by Felicien | Jul 6, 2018 | Education
Pricing Out a Managed IT Services Plan: What You Need To Know?
Developing a cost-effective and customized price plan for managed IT services
It’s no surprise that any modern business is – to some degree – dependent on technology. No matter what kind of devices your organization uses or the kind of work your organization does, making sure your technology is up and running to support operations is critical. Even more critical? Determining the right kind of IT support to match organizational needs and determining the right price to pay for it.
Like with any other managed service, pricing out IT support services must reflect the unique needs and realities of each business. There really is no ‘one-size-fits-all’ managed IT price plan. Professionals looking to price out managed IT services need to adopt an informed and proactive approach. Don’t wait until a disaster happens to start pricing out managed IT support. The first step is determining what you need – and that means taking a detailed IT inventory.
Strategic Spending: How Taking a Tech Inventory Will Help You Price Out Managed IT
When you go to the grocery store, it’s common practice to make a list. Otherwise, you find yourself wandering the aisles, unsure of what needs to be stocked up at home. You end up getting home with a big full of things you didn’t need and realize you forgot some of the main items you went to the store for. It sounds simplistic, but pricing out your managed IT service plan should follow the same logic
You don’t want to dive headlong into pricing out a provider before you know exactly what you need. How many computers and devices does your company use? Do they all need to be monitored? What about software and hardware updates – is your organization behind the times and in need of rejuvenation? Do you need round-the-clock support or are you looking for help on an as-needed basis?
Asking yourself these questions will make pricing out managed IT services much easier. Even better? It will help ensure that you don’t end up with a wealth of services and features that you don’t need or that don’t apply to you. This way, when you meet with providers, you’ll be armed with a clear idea of what’s required and what isn’t. Being proactive and thorough is the best way to start a transparent and productive pricing conversation with potential providers.
Comparing Existing Models: Understanding the Pros and Cons of Each
Once you understand the extent and type of IT support services you require, exploring the existing pricing models is a great next step. There are five main pricing models that organizations choose from. Each has its own benefits and drawbacks. However, the ultimate usefulness of each will vary based on the needs of different organizations.
Let’s explore some of the leading managed IT service pricing models:
Per-Device/Per-User
The per-device or per-user pricing models are celebrated for their flexibility and simplicity. On the per-device model, you pay a flat rate for a device that is supported and monitored by the IT partner, including desktops, laptops, servers, smartphones, tablets, etc. Per-device models are attractive in that they offer the easy adding or removing of devices as needed. However, it’s a good idea to do some research and ensure the per-device rate you’ve been offered is set appropriately based on market realities.
On the per-user device model, a flat rate is issued for each user or employee at your organization – no matter how many or what kind of devices each person uses. Per-user pricing models are attractive because they simplify the billing process. However, if your user base is continually growing and each user is starting to use two or three devices each, keep in mind that your managed IT partner may want to revisit cost-margin considerations.
Value-Based Flat Fee
Flat-fee, value-based pricing models are becoming more and more popular in the managed service sector. Often referred to as ‘cake’ pricing, the value-based model offers organizations ‘full-service’ coverage instead of separated and specialized components. On this model, you truly do ‘buy the cake’ rather than the ingredients you need to make it. Value-based pricing models are great options for SMBs since the model offers wide-spread, comprehensive coverage and services.
Under the value-based pricing model, your managed IT partner essentially takes on the role of your outsourced IT department. They take care of everything for a singular flat rate. Keep in mind though, that if you select this option, you must trust your managed IT partner to cover all your bases and provide adequate full-scope coverage as your IT needs evolve.
Tiered
Under the tiered pricing model, managed service providers offer a variety of service packages, ranked using levels like Bronze, Silver, Gold, and Platinum. Each tier includes a specified range of services and support. This makes it easy for business owners to check out the specs of each package and choose one that is both cost-effective and tailored to their specific needs.
Do keep in mind, however, that sometimes service packages will contain some things you need and some you may not. While its possible, pre-established tiered service packages may not always be a flawless fit with your needs and budget parameters. When using this model, its best to select the service tier that gives you as much relevant support as possible while staying inside your cost margins. This way you’ll avoid investing in services or fancy solutions that you don’t want or need.
A-la-carte
The a-la-carte pricing model works just as it sounds. You’re able to build-your-own service plan based on the supports and solutions that you require and nothing more. This is perhaps the most celebrated model as it offers maximum flexibility and customization for organizations.
