Techcess: embracing technology and IT support for success in your business

Welcome to the latest episode of Techcess, your go-to podcast for all things IT and cybersecurity. In this episode, we'll be discussing the critical considerations when contemplating a switch in IT support providers in 2024. Scroll down to get your free copy of our Buyer's Guide, new for 2024!Is it time to change your IT provider in 2024?Hi and welcome to the Techcess podcast. I'm Mark Riddell and in this episode we're going to be discussing the challenges businesses face when selecting an IT company, drawing parallels to buying a car and emphasising the need for a structured approach. I'll also be sharing the importance of aligning IT strategy with business objectives and the potential benefits of a comanaged IT environment. If you want some insights into the initial 90 days with a new IT provider, the significance of responsive and effective support, and need to know when you should be considering a change in your IT support provider, this episode is a must-listen. So, sit back, hit that play button, and let's dive into this insightful discussion on navigating the landscape of IT support providers.Check out our complete guide to buying IT services in 2024. Psst! Want to get more 'Techcess' in your business?Get more valuable technology insights from m3's blog pages,&nbsp;here.Mark Riddell's technology podcast "Techcess" is an&nbsp;m3 Networks&nbsp;production.&nbsp;Mark and the team&nbsp;have created this podcast to help you and their clients understand how technology can help them in their industry and business, including helping them with cyber security solutions.&nbsp;To find out more about Mark Riddell and the rest of the m3 team, visit them&nbsp;here&nbsp;and follow them on&nbsp;Linkedin.If you want to get in touch about technology or cyber security, just address an email directly at Mark&nbsp;here.&nbsp;He'll be very happy to hear from you.Thanks for listening!&nbsp;If you enjoy this episode, make sure you&nbsp;follow the podcast via your favourite app.Fancy giving the&nbsp;Techcess&nbsp;technology podcast a review and rating? Click here -&nbsp;https://www.techcesspodcast.com&nbsp; &nbsp; Techcess is a podcast from&nbsp;<a...

Solving the #1 Cyber security problem in your business... Welcome to Techcess, the podcast dedicated to helping businesses navigate the world of IT and cyber security. In today's episode, titled "The Number 1 Problem Your Business Has with Cyber security and why it's not just an IT problem," we're going to reveal the most common issue plaguing businesses. No spoilers yet, but did you know that 57% of your staff are writing down passwords on sticky notes? This might give you a clue what we're going to be talking about in this episode. We'll share eye-opening statistics and discuss the consequences of weak passwords, from data breaches to insider threats. But fear not, we also have the solution! And once you've heard it, you'll be able to scroll down to the link to book your chat with me and get it solved in your business! Also in this week's episode, Annie's Tech Update, our intriguing Intel of the week, and get ready for more tech themed hilarity with Gigglebytes! Hi and welcome to the Techcess podcast. I'm Mark Riddell and in this episode I'm talking to you about the number one problem I can guarantee your business is suffering with its cyber security! The problem with weak passwords I take no pleasure with sharing troubling statistics, but I do feel it's necessary when it comes to hosting a podcast educating people about the dangers their business faces when they're not on top of their cyber security! I can pretty much guarantee your employees are using easily guessed passwords and writing down those passwords on sticky notes. Another common practice in most businesses is reusing passwords across personal and work accounts. And this poses a grave security risk. I'm here to tell you about the consequences of insecure passwords, from costly data breaches to account takeovers and insider threats. Solving the Problem My goal with this Techcess podcast episode is to suggest two primary solutions for businesses to address the issue of weak passwords. Firstly, implementing strong password policies and providing end-user security training can create awareness and enforce good password practices. However, policies alone are not enough. Your businesses needs to provide employees with tools and technology to simplify password management. And that's where we come in, with this episode. What you'll learn from listening to this episode of Techcess Employees writing down passwords on sticky notes and using weak and easily guessed passwords Statistics demonstrating the extent of the problem, such as storing credentials on personal devices and reusing passwords Risks associated with breach passwords, including data breaches and cybercrime Getting the basics of cybersecurity right Policies and end user security training on creating strong passwords Limitations of policies alone and the importance of providing better tools The drawbacks of using web browsers as password managers and the need for a decent business password manager - with our recommendation! Timestamped Summary: 00:01 Solve business problem, secure passwords, episode details. 03:58 Password managers solve cybersecurity problems in businesses. 09:03 Secure business password manager solves cybersecurity problems. 12:12 Secure password manager separates personal and business. 13:22 Most secure password manager with easy setup. Book chat below! Book a free chat with Mark! The giveaway guide! Have you checked out our episode offering a complete guide to buying IT services...

