The Power Up: How Computers Drive Small Business Success

stairway to success

In today’s digital age, computers are no longer a luxury for small businesses – they’re a necessity. From streamlining operations to expanding reach, these versatile tools offer a multitude of benefits that can propel a small business towards success.

Productivity

One of the most significant advantages is the boost in productivity. Computers automate repetitive tasks like data entry and inventory management, freeing up valuable time for employees to focus on more strategic initiatives. Additionally, software programs streamline communication and collaboration, allowing teams to work together seamlessly, regardless of location.

Financial Management

Financial management is another area transformed by computers. Accounting software simplifies bookkeeping and payroll, ensuring accuracy and efficiency. Furthermore, businesses can leverage online banking and financial planning tools to gain better control over their cash flow and make informed investment decisions.

Marketing

Marketing is no longer limited by geographic boundaries thanks to computers. Small businesses can create professional websites and utilize social media platforms to reach a wider audience and establish a strong online presence. Cost-effective email marketing campaigns can nurture leads and build customer loyalty.

Data-driven decision-making

Computers also empower data-driven decision-making. With access to real-time analytics, businesses can track sales trends, customer behaviour, and market performance. This valuable information allows them to identify areas for improvement, optimize marketing strategies, and make data-backed choices for future growth.

Affordable

The cost of computer technology has become increasingly affordable, making it accessible to even the smallest businesses. Additionally, with a variety of cloud-based solutions available, small businesses can avoid the upfront investment in expensive hardware and software.

In Conclusion

In conclusion, computers are essential tools for small businesses to thrive in the competitive marketplace. By leveraging their power to increase productivity, improve communication, manage finances effectively, and make data-driven decisions, small businesses can establish a strong foundation for success and achieve their full potential. Get in touch and we can chat about your needs and the way ahead.

The Worst That Can Happen If You Don’t Update Your IT Equipment as A Business

Worse that could happen

In today’s digital world, it is more important than ever for businesses to keep their IT equipment up to date. Outdated equipment can lead to a number of problems, including:

  • Security breaches: Outdated software and hardware are more vulnerable to cyberattacks. Hackers can exploit known vulnerabilities to gain access to your systems and steal data or disrupt your operations.
  • Compliance issues: Many industries have regulations that require businesses to use certain types of IT equipment or software. If you don’t update your equipment, you could face fines or other penalties.
  • Performance problems: Outdated equipment is often slower and less efficient than newer models. This can lead to productivity losses and customer dissatisfaction.
  • Compatibility problems: Newer software and hardware may not be compatible with older equipment. This can make it difficult to integrate new systems into your existing infrastructure and can lead to data loss or corruption.
  • Increased costs: In the long run, outdated equipment can cost you more money. You may have to pay for more expensive repairs or replacements, or you may lose business to competitors who have invested in newer technology.

Here are some of the worst things that can happen to your business if you don’t update your IT equipment:

  • Data loss: A data breach can be devastating for a business. If your IT equipment is outdated and vulnerable to attack, hackers could steal your customer data, financial information, or intellectual property. This could lead to lost revenue, reputational damage, and even legal liability.
  • System outages: Outdated equipment is more likely to fail, which can lead to system outages. This can disrupt your operations and cost you money. For example, if your online store goes down, you could lose sales and damage your customer relationships.
  • Compliance violations: Many industries have regulations that require businesses to use certain types of IT equipment or software. If you don’t update your equipment, you could face fines or other penalties. For example, healthcare providers must comply with HIPAA regulations, which require them to use certain security measures to protect patient data.
  • Competitive disadvantage: Your competitors are probably investing in new IT equipment to improve their efficiency and productivity. If you don’t do the same, you will quickly fall behind. Outdated equipment can make it difficult to keep up with customer demand and offer innovative new products and services.

What can you do to avoid these problems?

The best way to avoid the problems associated with outdated IT equipment is to have a regular replacement schedule. You should also keep your software up to date by applying security patches and updates as soon as they are available.

If you are not sure whether your IT equipment is up to date, you can consult with an IT professional. They can assess your needs and recommend the best way to update your systems. We at ITTP carry out I.T. needs analysis surveys for this very reason.