However, when using an a-la-carte pricing model, it’s a great idea to consult with a third-party expert to ensure you have all your bases covered. The last thing you want is to draw up a service agreement, thinking you’ve thought of everything, only to find out later that you’re missing critical supports and services. Also, be sure to discuss scalability with your provider when using an a-la-carte model. Your needs now may change over time as your business develops. Be sure to have the future in mind and make sure your managed service provider does too.
All-inclusive
Finally, the all-inclusive model offers a flat-fee for all services. This model truly focuses on providing the ‘whole-package’ and a total service experience for one, fixed cost. Instead of offering different tiers or ‘build-your-own’ options, the full-service, all-inclusive option seeks to be one-size-fits-all support solution applicable to any business.
This is an attractive model for business owners who don’t want to get lost in the nuts and bolts of their IT support – they just want to be supported and have their technology to work consistently. However, though tempting, the budget conscious should keep in mind that the “all or nothing approach” can come with the heftiest price tag.
Setting Priorities: The Features and Services Your Price Plan Should Prioritize
When it comes down to it, your managed IT price plan should be a guidebook for how you’re going to make the most out of your IT support investment. Of course, you want to get as many features as possible for the best price. However, the bottom line is, budgets are often tight and getting the enterprise-level, full-service IT experience may not always be a financial possibility. So, while it’s important to make the most of your investment, it’s critical that at the very least, your IT support partner is offering you some very basic ROI benefits.
No matter your needs or the model you choose, your managed IT price plan should include these three features as priorities:
Security
It’s no secret that today’s cybersecurity climate is more complex and hostile than ever before. With more devices in the workforce and more sophisticated cybercriminals waiting in the shadows, the risks to your business data can seem overwhelming.
When pricing out a managed IT plan, security and peace of mind should be on the top of your priority list. No matter the model you choose, your price plan should include specific mention of reliable and dynamic security services and solutions.
Scalability
The nature of business today is rather unpredictable. Your business could be small one month and growing rapidly in the next. Or, you could start big and have to scale back certain areas of your business as things change. No matter the type of business you’re in, change is inevitable.
So, when developing a pricing model for managed IT services, organizations should put a deliberate focus on scalability. The IT partner you choose to invest with should offer concrete ideas regarding how your service plan will grow and evolve with you as your business does.
Streamlining
Technology should make your life easier, not harder. The operations at your organization should be improved and supported by your IT support. Smart and supportive IT solutions will help streamline even the most basic processes in your office.
When developing a managed IT price plan, be sure to emphasize to potential partners that you’re looking to make things work seamlessly. A thorough managed IT price plan will include specific details on how services provided will improve operational efficiency.
Finalizing Your Managed IT Price Plan: Use a Guide, But Trust Your Gut
At the end of the day, you are your own best expert when it comes to developing a managed IT price plan. Only you know what you’re willing or able to spend and only you and your team know what kind of support is most important. So, the best advice we can give is to use these suggestions as a guide, but trust your gut to know when an investment is worth making
As mentioned, take the time to understand what your organization truly needs when it comes to IT support and service. Create an inventory, explore the different models, and choose a solution that makes the most sense for your team and your organization as a whole. Going in with an informed and proactive mindset will be half the battle in pricing out a strategic IT support plan.
Finally, once you’ve done the leg-work, don’t hesitate to reach out to an IT professional for consultation and guidance. Don’t leave it up to the IT pros to price out a plan for you, but do feel comfortable asking questions and getting feedback. A combination of your own insight and expert advice will help you develop a managed IT price plan with major ROI potential.
by Felicien | Jul 6, 2018 | Education
Is Your Organization Protected Against These IoT Exploit Risks?
In a changing digital environment, is your business keeping up with risk management?
The modern workforce is more connected and dynamic than ever before. Digital communication continues to dominate the way businesses get work done. This digital transformation has helped professionals of all kinds make huge strides to get work done faster and from anywhere. Additionally, the Internet of Things (IOT) has made office management and operational efficiency easier than ever.
However, this transformation has come increased risk. In order to provide anywhere, anytime access to business data, organizations are using more devices and in turn, have created more access points to their company networks. Though employees may be able to work from anywhere and through office operations are streamlined, the risks to IT security have undoubtedly increased.
