model has become a standard, providing flexibility and access to a broader talent pool. IT is the enabler of this model, ensuring employees have seamless access to systems, whether they are in the office or working remotely. Tools like Microsoft Teams and cloud-based solutions like Azure Virtual Desktop make communication and collaboration easier. Safety remains the greatest importance in hybrid work models. Investment in final points security, monitoring of the cloud platform and the reaction of knowledge recognition is important to protect you from cyber-menses intended for remote workers.
The shadow of the shadow
The supply of your team with the right tools is crucial to prevent the use of unauthorized and personally acquired tools, which are called Shadow IT. Shadow not only waste resources, but also represents considerable security and compliance risks.
To fight it to fight it:
Turn the safety guidelines to limit the unauthorized device and the use of the software.
Implement cyber security tools to protect your network from unauthorized access.
Provide employees with the necessary tools to perform their roles efficiently.
Educate employees on the risks of Shadow IT and promote best practices.
Leverage Automation
Identifying tasks that can be automated can greatly enhance productivity by reducing human error and speeding up processes. Automation frees up employees to focus on tasks requiring creativity, strategy, and empathy. Microsoft Power Automate is an easy-to-use platform that enables non-technical staff to create automations, reducing the burden on IT specialists. Conduct an audit of your business processes to identify tasks suitable for automation and explore available solutions, including generative AI.
Harness the power of AI
AI is transforming businesses by streamlining everyday tasks and increasing productivity. Microsoft Copilot for M365 is an AI-powered assistant that integrates with everyday apps like Word, Excel, and Outlook, providing real-time data access and generating new content.
Examples of Copilot’s capabilities include summarizing action points for meetings, assembling data for visualizations, and summarizing missed discussions. While implementing AI involves managing data security risks, tools like Copilot for M365 are designed with robust security measures, ensuring data protection.
Next steps
These seven IT changes can significantly boost productivity and set your organization up for future success. Assess which changes are most relevant to your business and start implementing them to overcome IT challenges, enhance productivity, and maintain security. By adopting these strategies, you can position your organization for long-term growth and resilience in the modern business landscape.
Source: myjoyonline