Here are some tips for updating your IT equipment:

  • Create a budget and a timeline: Before you start updating your IT equipment, it is important to create a budget and a timeline. This will help you to stay on track and avoid overspending.
  • Prioritize your needs: Not all IT equipment is created equal. Some equipment is more important to your business than others. Prioritize your needs and update the most important equipment first.
  • Consider your options: There are a number of different ways to update your IT equipment. You can buy new equipment, lease equipment, or rent equipment. Consider your budget and your needs to choose the best option for your business.
  • Get help from an IT professional: If you are not sure how to update your IT equipment, you can get help from an IT professional. They can help you to choose the right equipment and install it correctly.

 Contact us on our Contact form page here. Updating your IT equipment is an investment in the future of your business. By keeping your systems up to date, you can avoid a number of problems and improve your efficiency, productivity, and security.

Upgraded Old Computers vs. New Computers: Striking the Balance between Nostalgia and Performance

refurbished equipment

As technology rapidly advances, the dilemma between sticking to a beloved old computer or investing in a brand-new one becomes a recurring conundrum for many users. Both options have their merits, catering to different needs and preferences. Let’s explore the pros and cons of upgrading an old computer versus purchasing a new one.

Upgrading an old computer often appeals to the sentimental user, someone who has grown attached to their trusted machine over the years. Nostalgia plays a significant role here, as they cherish the memories associated with their loyal companion. Additionally, upgrading specific components, such as adding more RAM, replacing the hard drive with an SSD, or upgrading the graphics card, can breathe new life into the system. This approach is often more budget-friendly than buying a brand-new computer, allowing users to extend the lifespan of their machine without a hefty upfront cost.

However, there are limitations to upgrading old computers. Technological progress moves at a rapid pace, and older systems might not be compatible with the latest hardware and software. Upgrading certain components might not yield substantial performance improvements due to hardware bottlenecks or outdated architecture. Eventually, the old computer may reach a point where further upgrades are no longer feasible or cost-effective, leaving the user with a compromised computing experience.

On the other hand, investing in a new computer guarantees cutting-edge technology and performance. Modern computers come equipped with the latest processors, graphics cards, and other components, ensuring a smooth and efficient user experience. Moreover, new computers often offer enhanced energy efficiency, reducing the environmental impact compared to older, power-hungry machines.

However, new computers can be considerably more expensive than upgrades. For some users, the cost of purchasing a brand-new system might not fit their budget. Additionally, buying a new computer means parting ways with the familiar, personalized setup of their old machine, which can be a difficult adjustment for long-time users.

Ultimately, the decision between upgrading an old computer and buying a new one depends on individual needs and circumstances. If nostalgia, budget constraints, and modest computing requirements are paramount, upgrading an old computer can be a viable option. However, for those seeking cutting-edge performance, compatibility with the latest software, and have the financial means, a new computer is the way to go.

At I.T. Turning Point we have a source of quality refurbished computers, with a guarantee. reducing the carbon footprint of buying a brand-new computer. Get in touch and we can chat about things and your specific needs. Click here

Regardless of the choice, responsible e-waste management should always be a consideration. Donating or recycling old computers ensures they don’t end up in landfills, contributing to environmental sustainability. Whichever path users take, finding the right balance between nostalgia and performance will lead to a computing experience that meets their unique preferences and needs.

Technology is developing at an unprecedented pace

techdevelopemnts

Technology is developing at an unprecedented pace. New innovations are being introduced all the time, and it can be difficult to keep up. This can make it challenging to plan for how technology will be used in the future.

However, there are a few things that you can do to make sure that you are prepared for the future of technology.

First, it is important to stay up-to-date on the latest trends. Read articles, attend conferences, and talk to experts in the field. This will help you to understand the potential impact of new technologies and how they could be used in your organization.

Second, you need to develop a clear vision for how you want to use technology. What are your goals? What are your challenges? How can technology help you to achieve your goals and overcome your challenges? Once you have a clear vision, you can start to develop a plan for how to implement it.

Finally, you need to be flexible. The pace of technological change is constantly accelerating. What works today may not work tomorrow. This means that you need to be willing to adapt your plans as needed.

By following these tips, you can ensure that you are prepared for the future of technology. By staying up-to-date, developing a clear vision, and being flexible, you can use technology to your advantage and achieve your goals.