Increased access and IoT streamlining are amazing technological developments that organizations should definitely be taking advantage of. However, with increased access points comes increased risk of cyber attacks of all kinds. In this new age of increasing connection, organizations would be smart to get informed about IoT risks and develop proactive strategies for patching holes and addressing vulnerabilities.
Defining IoT: What is The Internet of Things?
First things first, some may be wondering: what in the world is the “Internet of Things” (IoT). Though it may sound like part of a futuristic sci-fi movie, it actually involves the process of connecting and integrating everyday objects such as tech devices on internet networks. IoT involves the various range of devices that can now be connected to a business network and integrated with other connected devices.
Computers, smartphones, tablets– these are the obvious ones that most businesses use and rely on daily. However, IoT involves a much more expansive range of devices from all corners of an organizations operations. That SmartTV or SmartBoard in your conference room? The new, digital thermostats that allow you to remotely control the office temperature? Your security cameras or digital lock system? All of these modern devices represent access points that leave you vulnerable to cyber invasion.
Securing an IoT Network: Considerations and Challenges
So, with such an expansive network of potential access, security in the IoT age must be a top priority for businesses and organizations of all kinds. Gone are the days of simple firewalls and password protocols. While these things are still critically important, IT security strategies must be much more sophisticated if they’re to stand a chance against increased cyber risk.
Without a strategic and proactive approach to IoT security, your organization can and will be left open to threats you never would have considered. For instance, consider the case of the high-profile casino whose network was hacked via a fish tank thermostat! Yes, that sort of thing is now possible and hackers are taking every opportunity to break through the weakest security areas and wreak havoc in your network.
However, there’s no denying that trying to lock down and manage a growing number of network access points is no easy task. This is especially difficult when more and more businesses are greenlighting bring-your-own-device (BYOD) models. Each of these is another access point where cybercriminals can now infiltrate your computer network.
The only way to get a handle on more proactive and all-encompassing network security is to take inventory of all the access points you need to protect. This will include the basics, like company-owned computers and phones, but should also include the wider range of devices used in your office including thermostats, security systems, employee and visitor devices, etc.
The IoT Exploits You Haven’t Considered: Securing Your Digital Headquarters from All Angles
For context, let’s break down some of the key weak spots that are often missed as business professionals attempt to secure their networks. Take a minute to think. Can you think of all the potential devices or access points that exist in relation to your company network? Our guess is that even if you can, you may be missing some. Further, even if you can think of them all, can you say for sure that each access point is completely monitored and secured?
Check out these leading IoT exploits that could be keeping your organization vulnerable:
Tablets
Tablets have revolutionized the computer in the business space. They’re portable, convenient, and can be used for a variety of purposes. Many employees bring them to meetings for taking notes. More and more, organizations are relying on tablets to help them get work done faster and more efficiently.
Tablets can be found in conference rooms, emergency rooms, and in the briefcases of remote workers. Often, tablets function as a mission control port from which audio-visual systems can be controlled or team meetings can be logged and recorded. However, though tablets have become second nature, their connection to your network make them ports for potential cyber invasion.
If your organization uses tablets, you must treat them like any other computer in the office. Their use should be subject to access control and their connection to the larger network should be secured. This means tablets should be subject to monitoring in the same way that computers and smartphones are. If a device is connected to your network, it must be considered a potential open-door for cybercriminals.
SmartTVs
Speaking of conference rooms, SmartTVs and SmartBoards are quickly replacing the AV equipment of the past. Sleek presentations can be displayed on these devices in hopes of making business meetings more interactive, integrated, and engaging. This has been a great boardroom improvement; however, the increased risk must not be ignored.
SmartTVs are connected to your company network and often have a connection to the public internet for easy searching and browsing. Even worse? SmartTVs are notorious for having less-than-ideal security protocols. This can leave a gaping hole in an organization’s network security. In fact, there have been cases of SmartTV malware hacks where the infected TV attempts to infect any connected device in its range. This can have catastrophic effects for your network.
So, be sure to include all your organization’s ‘smart’ devices in your security inventory. If you rely on a SmartTV for regular meetings or use a SmartBoard to upload company data to the network, these devices must be secured. The last thing you want is a cybercriminal listening in on company meetings or holding your network hostage thanks to an unsecured SmartTV.
