stacks_image_3D13A5FD-6925-4CC1-8FB6-F54D0AB5728F

eSolve Solutions, Inc.
eSolve Blog
IT Alternatives For Small Business
Feb. 02, 2009 09:58
Do you have a small business with a few computers and internet access and would like a better way to sharing files and working online? Are you wondering if there an alternative to buying and maintaining your own server that won't "break the bank"?

You should consider utilizing
services that provide software and data storage online (via the Internet).  This option is especially helpful for small businesses that may not want (or be able) to invest in elaborate IT systems.
Most small businesses are unable to afford or setup complex servers.  Instead, they tend to store all their information and applications on individual computers and share information between employees and other businesses via email.  Unfortunately, if one of these computers gets stolen, is corrupted by viruses, or experiences a disk crash, or if the facility experiences a fire or flood, key business information can be permanently lost.  This can be devastating for a business. 

The benefits of using an on-line Internet-based service to host and run key business applications, manage projects, and collaborate with key team members, are numerous and address all of these issues. 

  • Your new software and systems can be available in days, not weeks or months. 
  • The software costs are often lower, since many users share the systems.
  • No technical knowledge is required and no in-house IT staff is needed, saving more costs. 
  • There is also no capital expenditure, since the services are often paid on a monthly or annual basis. 
  • No programming is required and your data can be accessed from anywhere and anytime using a web browser. 
  • Finally, off-site backups and security are handled by the hosting service, as are updates and upgrades.

Does this all sound too good to be true?  It actually can work very well and save your organization time, money, and resources, though it is important to carefully select your software service provider.  Some key issues to consider are:

  • Information security and data availability. 
  • Ensuring that there is an easy way to retain permanent access to your information, without compromise. 
  • Making sure that the software provider is willing to work with you to customize and adapt the systems to suit business needs.  

By taking advantage of the growing number of Internet-based software service providers, small business can operate and build an IT infrastructure similar to a large business, with more flexibility and at a much lower cost than ever before. 

eSolve offers one such solution called
The eSolve Office that can address this need. Contact eSolve Solutions to schedule a free assessment of your work situation and to try out the eSolve Office for yourself. eSolve will help your organization navigate the complex maze of options and pick the best one that is right for your needs. Be sure to also review the presentation provided to the Schenectady Chamber of Commerce discussing low-cost and free web-based tools for your organization.

----------------
Dr. Guy J. Cortesi
Director of Technology and Chief Information Officer
eSolve Solutions, Inc.

stacks_image_AFB111E5-6F8E-4345-9F88-5CF44501139C

eSolve Solutions, Inc. P.O. Box 182 * Latham, NY 12110 * (518) 632-1092 * contact@esolvesolutions.com