Whatever your IT support budget looks like, it’s what you do with it that counts.
Since the 2019 pandemic, the UK has become a digital-first economy. In response, businesses have undergone digital transformation at a record rate and 74% of organisations now consider it a top priority.
87% of small businesses now have an online presence.
With this in mind, it’s more important than ever to manage your IT support budget in a way that ensures productivity, efficiency and cyber security for your business.
How to plan your IT support budget
Step 1: Align your IT support budget with your business goals
When it comes to planning your budget, it’s important to look ahead and consider not only the changes you want to make imminently, but also potential changes to come.
If there is a real chance for team growth in the upcoming year, plan for associate hardware costs. This growth could also bring along the need for new communication tools like Microsoft Teams. Or perhaps you’re looking to enter new markets with your business which could require new software.
Whatever your business goals, be sure to consider associated tech costs. If you’re struggling to identify any or put a price to a project, speak with your IT provider for guidance with your budget planning.
Step 2: Scrutinise existing expenditure
Before you make any big decisions on your IT support budget, look at what you’re currently spending.
Are you regularly paying for additional IT support not covered by your monthly contract? Maybe you could save money with a more comprehensive level of cover. Or maybe old kit is the issue – if you’re paying out regularly for repairs on old hardware, it may be time to invest in new machines and save money in the long run (not to mention improve business productivity).
So, before you start planning how to spend, take a look at how you can save first.
Step 3: Check your priorities
If you usually just change the date on your IT support budget plan for the year ahead, it’s time to take stock. Priorities always change at some point based on growth, development, and external factors like cyber crime.
Once considered safe from hackers’ radars, small businesses are targeted more than ever these days. Last year, 32% of UK businesses reported at least one cyber attack.
Investing in your cyber security is now a must no matter your size. Whether it’s advancing from off-the-shelf antivirus solutions or ensuring your employees are comprehensively trained in cyber security awareness, it has never been more important to protect your business.
Jupiter IT is so much more than just IT support
At Jupiter, we offer peace of mind. We think outside the box to identify risk, challenge and possibility for your business, and provide solutions based on your needs – not on sales targets.
Like a band of superheroes, our team harnesses specialist skills including an official Cyber Essentials Assessor who will audit your systems with no fee and no obligation.
Fancy one less thing to think about? Give us a call today and let’s see what we can do for your IT.