Security Cameras
Organizations of all shapes and sizes rely on security monitoring to keep a constant eye on company property and office space. In the spirit of the digital transformation, most security cameras are now IP-based and are connected to company internet networks. They’re cost-effective and offer Cloud-storage and web-streaming features.
Security cameras are supposed to help keep your organization safe, right? That’s obvious. However, these digital security cameras present a unique problem. Because the security feeds can be accessed via the web, they’re easy prey for malicious hackers. Countless stories have hit recent headlines about hacks on company webcams or security cameras that allowed remote spying.
Even worse, some hackers are attempting to infect the camera itself in hopes of getting inside the network to cause trouble. Just like with the SmartTV, security cameras can be hacked and infected with malware. The infection can spread to other connected and in-range devices. This could be devastating for your organization.
If your company relies on a digital security monitoring system, be sure to give it the top-notch security it deserves. The ease and peace of mind offered by anytime access to your security feed are tempting. However, if you’re going to take this approach, you must make sure these endpoints are secured and reserved for your eyes only.
Healthcare Devices
It must be noted that the corporate business world isn’t the only place where IoT devices are dominating. The healthcare sector is evolving, adopting more and more digitized healthcare devices than ever before.
X-ray and MRI machinery are continually becoming digitally connected. Electronic Medical Record (EMR) software is changing the way patient data is stored and shared. Heart-rate monitors and fitness trackers are personal health devices that can connect to networks wherever they go. In fact, most healthcare environments have a 10-1 ratio of IoT devices to computers – meaning that IoT attacks are much more likely in the healthcare setting.
Even worse? Many of these healthcare IoT devices run on old or outdated versions of Windows, making them more vulnerable to new and worsening cyber threats. With outdated operating systems, patches and loophole fixes are harder to implement. This means that critical healthcare devices like MRI machines can be subject to widespread attacks like the 2017 WannaCry hack.
For healthcare professionals, ensuring that devices are secure can be a huge challenge. Especially when considering the heavy weight of patient confidentiality and regulatory standards. Healthcare professionals and their IT teams must be consistent and diligent in their efforts to control access and secure IoT devices.
Unauthorized Network Bridge
Take a second to think about the day-to-day operations in your office. You likely use a printer semi-regularly and its likely set up wirelessly over Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. This is a no-brainer for most modern businesses as it makes it more convenient for anyone on the team to access printing services anytime, without requiring a physical connection to the network.
However, as is the trend with IoT, often it’s the things that make life easier that also open your organization to increased risk. Printers are especially dangerous because many larger entities have a huge number of printers wirelessly connected to the broader network. This leaves a massive security hole and offers the potential for any in-range device to use the printer as an unauthorized network bridge.
So, while your company printers may seem like the last thing you need to worry about in terms of network security, think again. To patch these security holes, make sure that each printer in your office is a monitored and secured device among all other network devices.
Protection of Gas Distribution Facilities
Okay. We’ve covered business and healthcare, but what about the increasing digital transformation in the manufacturing and utility industries? Industrial IoT is continuing to drive efficiency in these sectors. Using connected devices like sensors, valves, and other control mechanisms make remote control easier and optimize production.
However, these devices are very enticing to hackers and cybercriminals. And, given the nature of the work these industries do, the potential impacts from hacks on connected devices can be devastating and even fatal. Manufacturing and utilities do not make IoT security a priority and these devices were not designed with security in mind. As such, the manufacturing devices are difficult to patch and update, meaning even greater risk for the organizations using them daily.
In order for manufacturing professionals to prevent deadly hacks or mischief, these IoT devices must be secured at all endpoints. A good rule of thumb for manufacturers is to give every device a second glance. In fast-moving industries that have been subject to wide-spread digitization, analyzing all the technology in use and making sure everything is adequately secured is critical to larger network security.
Rogue Network Stealing Credentials
Finally, the modern office is subject to one wide-reaching risk. Most organizations these days – especially those with public spaces – are equipped with multiple wireless access points for user connection. Additionally, many modern devices are designed to connect automatically to the closest and best available network. Further, when faced with choosing a network, wireless users will usually opt for the strongest looking connection.
Sophisticated cybercriminals have learned to exploit this wireless activity by creating phony wireless access points in hopes of duping users into connecting. This offers hackers the opportunity to invade connected devices and get their hands on confidential data and user credentials.