When It's Time to Move On: Signs Your Business Has Outgrown Your IT Provider Welcome to another episode of Techcess, the podcast that helps you figure out the technology opportunities in your business and find the right IT solutions for you. In today's episode, we're covering a topic many businesses grapple with: knowing when it's time to part ways with your current IT provider. We understand just how vital the relationship with your IT company is, as they have access to critical aspects of your business, from security and compliance to managing downtime and even your internet connection. So, how do you know when it's time to make a change? That's what I'm here for. Hi and welcome to the Techcess podcast. I'm Mark Riddell and in this episode I'm talking to you about the importance of having a strong relationship with your IT company, as they have access to critical aspects of your business, including security, compliance, and data. I'll be explaining why you need to choose the right IT provider for your specific business and as always, you can download our free buyer's guide for selecting one. However, if you currently have an IT provider and suspect they may not be the best fit for your business, the episode provides five signs that it may be time to find a new provider. What you'll learn from listening to this episode of Techcess The importance of a good relationship with your IT company Account Management: Lack of this function in many IT companies Slow Response Time: Complaints from businesses about delayed and ineffective communication Outgrowing Current IT Provider: Need for a more scalable and capable IT support Lack of Proactive Support: Reactive approach to IT issues instead of proactive monitoring and prevention Timestamped Summary: 00:01:49 Why you need to choose the right IT company. 00:04:15 IT account management solves a lot of problems. 00:07:34 Outgrown current IT provider due to growth? 00:14:13 The key question to ask to find out if you've the right IT provider. 00:16:49 Find the best IT company for you. Book a free chat with Mark! The giveaway guide! Have you checked out our episode offering a complete guide to buying IT services in 2023 yet? It comes with a free downloadable buyer's guide. Check it out here. Want to get more 'Techcess' in your business? Get more valuable technology insights from m3's blog pages, here. Mark Riddell's technology podcast "Techcess" is an m3 Networks production. Mark and the team have created this podcast to help you and their clients understand how technology can help them in their industry and business, including helping them with cyber security solutions. To find out more about Mark Riddell and the rest of the m3 team, visit them here and follow them on Linkedin. If you want to get in

The Buyer's Guide: Questions to ask to ensure the best IT support for your business In today's episode, we're taking a meta look at the world of IT support and discussing the important questions you need to ask before selecting a potential new IT supplier. Whether you're a small business looking to upgrade from your local one-person provider or a growing company in need of more robust IT support, this episode is for you. We'll discuss the crucial factors to consider when choosing an IT supplier, such as accreditations, experience, and industry knowledge. Keep scrolling if you want to get your free copy of the episode's related Buyer's Guide download! If you're new, welcome to Techcess, the show that helps you get the best out of the technology in your business. I'm Mark Riddell, host of the Techcess podcast. With the IT support industry lacking regulation, it's crucial to do your research and not fall for a sales pitch. So in this episode I'm aiming to provide you with some serious insight and a list of questions to help evaluate whether an IT company is the right fit for your business. From response times to proactive measures, we'll cover it all. So, if you're ready to do some shopping for a new IT support provider, or simply want to confirm whether your current one is ticking all the boxes to be a perfect partner for your company's needs, make sure you listen in to this insightful episode of Techcess! Addressing Common Challenges around understanding IT roles and responsibilities In this episode we're giving you a sneaky piece of insight into the challenges businesses face when managing technical roles they may not fully understand. In particular, we talk about the quite common issue of IT employees that are working in house within a company appearing busy without tangible outcomes, stressing the need to ascertain the workload of an IT team. The episode offers insights into assessing the size of an IT team based on the number of computers and staff to determine if it aligns with the business's needs. Balancing IT support and business resilience The episode also sheds light on the often-overlooked aspect of IT support until a problem arises. It emphasises the importance of IT professionals staying up to date with industry knowledge and accessing best practices. Mentioning alternative solutions like moving data to the Cloud for better backup and accessibility, the episode highlights the significance of making wise investments in IT infrastructure to ensure business resiliency. What you'll learn from listening to this episode of Techcess The important considerations and questions to ask when choosing a new IT supplier. The need to research and evaluate potential suppliers to ensure they have the right accreditations and experience. A list of questions to help determine if an IT company is the right fit, covering topics such as response time, proactive measures, account management, and adapting to changing business needs. The importance of being skeptical, asking difficult questions, and staying informed about certifications and qualifications. The partnership between a business and its IT supplier and the benefits of outsourcing IT support. Download the free guide on buying IT services so you can become more knowledgeable in the process. Timestamped Summary: [00:00:00] Outsourced IT support: questions to ask. [00:05:01] Move data to Cloud for business resilience. [00:06:57] Old technology hinders...

