Proactive IT Management: The 5 Best Ways to Build a Smarter Future
Proactive IT management is no longer a luxury; it’s a necessity for healthcare clinics and growing businesses. As organizations become increasingly dependent on technology, the ability to shift from reactive problem-solving to proactive IT strategies can be the difference between frustration and success. At Stringfellow Technology Group, we specialize in managed IT services designed to […]
How to pick the right MSP for your company
The business IT landscape keeps evolving rapidly. This can make it difficult for business owners to keep up with the latest trends and changes, let alone manage their own IT systems. Fortunately, they can outsource their IT needs to a managed IT services provider (MSP). What is an MSP? An MSP is a company that […]
Investing in new IT? Be careful of these 5 common mistakes
Investing in new IT solutions can boost your team’s productivity, improve your customer service, and fortify your cyber defenses. To maximize the returns you gain from any new IT investment, be careful of these common mistakes. 1. Failing to align new tech with business goals While many advertisers sell new technologies as the ultimate solution […]
Storage drives: HDD and SSD explained
If you’re in the market for a new computer or laptop, you may be given a choice to configure your system with either a hard disk drive (HDD) or a solid state drive (SSD). Both drives store data but work in different ways. In this blog post, we’ll discuss their differences so you can determine […]
Everything you need to know about monitoring employees online
If you’re managing a remote workforce, you may wonder whether your team is doing their jobs or wasting time watching random videos on the internet. Using employee monitoring tools is a good way to keep track of your team’s productivity. But is this practice ethical? Read on to learn more. What is employee monitoring? Employee […]
4 Motivators for Stuck Tech Projects
4 Motivators for Stuck Tech Projects Technical people tend to focus on details. And when it comes to technology consulting there are a lot of details. For example, the minimum system requirements for a server, the firewall ports that are required for an application, the space included in a wireless network. Technical people juggle technical […]
Five Ways Your Team Can Boost Productivity with Azure AD
Everyone wants a more productive team, but with Azure AD you can deliver a lot of time saving benefits without much additional cost or another server. You may not recognize Azure AD as something you use, but if you use Microsoft 365, you’re already in Azure and you’re already using Azure AD. Azure AD is […]
Why monitoring your employees’ online activities is both good and bad
More and more businesses are choosing to monitor their employees’ online behavior, as it’s one way of keeping their data and devices secure. However, there are consequences to monitoring your employees’ activities. For instance, doing so can make them feel like their privacy is being violated, which can affect productivity and morale. Because of this, […]
4 Things to consider before choosing an MSP
Incorporating technology into business operations can be challenging because it’s always evolving. Many companies simply can’t keep up — this is why many of them turn to managed IT services providers (MSPs) for their tech needs. Read on to learn more about them. MSPs defined MSPs are companies composed of specialists from various IT fields. […]
What to watch for when your IT provider is acquired
The IT industry is consolidating at an rapid pace right, especially in the Managed Service Provider (MSP) space. As a buyer we focus on acquisitions that will allow us to provide an enhanced level of services to the Clients and opportunities to the team members we bring on. If you find yourself the Client of […]
Here are 5 mistakes to avoid when investing in IT
Investing in new IT solutions can make your team more productive, ensure compliance with industry regulations, and improve the outputs you deliver to your customers, among other outcomes. But if you really want to maximize the returns you gain from any new tech investments, make sure to avoid these common mistakes. Spending without finding the […]
4 Ways to boost staff efficiency
Technology enables businesses to work remotely, collaborate more efficiently, and manage their time more effectively. But to achieve these benefits, you need to implement technologies that align with your business’s needs. Here are some things to consider. Change office communication To increase teamwork and productivity, set up instant messaging software such as Slack or Microsoft […]
Stringfellow Technology Group acquires CTC Networks
Stringfellow Technology Group (“Stringfellow”), based in Nashville, TN, has acquired CTC Networks (“CTC”) based in Franklin, TN. CTC was founded in 1993 and provides managed technology services to the healthcare, manufacturing, and life science industries. All CTC team members joined Stringfellow on November 1st, 2020. CTC president Jim Marable wanted to provide his customers with […]
Why you should consider SSD over HDD
Computer and laptop buyers today need to make a decision between getting either a solid state drive (SSD) or a hard disk drive (HDD) as a primary storage component for their device. But which one is the better choice? In this article we outline the distinct features of SSD and HDD so you can make […]
How to choose the best MSP
Business owners are increasingly realizing the importance of adopting efficient, flexible, and cost-effective IT systems. But as customers’ expectations rise, IT becomes far too complex and demanding for businesses to manage alone. This is why many companies outsource their IT needs to a managed IT services provider (MSP). MSPs defined MSPs are companies composed of […]
Monitoring your employees online: Is it a good idea?