If your organization offers access to a wireless network, be wary of this potential spoofing tactic. Do whatever you can to secure your wireless network and create a guest connection for visiting users who don’t need access to your larger network. Be open and honest with your team about wireless connection protocols and train them to be vigilant when connecting to wireless networks on business devices.
Navigating the New Cyber Landscape: Security for Today’s Digital Environments
There’s no denying this is a lot of information to take in and it represents some critical security concerns for you to consider. We get it! All this information can be seriously overwhelming, especially with new devices and tech developments happening at lightning speed. However, as challenging as it may seem, it doesn’t have to be impossible or daunting.
As mentioned, the key is keeping a detailed inventory of what devices are connected to your network and maintaining a record of all access points. Additionally, your organization should have key policies and procedures in place regarding network security and access control management.
Clearly posted expectations for employees is imperative, as is ongoing training for them. Employees must be reminded often of the importance of maintaining the security of your organization. Stay on top of employee training. Make sure your team understands the significance of securing the company network at all endpoints. It’s especially important to provide training for your staff in higher positions, such as managers, supervisors … even those in the boardroom.
Make it a priority to develop a plan for staying on top of the continually evolving digital business climate. Being proactive and consistent will help ensure that your organization stays alert and up-to-date when it comes to risk management.
Finally, when in doubt, reach out to a managed IT services partner for consultation and guidance about navigating the IoT landscape and managing risks with efficiency and focus. IT security concerns can seem much less daunting with the experience and expertise of an industry professional in your corner.
by Felicien | Jul 6, 2018 | Education
Customer Data Safe Even as CareSync Shuts Down, Laying Off All Employees
It is the end of the road for a promising tech startup CareSync following the discontinuation of the company’s operations on June 21, 2018. As cybersecurity enthusiasts, what lessons can we learn from the way CareSync is handling customer data at this far end of its 7 years of service?
What happened?
It all started with the departure of CareSync founder and CEO Travis Bond that came without warning. Several rounds of layoffs followed – the company was downsizing to avert an imminent course to its deathbed, but this yielded little success.
A ray of hope
In an attempt to salvage the sinking company and restore its financial footing, the interim CEO Bob Crutchfield agreed to sell the tech firm to Shipt, a grocery delivery company. Shipt founder Bill Smith and his family would buy and fully own the company. It looked like the deal would move forward in what he (Smith) termed as a “very significant financial commitment to the company… to build this company for the long-term.”
Failed rescue mission
This deal flopped, according to information from both CareSync and Shipt. “After 7 years of working tirelessly and closely with our stakeholders to deliver best-in-class chronic care management products and services, CareSync has discontinued its business operations and closed its facilities in Tampa and Wauchula, Florida.” This statement was posted on the CareSync.com website June 21, 2018.
Statements from CareSync revealed that its leadership had made their best efforts to find strategic partners and raise the much-needed extra capital that would help keep the tech startup on is feet. However, these attempts were ultimately unsuccessful – partly due to time constraints, according to the CEO of Shipt.
“A syndicate of investors, including the Smith Family Office, had intentions to acquire CareSync,” Smith said in a statement. “We were hopeful that our support could save the company and would ultimately lead to a successful outcome for everyone involved, including the employees.” He added this: “Unfortunately, the company ran out of time.”
CareSync chief operating officer Joy Powell confirmed this unfortunate turn of events in a final statement that accompanied the filing of a Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification to the state of Florida. The contents of this notification indicated that all of the company’s 292 employees were being laid off as of Thursday, June 21.
With these announcements, the IT operations that had helped enterprise customers with the management of their medical records for seven years came to a screeching halt. CareSync, which became operational sometime in 2011 and combined technology with data and other services to improve people’s care coordination, would no longer serve these patients who had depended on them.
The Florida-based healthcare technology provider ended all business operations and closed its doors to a huge community of customers following the unsuccessful attempt at selling the company as a last-minute resort to prevent it from shutting down.
The company’s main phone line would then stop accepting calls, with a prerecorded message explaining the situation to callers. In the process, the defunct tech firm provided its former Medicare clients with an online platform to help them keep all of their medical records, appointments, and prescription schedules in a single place. Its message also indicated that the patient portal would remain operational for some time.
Not everything is lost
If CareSync’s assurance is anything to go by, the consumer data in its possession will remain safely protected within its servers and accessible to its members and customers. Apparently, the tech company had taken the necessary security measures around this data to keep it safe even as the company came to a complete shutdown and ceased all operations.
