It's that time of year again: the time when we all make resolutions for the coming year. Since technology plays a crucial role in the success of any company, business owners and managers need to make tech-related resolutions.
Here are four IT resolutions you should make for 2023:
1. Update your network documentation
Network documentation is highly crucial when a disaster destroys your network, your chief IT administrator leaves, or compliance auditors drop by. When any of those events occur, your IT employees may end up frantically scrambling for old network diagrams and other related files.
Having an updated detailed record of your network infrastructure will help you prepare for any of those events. This document will provide all the necessary information about how your network was constructed, its use, and maintenance so your IT team will know exactly what needs to be done if disaster strikes. It’s also helpful for transitioning IT administrators and keeping up with regulatory compliance requirements.
Moreover, documenting your network's characteristics, capabilities, and history is key to troubleshooting any issues quickly and effectively. It’ll also ensure the scalability and stability of your IT infrastructure as you make changes in the future.
2. Undergo IT vulnerability and risk assessments
Regular IT vulnerability and risk assessments will enable you to identify any weaknesses in your IT systems and processes, such as:
- Outdated software, missing third-party patches, and misconfigurations
- Poor business and IT management practices that could lead to data breaches
- Security settings, protocols, and procedures that aren't compliant with industry rules and regulations
When you ask Founders Technology Group to handle these assessments, we'll also run penetration tests in which we'll attempt to breach your company's cyber defenses. We’ll then provide detailed recommendations on what you need to do to improve security, including:
- Updating security software settings
- Implementing security solutions
- Purchasing up-to-date equipment
- Providing employee awareness training
- Reviewing the security processes of vendors, suppliers, and other third parties that have access to your IT systems
- Adopting a zero trust security model
3. Create a hardware refresh plan
Many companies buy IT equipment but fail to create a hardware refresh plan. They simply change their hardware when it breaks down or when they have extra money. This approach may leave you with inadequate IT equipment that can't keep up with your company's demands or unexpected IT expenses in the event of hardware failure. Both scenarios can be extremely frustrating and disruptive to your operations.
A hardware refresh plan will help you determine when equipment needs to be upgraded and how much to allocate for the upgrades. Not only will having a plan eliminate unexpected IT expenses, but it will also minimize downtime caused by inadequate or broken equipment. When done properly, a hardware refresh plan can lead to cost savings since you can plan your IT purchases and take advantage of discounts.
4. Regularly test your backup and disaster recovery (BDR) plan
Companies create a BDR plan to ensure that they can quickly resume operations if disaster strikes. What they usually fail to realize is that something could also go wrong to disrupt their BDR scheme. This is why it's important to regularly test your BDR plan.
BDR testing will allow you to check if you're not meeting the expected recovery targets and make necessary changes to improve outcomes during a real disaster. It can also identify any vulnerabilities that need to be addressed.
You can rely on Founders Technology Group to help you meet these IT resolutions. With our help, you can rest easy knowing your technology will support you in meeting your business goals. Schedule your complimentary consultation with us.