I’m amazed it’s already the middle of July, but since I’m always the optimist, I know that I still have half a year to meet my business goals for Aptica LLC. I know for sure that I can’t lose any productivity, so I will inventory my assets to be sure I’m set for the next six months. Since your IT system is one of your most valuable business assets, here are some tips to help you inventory your computer network.

Prevent Information Theft

Go over your list of every person (e.g. family, employees) who has access to your company software. Be sure that list is up to date, with no lingering names of employees who have moved on. Also, a check of your system’s logs will let you know who has downloaded and used any unauthorized software. This is very important.

Prevent Equipment Theft

A network management system will automatically detect every single piece of equipment and software that is connected to your system. It will also indicate which items are not working properly, which items may need to be replaced, and which items have mysteriously disappeared. Review this regularly to prevent workplace theft.

Licensing Agreements

Who in your office keeps track of your licensing agreements for all your software? Insufficient or incorrect licensing can cost you usage fees and fines, or worse, you can end up paying for duplicating software that you already have–an unnecessary expense. Licensing agreements are a real thing that someone should be watching.

System Upgrades

Outdated equipment and software can cost your company time, money, and resources. Downtime and slow response times are two of the biggest time killers for your business. Who in your company keeps up with the newest technology that can keep your business systems running as smoothly and efficiently as possible?

If all this sounds complicated and time-consuming—it sure can be. Business has evolved to the point where real expertise is necessary to keep even the most basic computer system for even a simple business protected and productive. If you are not prepared to do this IT system inventory, give us a call at Aptica. We are happy to answer questions and it’s our mission to keep our clients absolutely protected and productive. Jason Newburg, owner. 260.243.5100, ext. 2001.

Jason Newburg, 260.243.5100, ext 2001, is the founder and owner of Aptica LLC. This IT support and management company has been serving small to medium sized businesses for 15 years in the area that includes Angola, South Bend, and Fort Wayne, IN and Battle Creek, MI.