People have questions though – and justly so.
What will happen over the coming weeks or months? Who will be managing the patient portal that has remained accessible to customers and shareholders?
Will it remain secure for the long run? Does CareSync intend to invest additional resources in their cybersecurity software now that their IT solutions are no longer available? And what guarantees do the people whose data is at stake have?
Now that this closure is public knowledge, could hackers take advantage of the situation and start targeting the data stored in this patient portal?
These are all tough questions and it may be difficult to get the answers that consumers are looking for. No one wants to think that their personal information and medical history is out there in cyberspace where criminals could steal it. Unfortunately, CareSync has run out of money and may not be able to provide the excellent cyber security protection that their former customers deserve.
Conclusion
When choosing any tech solutions provider, be sure to do your homework to be certain that you are working with the right people. What is their technology like? What is their track record? What measures are they putting in place to ensure the complete safety of your data? Only after you get the right answers to these concerns should you allow yourself to settle for their service – but not a minute before.
by Felicien | Jul 6, 2018 | Education
The Cloud is a type of advanced technology that allows information or data to be stored online. In the healthcare industry, patient records and data are stored in the Cloud because it’s much more convenient; data is accessible from any device or location.
This information may include clinical information, patient diagnoses, test results, pharmacy information, patient billing, and much more. Obviously, there are a number of advantages to using the Cloud, but also many challenges. For instance, having millions of patient records in the Cloud poses a threat from hackers. They’ve become quite good at infiltrating even the best Internet security programs. It’s scary to think that cyber thieves have the healthcare information of any individual, much fewer millions of people. Therefore, issues of security are of paramount consideration when healthcare organizations consider the Cloud as a way of managing the data of their patients and clients.
Any good innovation has its pros and cons. This article will outline a few advantages and issues with using Cloud Computing in the healthcare industry.
Advantages of Cloud Computing to the Health Care Industry
Collaboration
The Cloud makes it possible for people to share information in real-time. Sometimes doctors do consultations with specialists on the phone. But imagine this, using the Cloud, a panel of neurosurgeons can have discussions in real-time from wherever they are! Information is shared instantly. Everyone can voice their opinion. Important topics can be discussed just as if the whole panel of doctors was gathered in a briefing room at a hospital. This is truly incredible when you think about it. This saves time and money, plus it allows specialists to come together and talk about important research or a specific medical case that has baffled doctors. This method is much more effective and convenient than exchanging emails or talking on the phone.
Another scenario is where a patient needs prescription drugs from a store but cannot get them without a doctor giving out the prescription. The pharmacist can dispatch patient information using cloud features and a patient can get the prescription without having to go to their doctor. This will clearly save time and money for everyone.
Speed
Most of the Cloud-based tools can be upgraded and improved quickly. It doesn’t cost a lot to do this. While the system is upgrading, there is minimum interruption; you might not even notice it. Important information such as a patient’s recent test results can be given priority to gain even faster access.
Mobility
The fact that cloud tools can be installed on any smart device ensures that anytime anywhere, a healthcare provider can dispatch information about a patient. In the future, doctors will see their patients in a virtual setting that is enabled by Cloud technology. Doctors will be able to stay in touch with their patients. All patient information can be quickly accessed, giving the patient a fast, convenient way to “see the doctor” without having to leave home.
This is possible right now with Cloud technology. Phones and tablets can be used just the same as a computer. The service care provider and staff could also work from any location since they are able to access information in the Cloud. Someday, it may not be necessary for a doctor to have an actual office to work from.
Security and Privacy
As already discussed above, patient data must always be protected by the strongest possible measures. This part of patient care is just as important as saving lives. It must be kept completely secure. The Cloud has many strategies and plans in place that ensure the security of patient data. There are standards set by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). Today’s medical practices must comply with HIPAA regulations. This means that healthcare providers are using the most up-to-date security solutions to guard and protect patient data.
Affordable
Cloud computing providers undertake the task of installing software, as well as its maintenance. Outsourced IT providers typically offer plans that include all upgrades, security, and maintenance so that the healthcare institution and doctors don’t have to worry about spending extra money and time on this. Most healthcare providers simply don’t have the time, expertise, or staff to perform all these tasks on their own. They need an IT specialist who can guarantee that all the big and small issues are addressed on a regular basis. This keeps everything running like clockwork and helps to prevent data breaches.