How do HR considerations impact on your business when you have staff using technology remotely? Welcome to another episode of Techcess podcast. Hi, this is Mark Riddell and in this week's episode, we'll be discussing the implications you're having to face in terms of HR if you're running a business that uses technology remotely! Getting your head around those hr obligations in this new remote tech world As businesses increasingly adopt remote working arrangements and rely on technology for seamless operations, it's crucial to understand the HR obligations that come with this shift. HR consultant Sandie Holmes joins Mark Riddell to shed light on the essential considerations when employing staff who work from home. With over 140 businesses relying on their expertise, Sandie emphasises the importance of having an HR expert by your side to guide you through the complexities of employee engagement, contracts, and compliance. Getting your staff set up The discussion covers the importance of equipping remote workers with the necessary tools and supplies. Sandie stresses the need to provide appropriate desks, chairs, monitors, and other office essentials to promote productivity and prevent physical discomfort or injuries. Employers are reminded of their legal obligation to conduct display screen equipment risk assessments, both in the office and remote working environments, to ensure the correct positioning of monitors and the ergonomic setup of workstations. And we've added a freebie to this episode to ensure you find that easy. Download Sandie's free risk assessment Document here Free homeworkers risk assessment What you'll learn from listening to this episode of Techcess Importance of having an HR expert Tailoring contracts and handbooks to fit the business Duty of care towards remote employees Conducting a homeworking risk assessment Ensuring proper equipment and setup at home Communication and engagement with remote employees Alternative to conducting a home visit: using a homeworking risk assessment form Legal requirements for display screen equipment risk assessment Timestamped Summary: 00:00:49 HR expert advice for employers. 00:03:32 Legal duty to ensure safe home office. 00:06:28 Complete a risk assessment for home office. 00:11:47 Ensure camera is on for morning calls. 00:15:33 Bed in background: not ideal for business. 00:17:41 Staff set up can be important for team engagement and collaboration. 00:22:35 Breaks while working at home. Book a free chat with Mark! The giveaway guide! Have you checked out our episode offering a complete guide to buying IT services in 2023 yet? It comes with a free downloadable buyer's guide. Check it out here. Want to get more 'Techcess' in your business? Get more valuable technology insights from m3's blog pages, here. Mark Riddell's technology podcast "Techcess" is an...

We're revealing the top 5 industries our 'delightful' cyber criminals love to target! Hi, this is Mark Riddell, host of the Techcess podcast. We talk about cyber criminals and cyber security on this podcast a lot. But in this episode we're actually going to list the industries most valuable to attack. If you work in any of them, you'll need to send the episode to your boss to listen to, asap! As I recently spoke at a Cyber Lunch and Learn event, a question caught my attention: Do cybercriminals target all businesses equally? The answer is no, and in this episode, we'll explore the industries most vulnerable to cybercrime. However, there's one industry on the list that may not apply to our listeners, yet it's still a shocker given the level of expertise and the value of the data within that industry! But before we dig into the details, let's start with a quick introduction. Despite warnings, cyber security still a massive threat to UK businesses! Cybersecurity is a subject we've covered extensively on this podcast, and for good reason - it's the number one threat facing businesses today. In the midst of a global digital transformation, where technology is advancing and businesses are moving towards the cloud, AI, blockchain, and Web 3.0, the possibilities seem limitless. However, with these advancements come vulnerabilities, and cybercrime is on the rise year after year. In fact, the pandemic and the shift to remote work have only accelerated cyberattacks. In fact, the threat of cyber attacks has increased! With employees working from home or public spaces, securing an IT estate has become more complex than ever. Unfortunately, cybersecurity remains an underinvested area for many businesses—most don't even have a dedicated cybersecurity budget. This podcast aims to shed light on this critical issue and encourage businesses to take proactive measures. Now, it's important to note that cyber criminals don't target only big tech giants and government agencies. Small and medium-sized businesses are equally at risk and often fall victim to cyberattacks. The consequences are not limited to immediate financial loss but can also entail long-term damage to a company's brand, loss of customer trust, potential legal costs, and the high expenses associated with recovery. the stats and facts In this episode I'll be revealing the percentage of cyber attacks that target small businesses, and how many of those businesses that suffer an attack go out of business within six months. The impact may not be immediate, but the implications on cash flow, sales, and customer loyalty can deal a devastating blow. You'll definitely want to listen in as we get into the top five industries most affected by cybercrime in the UK. Whether you're in these industries or not, this episode will provide valuable insights to help you safeguard your business. What you'll learn from listening to this episode of Techcess Does cybercrime affect all industries equally? The significance of cyber security in all businesses. The impact of global digital transformation and technological advancements. The double-edged sword of technology, with limitless possibilities and vulnerabilities. Why we're not mentioning industries least affected by cybercrime! Some statistics around cyberattacks on small businesses. Timestamped Summary: 00:00:00 Top 5 industries affected by cybercrime 00:04:09 Cybersecurity overlooked: Businesses lack budget and awareness. 00:07:38 Cybersecurity: Can you outrun the bear? 00:11:35 Anthem cyberattack: stats and numbers. 00:15:56 Cyberattacks on manufacturing - the impacts. <a...

