What to look for when upgrading your IT network

Every successful business needs to review its IT system from time to time. Is everything still working at maximum efficiency? Has it been kept up-to-date with the latest technological advances? Will it be able to cope with any planned growth or changes in business practice?

Deciding to upgrade or completely renew your business IT network is perhaps the easiest step. Once you start looking at all the options, the choices can be confusing!

Here are the important questions to ask:

What exactly does the business need?
Ideally, you should invest in a system that can meet all the current needs of your business and will be easy and economical to adapt to future growth. But you don’t want to waste money on a package that includes equipment that will seldom or never be used. To get the balance right you will need to conduct an in-depth analysis of your exact requirements.

Who will I buy from?
Every computer hardware and software company will tell you that their products are the best. If you are not sure, ask the advice of an unbiased expert. Whatever brands you choose, you are more likely to get a competitive price if you buy everything you need from the same reputable supplier. You will also be able to check that all the components are compatible.

Who will install the new system?
To guarantee a smooth switch over with the minimum amount of disruption, have your new system installed by qualified, experienced engineers. Choose someone who will not only test everything thoroughly after installation, but will also make sure that you (or your staff) know how to use the new equipment correctly.

What if things go wrong?
Who will you call if you have a problem with the new network? The supplier? The installer? Or someone who knows nothing about your business and will need to familiarise themselves with the system? Are you – or a member of your staff – able to maintain and monitor everything to keep it running properly and deal with potential problems before they occur?

Upgrading your IT network needs careful planning if you want to avoid expensive mistakes. For many businesses the best choice is to ask the advice of a specialist IT support company. Look for one you can trust to undertake the whole project for you. This should include analysing your needs in detail, procuring and installing the equipment, and offering maintenance cover, 24 hour remote monitoring and all the support you’ll need to get the best out of your new network for many years to come.