Getting Out of Start-Up Mode: What IT Stack Do You Need?
Growing out of the startup stage is a tricky thing to do for most companies – you can't just upgrade your infrastructure to the next level without considering the implications.
Regarding IT stacks, companies today are spoiled for choices. Shiny new SaaS apps are cropping up every day but considering the fact that an average company uses 185 apps, you should focus on a lean stack that's easily scalable and repeatable.
“An average company uses 185 apps”
Before you jump the gun, consider the following:
What type of projects and operations my business is planning to run?
How technologically proficient is my workforce?
What ROI am I planning to achieve with a new IT stack?
The answers to these questions differ company-wise. Despite the differences, all businesses are tied down by similar issues during the period of rapid growth. An IT stack that helps you scale is one that goes beyond the functionalities of a startup.
Remote collaboration
In 2021, remote collaboration has become the main focus of businesses worldwide. It's not easy to maintain transparent communication when there's no physical interaction. Microsoft Office 365 stack contains SharePoint, OneDrive, and Microsoft Teams that create an intranet, armed with seamless file sharing and feature-rich text and video communication platform. The trinity creates a powerful ecosystem that is conducive to remote work.
Optimized productivity
One major reason behind the success of the O365 stack is its familiarity. Most employees are aware of the Microsoft ecosystem in some ways, which really helps in fast and effective deployment.
The cloud versions of classic office apps like Word, Excel, and PowerPoint give the required flexibility to work from anywhere and on any device, which in turn increases productivity. The recent launch of Windows 365, a portable cloud PC further reiterates how easy it will be to continue using the O365 stack in the future.
Real-time security upgrade
Startups scaling quickly often spread their resources too thin to be able to focus on security alone. However, 43% of cyber-attacks are directed towards small businesses, which brings us back to the importance of having a secure IT infrastructure.
Microsoft's O365 stack is built on the idea of a safe digital workspace for everyone. Windows Defender, along with ATP and MFA provides a comprehensive security layer over your workflow. Microsoft is also one of the few major companies to release regular patches to minimize downtime and data theft.
Scale further with Microsoft Dynamics
One great thing about the Microsoft IT stack is that you get a wide range of plans to choose from as a business. The amount of flexibility is unparalleled, and you can even scale further with Power Apps and Microsoft Dynamics. D365 gives you CRM and ERP to address the growing demands of your business and it natively interacts with O365 for business continuity.
No matter what IT stack you choose for your business, it ultimately boils down to execution.
Here are a couple more resources that may be helpful to you:
About the author:
Tim Tiller, LMSW, President & CEO of MyTek
MyTek is an Arizona-based managed IT services company providing comprehensive IT services to Arizona’s small- to mid-sized businesses. MyTek is led by Tim Tiller, a seasoned IT leader who thrives on creating winning IT solutions that support both IT and business goals.