Small or medium sized business owner? Oh boy do cyber criminals love you! Hi, this is Mark Riddell, host of the Techcess podcast. It's always interesting hearing small business owners claiming they don't need cyber security because they're too small to be a target of cyber criminals. Interestingly, quite the opposite is true. Why cyber criminals love your smaller business We're going to discuss why cyber criminals are increasingly targeting smaller businesses instead of big corporations and provide you with a comprehensive list of the top ten things you need to be aware of when it comes to fending them off! From limited cybersecurity resources to underestimating the threat, we explore the vulnerabilities that small and medium sized businesses face and offer valuable insights to help protect your business from cyber attacks. So grab a cup of coffee, sit back, and get ready to learn why cyber baddies love the little guys in this eye-opening episode of Techcess. What you'll learn from listening to this episode of Techcess Dangers of limited cybersecurity resources Danger of assumption that current IT providers have cybersecurity handled The issue with underestimating the value of data Why the potential for repeated attacks Continued lack of investment in cybersecurity after a ransomware attack Timestamped Summary: [00:02:24] Big companies are less likely targets now. [00:03:39] Budget constraints impact SMB cybersecurity vulnerability. Relying on IT may not suffice. [00:09:23] Outsource cyber support often neglected, prioritize staff training. [00:12:26] Backup, especially cloud backup, is essential. [00:15:50] Cybercriminals want undetected attacks; response plans vital. [00:20:47] All businesses share 80% of same tech. 20% is industry-specific tools. [00:22:04] Most businesses have similar IT systems. Seek industry-specific advice for your business. Book a free chat with Mark! The giveaway guide! Have you checked out our episode offering a complete guide to buying IT services in 2023 yet? It comes with a free downloadable buyer's guide. Check it out here. Want to get more 'Techcess' in your business? Get more valuable technology insights from m3's blog pages, here. Mark Riddell's technology podcast "Techcess" is an m3 Networks production. Mark and the team have created this podcast to help you and their clients understand how technology can help them in their industry and business, including helping them with cyber security solutions. To find out more about Mark Riddell and the rest of the m3 team, visit them here and follow them on Linkedin....

Is your business investing in technology for operations? No? Oh dear. You need to listen! You know me as Mark Riddell, host of the Techcess podcast. But my job is being Managing Director of an IT support company named m3 Networks which is offering a range of managed services. And a large part of that day job is fielding objections from people who think we're just scaremongering them into buying stuff. But we don't need to use those kinds of underhand tactics. We're a healthy, thriving business, with a healthy bottom line, and we work with customers that we know appreciate and understand the importance of IT and technology for their smooth operations. But there are some business owners and IT decision makers we just can't help because they think we're just trying to sell them new stuff. So this episode is for you if you're one of the staff members of such an organisation, and you're getting increasingly frustrated with your boss's apparent unwillingness to invest in keeping things running well. The frustrations of failing tech We all know the frustration of waiting for a sluggish computer to load while deadlines loom. The effects of slow technology are even more pronounced when trying to finish tasks before the weekend or a holiday. I recently stumbled across an article that made some concerning points about the growing number of employees contemplating quitting their jobs due to frustrations with their inadequate technology that impedes their work. Workers can easily assess whether their employers prioritise technology by its impact on job performance and overall satisfaction. And they're now voting with their feet. What you'll learn from listening to this episode of Techcess Workers are quitting jobs due to poor technology There's a connection between employee satisfaction and investment in technology The trend is businesses are investing in higher-end tech for younger workforce Some actual statistics on workers leaving jobs due to inadequate technology How to approach the boss for technology upgrades Key points to consider when requesting an upgrade overcoming technology roadblocks While upgrading technology may seem like a substantial financial investment for a lot of small and medium sized businesses, it actually offers numerous long-term benefits. Waiting for prices to decrease or ideal circumstances may lead to missed opportunities and potential loss of valuable and even vital staff members. The point of this episode is to empower the employees who desire more efficient tools for their work so they can approach their employers, highlighting the key advantages an upgrade would bring. You can listen to the episode to hear them in detail, but these include increased productivity and efficiency, potential cost savings, utilisation of newer and better software, improved morale and overall increased job satisfaction. Not to mention the positive perceptions from clients! Timestamped Summary: 00:00:00 Old, slow tech reduces workplace productivity. 00:04:10 Upgrade: Time-saving, efficient, and productivity boosting. 00:07:51 Poor customer service reflects poorly on business. 00:13:00 Upgrade tech to avoid inefficiencies and downtime. 00:15:32 Businesses benefit from investing in technology. Book a free chat with Mark! The giveaway guide! Have you checked out our episode offering a complete guide to buying IT services in 2023 yet? It comes with a free downloadable buyer's guide. Check it out <a href=...