Here are some additional tips for planning to use technology:

Identify your needs. What do you hope to achieve by using technology? Once you know what you want to achieve, you can start to look for solutions that will help you reach your goals.

Consider your resources. How much money do you have to spend on technology? What kind of expertise do you have in-house? These factors will help you to narrow down your options and choose the right solutions for your needs.

Do your research. Read reviews, compare products, and talk to other users before making a decision. This will help you to make sure that you are getting the best possible value for your money.

Get training. Once you have chosen your technology, make sure that you and your employees are trained on how to use it effectively. This will help to ensure that you get the most out of your investment.

By following these tips, you can make sure that you are planning for the future of technology in a way that is both effective and efficient.

Check us out at https://www.itturningpoint.com

The AI Revolution, Pros and Cons. Article 2

AI

Artificial intelligence (AI) is a branch of computer science that deals with the creation of intelligent agents, which are systems that can reason, learn, and act autonomously. AI has the potential to revolutionize many aspects of our lives, from the way we work to the way we interact with the world around us.

There are many potential benefits to the AI revolution. For example, AI could be used to automate tasks that are currently done by humans, freeing up our time for more creative and fulfilling pursuits. AI could also be used to improve healthcare, education, and transportation.

However, there are also some potential risks associated with the AI revolution. For example, AI could be used to create autonomous weapons that could kill without human intervention. AI could also be used to create systems that are able to manipulate and control human behaviour.

It is important to be aware of both the potential benefits and risks of the AI revolution. We need to ensure that AI is used in a way that benefits all of humanity, and that we do not allow AI to become a threat to our existence.

Here are some of the pros and cons of the AI revolution:

Pros:

  • AI can automate tasks that are currently done by humans, freeing up our time for more creative and fulfilling pursuits.
  • AI can improve healthcare, education, and transportation.
  • AI can help us to better understand the world around us.
  • AI can help us to make better decisions.

Cons:

  • AI could be used to create autonomous weapons that could kill without human intervention.
  • AI could be used to create systems that are able to manipulate and control human behaviour.
  • AI could lead to mass unemployment, as machines become capable of doing many of the jobs that are currently done by humans.
  • AI could lead to a widening of the gap between the rich and the poor, as those who own the AI systems will benefit from increased productivity and efficiency, while those who do not will be left behind.

In Conclusion

It is important to weigh the pros and cons of the AI revolution carefully before making any decisions about how to use this technology. We need to ensure that AI is used in a way that benefits all of humanity, and that we do not allow AI to become a threat to our existence.

The AI Revolution, Pros and Cons. Article 1

working smarter
Time for change

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has taken the world by storm and is revolutionizing the way we live, work, and interact with each other. AI is a technology that enables machines to learn and perform tasks that would typically require human intelligence, such as problem-solving, decision-making, and natural language processing. The AI revolution is happening right now, and it has both pros and cons.

On the positive side, AI is bringing about significant improvements in various industries, including healthcare, finance, transportation, and manufacturing. AI-powered robots and machines are taking over tedious, repetitive, and dangerous tasks, allowing humans to focus on more creative and productive work. AI-powered medical devices are helping doctors and healthcare professionals to diagnose and treat diseases more accurately and efficiently. AI-powered vehicles are making transportation safer and more sustainable.

AI is also helping businesses to improve their operations, increase their efficiency, and reduce costs. AI-powered systems can analyse vast amounts of data, identify patterns, and provide insights that help businesses to make informed decisions. AI-powered chatbots and virtual assistants are enhancing customer service, providing 24/7 support to customers, and improving customer satisfaction.

However, the AI revolution also has its downsides. One of the most significant concerns is job displacement. As machines become more intelligent, they are taking over jobs traditionally performed by humans, leading to job losses and unemployment. This could have a severe impact on society, particularly for low-skilled workers who may find it challenging to find new employment.

Another significant concern is the potential misuse of AI. As AI becomes more advanced, it could be used to create autonomous weapons, surveillance systems, and other technologies that could threaten human rights and freedoms. There is also the risk of AI being used to perpetrate cyber-attacks or manipulate public opinion, which could have disastrous consequences.