The question of monitoring your employees’ computers is a tricky one. Some say such a practice is unethical. But it can also be a way to prevent data breaches. Find out the pros and cons of monitoring your employees’ online behavior by reading this blog. And should you decide your business needs employee monitoring, we […]
Now is the time to move to VoIP
[vimeo 415230686 w=384 h=339] The work-from-home shift has expedited the need for businesses to evaluate their technology roadmaps and make adjustments to their technology stack. One area that should be considered improving is the way to handle voice across a phone system. Many offices are still using an in-office PBX which lacks the phone capabilities […]
Technology Costs Should be Variable, Not Fixed
The COVID-19 pandemic has made businesses painfully aware of their fixed operating costs. The largest fixed costs are people, often followed by office space. Some business owners consider technology costs fixed. Outsourcing your technology immediately changes many fixed costs into variable costs that are use-based and positively impact your business efficiency. We already prepped you […]
Don’t Let the Sunk Cost Fallacy Drive your Technology Decisions
[vimeo 410306204 w=384 h=339] Business owners are constantly bombarded with information about fiscal responsibility and how to avoid incurring more expenses than necessary. But sometimes the fear over “losing or spending money” leads many to stick with a decision because they already purchased a product or service, not because it’s the right choice. This is […]
Your Status matters more than ever working from home!
Status is now a communications tool in your office, not something to brag about! What we are talking about is the usage of the Status setting in Teams (or other products) to effectively communicate during the Work From Home (WFH) world we are transitioning to. In the physical workplace we could literally see what someone […]
Trust is crucial in a remote workplace
Patrick Lencioni’s book, The Five Dysfunctions of a Team, clearly shows that Trust is the basis for developing high performing teams. Until this is addressed, it will be difficult for any team to achieve consistent and repeatable results. Unfortunately, some managers attempt to achieve results by imposing various controls on their employees which ultimately reduces […]
What the end of Windows 7 REALLY means
Today marks the last day that Microsoft will provide updates for the Windows 7 operating system. Depending on who you talk to, your computer may burst into flames OR it may continue to work perfectly for the next several years. Regardless of where you fall on the spectrum of that debate, the following three points […]
Do you need a technology phase shift in 2020?
If your business and technology planning are out of sync, it may be time for a technology phase shift. Fortunately technology capability is not cumulative, skipping some steps is allowed! The services-first, app-first approach to technology planning can enable much higher productivity without a huge lag in implementation or capital expenditure. First, let’s review some […]
DIY IT needs to stay at home
The DIY (do it yourself) movement has taken off with the advent of social media. Pinterest runs an entire business off of it! The two biggest drivers of DIY are saving money, and being creative. Neither of these are good reasons to DIY your corporate technology! The number of businesses STILL taking a DIY approach […]
Increase the success of your Microsoft Teams implementation
Microsoft Teams is fast becoming the go-to application for managing communication and information flow within organizations. We wrote HERE about how Teams will be supplanting email for internal communication in the near future. Many organizations don’t plan their technology deployments and this is a big mistake. Just because you can “turn on” Teams and start […]
Shift to managing data, not devices
It is time to shift your focus from managing devices to managing your data. The threat landscape changes quickly but the target remains the same, your data! Data is everywhere, and attempting to secure all the places it can be does not scale. Starting with a “data first” mindset will help secure you in a […]
Three cybersecurity standards most businesses are missing
Cybersecurity has finally been elevated to a “standard” in the business world. A business of ANY size needs to have a cybersecurity as part of their basic business planning checklist. This is especially important for businesses that are in the 50-500 employee size range, as these groups often are utilizing processes, and tools that have […]
MFA is like green beans, you just gotta eat them!
MFA is no longer optional in today’s threat landscape. Over three YEARS ago we started talking to our Clients about utilizing MFA, as passwords are no longer keeping your information safe. The number of IT providers that STILL do not ENFORCE this critical security configuration is very surprising. No one likes to be told what […]
5 Things to avoid when investing in IT
Running a business can be time-consuming, especially if you’re managing staff, looking for growth opportunities, and looking after clients. This leaves you little time to search for an IT system that can benefit your business. Because of this, you may be forced to make an impulsive technology purchase that does more harm than good. To […]
The three illusions executives have about internal IT versus outsourcing
The first step to improve your business productivity is to understand the three illusions executives have about internal IT versus outsourcing. These illusions are reinforced by unsophisticated technology providers, vendors what want you to use their (on-premise) products, and internal IT’s need to stay employed. The illusion of control What is the first thing we […]
Boost the privacy of your iPhone’s texts
If you’re an iPhone user who’s always on the go, you may be texting sensitive information on a daily basis. One small mistake could have a negative impact on friends, family, or your business. To ensure that doesn’t happen, here are three easy steps to keep your iPhone text messages private. Turn off message previews […]
Defining HDD and SSD
Buyers used to have a limited choice for what kind of storage they got with their laptop or desktop PCs. With the invention of the solid state drive (SSD), you can now choose to configure your system with either the traditional hard disk drive (HDD), SSD, or in some cases both. So what’s the better […]
Netflix outsources their IT, what is your excuse?
