It’s the fourth quarter of 2021 and what is your team likely reviewing? Your budget. As teams wrap up the end of the year and begin preparing for what lies ahead in 2022, now is also the ideal time to review your technology needs. With supply chain issues causing massive delays in delivery as well as a major Windows 11 becoming available in the near future, there are several factors for your team to consider as you determine what next steps you may need to take in your technology. As you begin these conversations, here are three key areas to address:
1. Assess Your Current Technology Infrastructure
Now is the perfect time to review both the hardware and software technology you have. First, and most importantly, consider the security software you have protecting your technology. Is this running smoothly? Now is a good time to consider whether this needs an upgrade or change as part of your daily cybersecurity protection. Next, consider your hardware. As machines get older they run less efficiently, which can look like machines taking a while to startup or reboot and an overall crash of your team’s productivity is inevitable. Keep in mind that it’s more cost-effective to replace your hardware versus having your IT team keep old hardware running.
2. Avoid Supply Chain Issues By Planning Ahead
Since the COVID-19 pandemic, there have been exceptionally long wait times for all industries, and information technology has not been spared. You may be waiting several months to replace a laptop, so have a plan in place for updating that equipment before it’s an emergency. When you assess your current technology infrastructure, consider which software and hardware upgrades take priority and develop a rollout plan that fits within your budget.
3. Develop a Strategic Investment Plan
Technology is an investment in the long-term health and safety of your business; however, your year-end budget planning naturally has to consider all aspects of your business. Fortunately, technology is an area where you can consider purchasing new items or leasing them. With the option to buy or rent, you can make the best decision for your team – and your budget.
End-of-year budget planning doesn’t need to be stressful, especially when you are proactive in assessing your business needs. With information technology, it’s never ideal to wait until there is a fire alarm. This year specifically, it would be in your best interest to start this process now as IT providers are seeing very long lead times across the industry. By taking these steps now to develop a strategic plan can save you the headache – and expense – in 2022.
Contact CMIT Solutions of South Nassau for all of your IT budget planning needs and we’ll help you develop a customized strategic IT plan for your team.
