In the private sector abroad, 48% of SMEs (with 10-250 employees) have made remote work a standard practice, while in large companies, the percentage rises to 91% (Politecnico di Milano, 2023). Even in Ticino, many SMEs are adopting smart working to enhance flexibility and productivity.
However, these companies face the challenge of ensuring security and productivity without the internal resources of a large IT department. The need to access data from anywhere and any device has made IT infrastructure a crucial pillar for achieving business success. This shift brings with it new vulnerabilities. In Switzerland, one in three SMEs has already been a victim of a cyber attack, and the risk continues to grow (UFCS, 2024). Additionally, the increasing operational complexity often leaves little room for innovation and strategic improvement, hindering business growth.
The challenges of security and productivity in the digital workplace.
The increasing mobility of the workplace has introduced new challenges, requiring an enhancement of IT tools. Today, employees work from home, on the go, or in the office, often using not only company devices but also personal devices. This scenario increases the risks of:
- Unauthorized access to company data.
- Targeted cyberattacks.
- Lack of updates and protection.
To tackle these challenges, SMEs need centralized management tools like Microsoft Entra for access control and Microsoft Intune for secure device management. However, it is important not to overlook the constant search for innovative solutions to improve business efficiency. Tools like Microsoft Copilot enable increased productivity by automating repetitive tasks, supporting collaboration, and improving workflows. By implementing a strategic IT approach, companies can optimize internal processes, reduce downtime, and make daily operations more efficient, thus ensuring a competitive advantage.
Managed services in the protection and optimization of the work environment.
Managed services are a comprehensive solution that ensures a constantly updated, secure, and high-performing work environment. SMEs no longer need to worry about IT security, as they can focus on the core activities of their business with peace of mind, knowing they have a reliable, continuously monitored infrastructure. With a specialized provider, SMEs can achieve:
- Optimization of IT performance: By improving system responsiveness and efficiency through optimal configurations and continuously updated resources.
- Efficient device management and protection: Solutions are implemented to automatically configure, update, and secure company laptops, smartphones, and tablets, no matter where they are located.
- Continuous support and proactive updates: Downtime is reduced through constant monitoring and automatic updates of the operating system and applications.
- Data protection, backup, and recovery: Through centralized management of business identities and access, unauthorized intrusions are prevented. Additionally, implementing secure backup strategies ensures data loss prevention and enables rapid recovery.
- Scalability and flexibility: Tailored solutions that grow with the business, adapting to evolving needs.
- Better forecasting of operational costs: Eliminating the burdens associated with internal IT management, turning unforeseen expenses into predictable and optimized costs.
The specific benefits for Ticino SMEs.
The competition for SMEs is becoming increasingly fierce, and providing employees with efficient and secure tools to work at their best is not only a great way to optimize performance but also helps attract new talent to be considered as business assets. Here are some concrete advantages of relying on managed services to manage the workplace environment:
- Greater productivity and employee satisfaction: With some adjustments, workflows can be optimized, tasks can be automated, and collaboration can be improved. When work is made easier, turnover decreases, and employees become more productive.
- Greater flexibility and secure smart working: Employees can securely access company systems from anywhere, ensuring operational continuity without technical difficulties, all while maintaining full security.
- A modern company attracts talent: the best professionals seek efficient, secure, and technologically advanced work environments. Offering cutting-edge tools and streamlined processes makes the company more attractive and helps retain qualified individuals.
How can 4IT Solutions support your SME?
4IT Solutions is a partner with deep knowledge of the local market and the needs of businesses in the area. It offers a tailored managed service for Ticino SMEs, ensuring a modern, secure, and efficient working environment. It supports companies in optimizing their IT infrastructure, ensuring it remains up-to-date and aligned with market best practices.
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