Key Ways Outdated Hardware Can
Really Harm Your Business
When you run a business, time and money are your most valuable resources. Operating outdated tech drains both. If you’re trying to justify using legacy hardware, make sure you understand what’s at risk – and what solutions are available to help you change course.
The Older the Hardware, the Harder it is to Update
Your hardware is really only as safe as its most recent software update. That goes for operating systems as well as any apps you use.
The problem is, outdated devices can get to the point they no longer update.
The problem is, outdated devices can get to the point they no longer update. Whether they run out of storage space or slow up to the point they can no longer run certain programs, every missed security patch can open your company up to increasing cyber threats.
Without these critical updates, malicious actors have direct access to the most sensitive information you have stored. Can’t get the latest software version? Upgrade your device before hackers uncover your vulnerabilities.
“The problem is, outdated devices can get to the point they no longer update.”
You’ll Have Unjustifiably Costly Repairs
We’ve all been there: the battery on the device you’ve grown so used to operating steadily starts to decline. You’re constantly having to dismiss alarmist messages about how low you’re running on storage space. It’s not long before your machine’s constantly in and out of the shop.
Small improvements a new battery here, an external hard drive there can add up quickly.
Small improvements – a new battery here, an external hard drive there – can add up quickly. Plus, minor improvements only go so far. Since most machines don’t make it easy to extend the life or capacity of critical components like internal hard drives, most repairs are not only expensive, they’re also sunk costs.
Instead of engaging in an accounting nightmare, it’s often more economical to simply invest in a new machine than finance continual repairs.
You’re Likely to Experience Decreased Productivity + Morale
You’d be surprised how much those short, intermittent device glitches add up. Every freeze or lag is valuable time the company can’t get back. In fact, the average employee loses 22 minutes each day on IT-related technology issues, according to Design Rush.
Not only does outdated tech hinder productivity, but it can also lead to decreased morale. Fortunately, the inverse is also true.
On the upside, “having effective solutions for IT issues in place increases job satisfaction — 92% of employees say having technology that helps them do their job efficiently makes them happier at work,” explains workforce and human resource management leader UKG.
Consider Using an Managed Services Provider (MSP) to Improve Your Capabilities
The frequency with which technology changes and advances is dizzying. Keeping up with it and changing out your tech fleet is a full-time job. Luckily, it’s one that can be easily outsourced.
CIO shares that “services delivered by an MSP are delivered by employees located at the client’s locations, or elsewhere. Managed Services Providers like Net at Work can also bundle in hardware, software, or cloud technology as part of their offerings.”
Looking at the projected market growth for MSPs, it’s clear this service is essential for many SMBs. The industry is expected to reach $296.38 billion USD globally by 2023, up from $173.4 billion USD in 2018, based on data from Statistica.
At the end of the day, time and cash are limited resources – no matter how successful your business is. Wasting them on legacy hardware compounds the cost of keeping them running while limiting your output. With the right tech updated at the appropriate intervals, you remove unnecessary obstacles between your current business and its future successes.
