Datacom works with businesses of all sizes, right across the country. But, as a Kiwi company that started out with two people, some accounting software and some big ideas, we've got a special affinity for the small and medium business (SMB) that make up 97% of all Kiwi companies and keep this country moving.
We recently asked our GM of SMB Adam Mercer for some insights into the common tech pitfalls he sees that are holding back Kiwi companies:
A 'she'll be right' attitude to IT
A lot of small and medium businesses owners have a ‘she’ll be right’ attitude to IT, but this can create huge risks and inefficiencies. These are tough economic times, and you need to be getting every bit of value out of your IT solutions – you don’t want your business to be left behind.
Out-of-date software and networking equipment
It’s tempting to think, ‘Why would a hacker target my little local business?’ but cybercriminals are more indiscriminate than ever, and their shotgun approach to incursions can easily catch even the smallest organisation. We do see small Kiwi companies still relying on network equipment that is five years and older. That’s a huge risk – and one major cyber-incident could mean the failure of the organisation.
Everyday IT issues distracting senior team members
Who in your business is responsible for sorting out those everyday IT issues? Surprisingly often, it’s a highly paid and overqualified individual who ends up dealing with log-in issues, broken laptops, and onboarding new team members, for instance. Outsourcing these daily issues can have a significant positive impact on the business. It frees up someone to do their own job more effectively and provides the time for the kind of strategic thinking that can take a business to the next level.