In Conclusion

The AI revolution is happening right now, and it has both pros and cons. While AI has the potential to bring about significant improvements in various industries, it also poses significant challenges and risks. As we continue to develop and deploy AI technologies, it is essential to be mindful of the potential risks and take steps to mitigate them. Ultimately, the key to harnessing the power of AI lies in responsible development, deployment, and regulation.

Using Technology into the future

technology into the future
One world loads of technology

The use of technology has dramatically changed the way we live, work, and communicate over the past few decades, and this trend is expected to continue into the future. The advancement of technology has brought us the internet, smartphones, and artificial intelligence, which have revolutionized the way we interact with the world and with each other.

In the future, technology will continue to play a significant role in shaping the way we live our lives. The Internet of Things (IoT) will become even more prevalent, connecting everyday devices and allowing them to communicate with each other, leading to increased automation and efficiency. Augmented and virtual reality will become increasingly mainstream, changing the way we experience the world and interact with others.

Artificial intelligence will continue to evolve and become more sophisticated, transforming industries such as healthcare, finance, and transportation. AI will be used to diagnose and treat illnesses, automate tedious tasks, and make complex decisions. Automation will also lead to job displacement, which will need to be addressed to ensure that people can adapt to the changing economy.

Blockchain technology will also become more widespread, providing increased security and transparency for transactions and enabling the creation of decentralized systems. 5G networks will become more widespread, providing faster and more reliable internet access, which will be crucial for the development of new technologies such as autonomous vehicles and smart cities.

In Conclusion

The use of technology will continue to evolve and transform the way we live and interact with each other in the future. It will bring new opportunities and challenges, and it is essential that we stay ahead of the curve by adapting to the changes and ensuring that technology is used for the betterment of society. The future is unpredictable, but one thing is certain – technology will play a significant role in shaping it.

Get in touch now and have a chat about how we can help keep you ahead of the game. Click here

Pixel Devices Update

An update on Pixel usage

Thought we would pop on and give an update on the pixel devices now we have been using them and they have had a number of updates.

Google Pixel 7 Pro Phone

As mentioned in our first post we have been using the phone for business and leisure.

What are we finding?

Well, it does the job and has only had a few glitches that have caused concern. The screen has on occasion went faded out and then come back again after pressing a few buttons. It also hasn’t responded quickly to some light changes in the room I have been in. A slight lag as they say.

The battery is OK and it seems to cope with all the apps I use and the constant usage for business and then leisure. (And I assure you that’s a lot.)

The screen is large and very clear once you step it up to the higher display setting. Very sharp and clear. The camera is doing what it says as well and you can zoom in a great distance and still get clear pictures, due to the AI taking over. Also, Macro is good and I find myself using portrait mode when taking closer photos and it blurs the background. I have only played with the magic eraser a few times and it works. Sometimes it guesses and gets the filing background slightly askew.

Processors are fast and the security levels are much improved. I now have access to Google VPN when out and about as well. So, all in all, tick, tick, tick.

The leather case I ordered from Google as well and I am slightly disappointed with it. It is becoming dirty very fast and scuffing at comers and edges are becoming visible. I may have to replace this.

Onto the Pixel Watch

Well, as mentioned in the initial post, the battery life here is the problem and I still charge it around three times per day. I have had some updates and I thought this might cure things. But alas no.

It has also had some glitches with the use of NFC for payments and sometimes just doesn’t perform.

I also had problems adding my company card to the watch for payment and have had to contact my bank on each occasion. It crashed on me after an update and I had to research getting it running again as it had frozen on restarting screen. Got there eventually. It just seems a bit buggy. I have had Wear watches for a good few years now. Staring with a Motorola one and then a Huawei W1 and then the Fossil Gen 5. So, no stranger to them. This one just needs something that would make it more stable.

The strap design, for getting on and off is good and I have ordered some extra straps and can change them easily. The battery and the bugginess are the main issues. Will see how things go.

All these devices were purchased from the Google Store. https://store.google.com/gb/?hl=en-GB

Watch this space and we may be back soon, let us know what your thoughts are if you have dived into the Pixel train

Pixel 7 Pro and Pixel Watch Test Driving

Oh new toys to play with

Google Pixel 7 Pro Phone

So we took delivery of the new Google Pixel flagship range of devices. We had to replace our ageing Pixel 5 phone and Fossil smartwatch. So this seemed an excellent time to try the new goods.

