Remote access technology is an ambiguous term in today's technology marketplace. What would you say if someone asked you, “How do you access your work email from your phone?” You may know exactly where and how your company's email is stored, but most of us would be confused by the question and even more confused as to why this caveman doesn't know how to download an application and…
Managed IT services costs vary depending on the IT provider's experience and breadth of services. While some IT firms may advertise offerings at a surprisingly low rate, it's essential your business consider the IT consultant's ability to align the technology you use with your business goals. Ask the following questions when considering IT outsourcing costs: Does the managed IT services provider offer scheduled business reviews? Does the IT outsourcing provider…
If you're a small to medium-size business, you're likely in need of an efficient and secure IT environment. However, it can be difficult to afford the time and expense necessary to fulfill these needs solely via an in-house IT solution. We've worked with hundreds of growing businesses and have plenty of experience balancing the scale of budget and resources. Our clients often ask, "What are IT managed services?" and "What…
Microsoft Office 365's debut in June 2011 forever changed the IT capabilities of small to medium size businesses. However, it also presented thousands of companies with the questions, "Should I switch from an on-site Exchange server to Office 365's cloud-based email solution?" and, "How do I compare Exchange Online and in-house Exchange?" It can be a comprehensive task to accurately compare Exchange Online and in-house Exchange. We have worked with…
At Aldridge, CryptoLocker is no stranger. Our team of technical professionals have helped hundreds of companies fight for the security of their data. Yes, there are technical measures that have been developed to prevent malware like CryptoLocker from hijacking your files, but cybercriminals have made a business out of this information thievery, and their methods develop right alongside prevention tactics. This is why it's important to stay informed about the latest…
Here at Aldridge, we've worked with a variety of CPA firms to help them find the right technology solutions to fit their business. Often, these companies are eager to adopt the latest software application or innovative offering without realizing the actual time and cost required to implement the technology. If you're a financial firm, the security of your data and systems is integral to your relationship with clients. Without proper…
Law firms often come to us looking for advice as to which technology trends will drive their firm in the coming year. However, compromising security to embrace the latest technology innovation is not an option for a firm whose primary asset is sensitive information. Bleeding edge technology tools are new and in the process of undergoing security improvements and additional refinement, making it difficult for your firm to justify the…
If your business is looking to improve its IT functions, it can be difficult to know which IT solution will best fit your company's culture and processes. Two common solutions are to outsource IT or to keep IT functions in-house. However, to compare managed IT services and in-house IT solutions, an organization needs to consider more than just each solution's cost. We've talked with hundreds of companies and we always…
Growing businesses are often challenged with questions such as, “Should I switch from in-house to an outsourced IT provider? Is this the right decision for us? What are the pros and cons of IT outsourcing?” If your business is looking to invest in a managed service provider (MSP), you should consider the benefit your business will receive from outsourced IT as a whole, as well as from the…
Every year, we talk to hundreds of companies and we often get asked to answer, "What is IT outsourcing? What exactly does it mean to outsource one's IT services?" If you're going to trust someone to manage such a critical part of your business, you need to understand what they are doing. This article will review the history, services, future, and common misconceptions regarding IT outsourcing. By the end, you…
