When you’re starting up a tech business it’s important to think clearly about the technology you will need to make everything run smoothly. This can mean you have significant upfront expenses but, if you plan properly, it will significantly cut your monthly outgoings, which are a bigger concern for most banks and funding bodies. It will also give you the opportunity to integrate your systems properly from the outset, which is considerably cheaper than doing it later when you’re up and running.
So, what are the most important things you will need?
Interfaces
Whether you choose desktop computers or laptops, the way your employees interface with your systems is going to matter. You’ll need to think about the environment in which they will be working, whether or not they will need to work from home or when travelling, and which platforms will best support the software you want to run.
You should also consider how long you’re likely to be able to use your machines for before they need to be replaced, and if there are any upgrade options you could use to extend that time.
The cloud
Even if you choose to base everything on your own servers, using a cloud is a practical option because it means you won’t need to install software separately on every machine. You’ll find it much easier to share files and update the same spreadsheets and databases in real time. It will also make remote working more straightforward.
ERP
When you’re running a business there’s always a lot to focus on and it’s easy to become overwhelmed, so having enterprise resource planning (ERP) software to take care of day to day tasks is a big help. Installing it at the outset means you can not only plan the rest of your infrastructure around it, you can also plan your time around it, and you can have more time free at a stage when it really matters.
Security
Identifying your security needs at the outset also makes integration easier, as well as making sure that there is no weak point at which your system can be infiltrated. It should take into account software, hardware and staff training, because unless every member of staff with access understands what’s required and appreciates basics like the importance of strong passwords, there will always be vulnerabilities.
Server rooms
If you’re setting up a business that will need a lot of computing power, or if you’re at a later stage and are seeing your business expand in this way, it’s well worth considering a server room build. A well managed server room can provide a lot of security for your systems and ensure that everything is physically integrated through a single location so that you can quickly identify any problems.
In a modern technology business, a single fault can cause problems all the way through your systems, so having a well planned system from the outset is essential. It lets you map out your key structures and dependencies in a way you’ll always be able to keep track of, and puts you firmly in control.