Things to think about in 2024

Hello, Happy New Year, and welcome to 2024 from all of us here at Lucid Towers. With the new year underway, let’s think about a few things to help you with your IT and Computer Systems throughout 2024.

Use up-to-date computer systems and software

Using old and unsupported software is a false economy. You’re asking for Cyber Security problems and you will no doubt suffer from productivity problems. 

The basics to cover here are using at least Windows 10 on your computer, ideally Windows 11. If you’re using a Mac (the dark side), then ensure you’re running at least Mac OS version 12, with you ideally using version 14. When it comes to your phones, using at least Android version 11 is a must. If you have a fruit-based phone (Apple), ensure you’re fully up-to-date on version 17.

What computer backups do you have in place?

Do you have a backup of your files and documents in place? Have you tested out the restore of a file, to ensure it’s working as it should, and behaves how you would expect to in a crisis? Have you covered your finance system as part of your overall computer backup strategy? Do you have seven years’ worth of finance-related computer backups for compliance, as an example? All very important things to think about, discuss and test out.

Easy collaboration from any location

It’s 2024. You should be able to work from any location, using pretty much any device. If you’re emailing files to each other, or you have to go into the office because that’s where the server is – then you need to review your computer systems and processes. Working together as a team should be so easy you don’t even think about it. Using Cloud-based systems that are secure, flexible and always available is the only way should be working in 2024. You’ll find your team are happier, being able to work from anywhere, with ease.

Don’t accept the pain points and ask why is it like this?

It’s all too easy to fall into the trap of accepting ‘this is just the way it is’, even when you know it’s tricky, slow or creates too much admin. Old systems and processes might be holding your business back and holding your people back from fulfilling their potential. You need to be lean, streamlined and able to do your job without any IT obstacles in your way. ‘This is just the way it is’ isn’t acceptable in 2024.

Doing it yourself probably isn’t the best way forward

I can change the spark plugs on my car, and the air filter. Does this make me an expert? No. Does this mean I should mess with the brakes as well? NO! Leaving it to the experts means you’re in good hands, that you’re using the best solutions available to you and there is someone to fall back on, should things go wrong. Trying to do it all yourself is time-consuming, and will only lead to a poor standard of work. I take my car to a trusted garage when it needs to go there because they are experts and I trust them. Do the same with your computer systems.

I hope that gives you and your business food thought at the start of this New Year. 2024 will no doubt bring exciting and challenging times, something we’re looking forward to.

If you wish to discuss any of these ideas, please email hello@lucidcomputersolutions.co.uk or call us on 01527 908646.

Gavin Moorhouse is the owner of Lucid Computer Solutions, based in Redditch, Worcestershire. He is always thinking. Apart from when he’s watching Netflix.