Cyber thieves are now targeting hospitals and doctors because the data they can steal is so valuable. It can be sold on the Dark Web for a handsome profit.
Wrap Up
Healthcare services are generally geared towards improving service delivery to patients. The technology is now available to give everyone good care at an affordable price. With the Cloud, there are many benefits and a few challenges, the major one being security. However, the Cloud is affordable, fast, efficient, reliable, and secure when managed correctly and this is exactly what the healthcare industry needs today.
by Felicien | Jul 6, 2018 | Education
Should a Business Place the CFO in Charge of IT?
The work of a Chief Financial Officer in a business organization is to manage the finances, record keeping, manage financial risks, prepare financial reports, and give general financial advice. Information and Technology, on the other hand, is the department that is in charge of designing, operating, and maintaining the IT infrastructure of the organization. So where do these two critical departments intertwine in the management of the affairs of a business organization?
Why is it important to separate the two departments?
This question can only be addressed properly by having a quick overview of the functions of the IT department in an organization.
Functions of the IT Department
Some businesses have their IT department run by the CFO because they think that the IT department is more or less a wing of the finance department. This thinking may be derived from years past where companies didn’t have a large IT department and no one really understood the work that IT experts were doing.
That was way before technology took a leap to this current era where IT departments are responsible for services such as storing data, online platforms, website management, social media, and all related functions. This scenario clearly shows that the functions of IT have evolved into a massive effort to keep the company website running smoothly and protect customer and company assets. Since the website is the face of most companies now, this is a crucial aspect of doing business in a global economy.
Connection with the Outside World
Truth be told, most of what we learn and know about a given business organization is the information that can be viewed at websites and other online platforms. The profile of almost all companies is found on their web page. There you will learn things about when it was incorporated and who is in charge of various departments. The addresses of the head office and branches, if any, are there on the website, along with achievements, awards, upcoming events, press releases, and so much more.
Links are there to all social media platforms such as Facebook, YouTube, and Twitter. These assets form an organization’s direct link with their customers. For instance, if a business is portrayed in a bad light by the media, they use their social media platforms to clarify issues so that they can restore the confidence of the different stakeholders and prospective customers. When introducing new products into the market, businesses opt to use social media to launch them. These are all vital tasks that take place every day for most companies.
Storage of Company Data
Long gone are the days when data was stored in large physical files using paper copies of documents. This method came with many disadvantages. Government buildings would frequently run out of storage space. The sheer amount of paper and ink used was massive. Retrieving documents was tricky at best. If someone misfiled an important document, the staff might have to search for days to locate it. Those days are gone with online data storage. Now a company can store enormous amounts of information and retrieve the records almost instantly.
Privacy and Security
With all the good things associated with a modern IT department, certainly, there are a few challenges here and there. Now that all our data is stored online or in the Cloud, it’s available to cyber thieves. Most of them have special hacking skills that can break through the best defenses.
Security breaches can totally cripple a business and bring it to its knees. Information that healthcare organizations store is very sensitive. It can be devastating for any company to undergo a security breach, but healthcare is especially vulnerable.
The IT Department is tasked with the responsibility of ensuring that security breaches don’t happen at all and if they do occur, they are detected as soon as possible. The IT department must be vigilant in protecting a company’s data. It’s a full-time job.
Updates
Technology keeps on evolving to better serve us and this is where the IT department comes in. They consistently stay aware of security threats. They install system upgrades and train the staff on how the new upgrades are applied. They must make sure the company website works properly and all service issues are dealt with right away. If customers can’t shop or perform tasks on your website, then they’ll just go someplace else.
Should the CFO do IT work?
Given the above overview of the functions of an IT department, it is clear that the Chief Financial Officer cannot adequately deliver or even oversee most IT work. The main and only function of a CFO should be overseeing company finances. Of course, they must be consulted if the IT department needs newer equipment, hardware, or software. These expenses can be hard to budget for but they’re very crucial to maintain a thriving online presence.
Wrap Up
The financial transactions of most business organizations nowadays rest with the CFO and his department while the IT department handles servers, computers, internet security and the company’s online presence. Only IT experts are equipped to manage these tasks efficiently. The CFO should be there to facilitate financial assistance and receive reports, but not be involved directly in the IT work. Organizations should ensure that these two departments have their roles distinctly separate and well laid out.