As you know we have been Google fans for phones and tech for a while and this is us just keeping to what we know best. The Pixel 7 Pro is the larger of the two Pixel 7 phones. So WE wanted to try all the extra bells and whistles it has. The camera and the built-in AI intrigues us and we wanted t see if it lived up to what they claim. It is early days yet but we are so far impressed. even the under-screen fingerprint reader has improved a lot in the Pixel 7 Pro. It is a larger phone and the screen resolution can be pumped up and give the sharpest of images. We will report back in a few weeks on the pros and cons we have found after using it for business and leisure.

Onto the Pixel Watch

Google’s well-rumoured first dive into a Wear product. It is not as watch-looking as my previous Fossil Watch. But works well. The only thing we are finding so far is the battery just doesn’t last and we are charging it through the day at least twice, so it can be worn it at night and check sleep patterns. It also doesn’t fast charge at this point and doesn’t use the rumoured QI charging. so you can only use the supplied charger base. Will see if they push out any updates to improve things. It also has its own dedicated App and not the Wear app I used before. Will again report back on usage, but these are some of the initial findings.

Watch this space for more info as we collate our findings in the weeks to come.

So, Windows 11 then?

Windows 11

Microsoft has done the very thing it said it wouldn’t and launched a new operating system, Windows 11. They had always said that Windows 10 would be the last and it would be tailored and updated. However, here we are with a new version of Windows. So, Windows 11 then?

So lets all go and download and install it.

Microsoft has said it is a free download for Windows 10 users, so surely it should be a simple case of downloading and installing it. Well, unfortunately, no it isn’t.

So what are the issues, or known issues just now?

Here is what we know so far and it is changing every day. Windows 11 looks at two main things and they are as follows: –

It checks if your current hardware system has something called TPM version 2. (Earlier versions are not supported.) What is TPM, well it is explained here? I have version 1.5 on my system.

The next thing it checks is your processor and it must be 8th generation or higher CPU. I have an i7 and it won’t install on it as it must be an older generation. Now being a green focussed guy I purchased my desktop last year as a refurbished machine and has an i7 and 32Gb of ram and a 480Gb SSD and can handle everything I throw at it. I won’t be changing my machine soon.

Work arounds, what are they and are they recommended?

Now you may have read about various workarounds and even Microsoft posted a link to give a workaround for the TPM check. It involves changing registry settings on the current machine and then running the install package from a downloaded ISO of Windows 11. Someone has also come up with a workaround for the CPU being a problem. Some people I know have managed to install even though Windows 11 said their system wasn’t compatible.

But, the big elephant in the room is that Microsoft even in their own article about the workaround for the TPM has said, “We do not recommend this as the system maybe become unstable and it may affect future updates.”

The problem with these specific workarounds is that when Windows 11 updates run in the future the system may become corrupted or even completely brick itself and the machine will have to be flattened and reinstalled with a system that works. So do these at your own risk.

So what are Microsoft playing at?

Answers on a postcard, please. They have copied Apple on the TPM front which ties the Operating System to the Hardware. But making the processor such a new version seems a bit ridiculous, as I can’t see larger organisations and even some smaller orgainsations I deal with replacing all their machines just to get Windows 11. The cost would be massive and very prohibitive. This would suggest that Microsoft is going to have to support Windows 10 well into the future until these organisations replace their machines with the later kit. I honestly think that Microsoft has lost the ball here and/or is playing a new card that we are all unsure of. They may be trying to force people to replace machines, they have rumored that Windows will become a Software as a service like Office 365, and in fact, they have that just now where you can purchase Microsoft 365 which includes the Operating System. How this will be affected by Windows 11 being so selective, for the people who have already purchased this I don’t know.

Here are a few other links that talk about the workarounds and some of the Windows 11 stuff. ( I do not recommend these, do them at your own risk)

TPM workaround, https://www.bleepingcomputer.com/news/microsoft/microsoft-shares-windows-11-tpm-check-bypass-for-unsupported-pcs/

CPU workaround, Check out this site.

Windows 11 causing problems with AMD processors, https://www.theverge.com/2021/10/6/22713310/windows-11-amd-ryzen-processors-performance-issues-software-update-october

Good luck out there folks