Article 4 IT Challenges Facing Small and Medium Business

There is no question that small and medium businesses (SMBs) face unique challenges when it comes to implementing and managing IT infrastructure. With overall IT spending set to reach $2.65 trillion by 2020, it is imperative that businesses allocate their technology budgets wisely.

For some organizations, the obstacles may be a lack of capital to acquire the proper applications and equipment. For others, the changing technology landscape may make them hesitant to act.

Let’s take a look at some of the challenges faced by SMBs when it comes to their technology.

1. Managing Costs

Managing costs are typically the top challenge when it comes to IT for SMBs. Some businesses, especially those on the smaller end of the scale, are frequently unable to invest in an on-premises technology infrastructure to support their needs.

Sadly, 55% of SMBs feel that their current technology hinders their ability to adopt new technology. And without the resources to add a fully integrated IT environment, many SMBs are left to source their own technology needs.

This is a driving factor behind the increasing adoption of cloud computing. With a variety of services available over an internet connection, companies can purchase computing power and services on a subscription basis, negating the need to purchase and maintain expensive equipment.

Cloud-based application suites such as Office 365 offer access to a full slate of productivity applications for an affordable monthly cost, without the need for on-site servers to run them. Without the costs of acquiring and managing hardware to worry about, SMBs are finding cloud services an effective strategy for reducing expenditures.

2. Security Technology for Small Businesses

Security is another top of mind concern for most businesses. Not only are security breaches costly and damaging, but businesses in regulated industries must remain compliant with all applicable requirements.

Depending on the nature of your business, cloud computing may not seem like be the most secure option. However, many managed services IT firms offer cloud hosting that is fully compliant and more secure than a private on-site network.

Besides hosting, other managed services like monitoring, break/fix and support can also protect small business technology from the unexpected.

3. Lack of an IT Knowledge Base

Some companies simply don’t have the financial resources to put a dedicated IT team in place. Despite this, there are options for companies with a limited budget.

Managed IT service providers frequently offer IT support and staffing services, on an ongoing or project basis, to provide the necessary knowledge base.

Additionally, cloud services can mitigate the need for an in-house IT staff. Depending on the size of your organization, custom service packages can provide the computing power you need without complicated setup or maintenance.

4. Dealing With Rapid Changes

Finally, due to the rapid pace with which technology is evolving, many SMBs simply become paralyzed with inaction.

Other challenges include dealing with system and application compatibility issues and replacing or upgrading equipment, all of which are exacerbated by technology’s rapid rate of change.

Partnering with a managed IT services company such as Insight can help SMBs tackle all of these challenges with solutions designed to help organizations grow through simplified and customized technology management. We'll help you conquer technology challenges.