Netflix has changed the way we consume video content, and grown into a streaming giant. A key to their success was knowing what parts of the business to outsource, and which ones to keep in house. Starting in 2008 they shifted their infrastructure over to a partner, and unplugged their last corporate datacenter in 2016. […]
Change old modes of thinking when migrating to the cloud
Not every business owner who migrates to the cloud achieves great results. As much as the service is touted with words like “freedom,” “productivity,” and “collaboration,” realizing the full benefits of the cloud is not a given. So if you’re thinking about transitioning to the cloud, how can you ensure you optimize the technology for […]
Know before you grow, have a Strategic Technology Roadmap!
Congratulations, you are part of a growing business that is about to make an acquisition! All the financials are thoroughly reviewed, corporate culture is synergistic, and everyone is excited. Did anyone do a technology capacity and alignment review? Nah, we will let the “IT folks” figure that out later, no big deal….except that it is. This […]
Does your business strategy take technology consolidation into account?
Large technology companies are masters of technology consolidation, think Microsoft, Salesforce, and Apple. They watch new technologies emerge from other groups, and then buy or replicate that functionality. Over time, all the DIFFERENT technologies you need to accomplish a goal now show up under a single integrated application from a vendor. Your business strategy needs […]
Three ways you should STOP using email
Email is the defacto communication standard in business today. This is interesting considering the first email sent was in 1971, and the fax machine has come and gone since that time. Email continues to be useful in the business environment, BUT it time to consider alternatives for many scenarios. Here are three ways you should […]
Lower your data center bills
Many business owners tend to ignore the server room or pretend that it doesn’t exist. But this won’t change the fact that it can wreak havoc on your electric bills. Before you suffer, read this article to lower your energy bills. Perform an energy audit There’s a good chance your IT staff has never thought […]
Boost office productivity with technology
Successful businesses make technology work for them, not the other way round. When used correctly, technology can make every task much faster to execute. So, if you’re looking to increase staff efficiency, consider the following methods to implement technology into your day-to-day business operations. Change office communication To increase efficiency, set up instant messaging software […]
Moving to an App-based delivery model
If what physical device you are using determines what applications and services you have access to, it’s time to reevaluate your technology setup! It still surprises me at the number of organizations still dependent on VPN, local file shares, and legacy applications. The “cloud” has become a common solution to many technology issues, but the […]
Should you monitor your employees online?
There are a lot of pros and cons when it comes to monitoring your employees online. We’ve put together an honest and transparent list of arguments for and against this practice. And if you decide it is something you want to pursue, we’ve provided some tips for a smooth implementation process. The case for monitoring […]
Do you still think the world is flat?
Digital natives will not hang around long with a company that still things the world is flat! This shift of mentality is real and happening now. Make sure that you are keeping an open mind about how technology can improve your productivity, profits, and results. If you agree with any of the following statements about […]
How to avoid technical debt
Debt refers to the state of owing something, usually money, to another party in the future. Technical debt is when you “borrow” from your company’s FUTURE PRODUCTIVITY by not making the proper investments TODAY. The justification is usually based on not having the actual financial capacity to invest in your business technology. This leads to […]
Goldilocks and the right level of technology involvement
Delegating is a key driver for growth and scalability in your business. You can’t do it all! Delegation does not remove responsibility, so you still need some understanding. Many executives and business owners struggle with the right “level” of understanding of technology. You don’t need to be an expert, but ABDICATION differs greatly from DELEGATION […]
Playing the long game in business
[vimeo 314332980 w=384 h=339] There is a time limit in sporting events is because there has to be a loser! Don’t put a time limit on your business relationships, play the long game. Three advantages of playing the long game with your business relationships: Allows for investments in improving the overall relationship…this can often take […]
Technology is NOT always the answer!
[vimeo 313262571 w=384 h=339] Technology is NOT always the answer to your business needs or issues. In the video we discuss four common areas where technology is not the answer. Wrong people Lack of Training Product or Service that is on the decline Broken Processes
110% client retention exists…here’s how!
Client retention is an important metric for any business, especially those with a high customer acquisition cost (CAC). The old saying it’s always easier to keep a client you have than to go and find a new one is true! What if you could plan on keeping all your (profitable) Clients and getting them to […]
It is 2019, and you are still talking about uptime?
First, no technology platform provides 100% uptime, period. Technology is too complex for that level of reliability. The car has been around for about 120 years, and they crash every day, albeit with a better survival rate. This is similar to technology in general. The crashes still occur but with less impact and a much […]
Planes, Trains, and Automobiles…how do you run your technology?
Do you run your technology like a plane, train, or automobile? All three will get you from point A to point B but in different ways. We can also apply this concept to how you run your technology. Let’s assume you have decided where you want to go, now let’s review how we are going […]
6 Tips to keep your Mac computer safe
If you’re a Mac user, data privacy and security should be your #1 priority. Without the right security measures, you’re inviting cybercriminals to steal your critical data. Are you willing to take the risk? Secure your computer and fortify your defenses with these six tips. The basics First, let’s start with the basics and head […]