How blockchain and nfts could revolutionise small business technology! If like me you're a little green around the topic of blockchain and Web3 (web 3.0) then this could be the episode for you! As the host of this technology podcast "Techcess", I, Mark Riddell, am used to being an expert on the topics we're usually covering, such as cyber security, networking, MFA, and other business technology matters. But when it comes to this Web3 stuff, I'm still very much at the learning stage. So that's why I've invited a real expert on the topic to join us! blockchain's back story Blockchain has become a real 'buzzword' in recent years, and for good reason. Major organisations are now harnessing its power to streamline internal processes and revolutionise supply chain management. From tracking raw materials in the shipping industry to combatting counterfeit products in luxury goods, blockchain provides transparency, verification, and access to a secondary market. Our guest Sean Delaney from Sens talks us through the importance of focusing on specific use cases rather than getting lost in the technical details of blockchain itself. He explains how by identifying pain points and exploring industries like real estate, music, and digital identity, we can easily uncover the true value and potential applications of blockchain technology. Throughout the episode, we discuss the future of blockchain technology, the challenges posed by regulation, and the importance of a strong Web3 community. So whether you're curious about the impact of blockchain on your industry or simply want to stay ahead of the technological curve, this episode is not to be missed. What you'll learn from listening to this episode of Techcess Blockchain technology in big organizations and supply chain management Traceability in industries like shipping Authentication in luxury goods industry Transparency and verification for buyers and sellers Secondary market access Researching specific industries for blockchain use cases Future prediction of universal blockchain usage Marketing opportunities with NFTs Risks eliminated by NFTs Ethereum and smart contracts Public and private blockchains The power of blockchain in business One industry in which the advent of blockchain technology has unlocked unprecedented levels of transparency and efficiency in, is supply chain management. By utilising blockchain, organisations can trace products from raw materials to end consumers, curbing inefficiencies and minimising wastage. The implementation of blockchain in industries like shipping has proven immensely successful, reducing costs and enhancing trust by ensuring verifiable, tamper-proof records. Also, the luxury goods industry, plagued by counterfeit products, has found a savior in blockchain technology. Watch brands, diamond industries, and other luxury goods manufacturers are utilising blockchain for authentication purposes. By leveraging the transparency and verification offered by blockchain, both buyers and sellers can confidently participate in the secondary market, deterring black market trade and ensuring the authenticity of products. How can your own business harness The potential of blockchain? That's a great question. And it's one that we can't answer for you! But like Sean suggests, rather than getting caught up in the technical intricacies of blockchain itself, the episode...

Focusing for success by breaking down big tasks! In this episode of Techcess, we're talking tech hacks for those who struggle with productivity thanks to an unfocused mind. We're directly addressing a common struggle that many of us face when it comes to maintaining focus. As the host of Techcess, I, Mark Riddell, share my own personal challenges with focus and how it affects my productivity. From trying to juggle multiple tasks at once to the allure of multitasking, we explore the science behind our brain's ability to focus on one thing at a time. Additionally, we'll uncover different strategies, such as breaking tasks into smaller steps and using apps to help with that. So, whether you're someone who loves tackling one task at a time or thrives on multitasking, this episode is sure to provide valuable insights and practical tips for sharpening your focus in our increasingly digital world. What you'll learn from listening to this episode of Techcess The struggle with focus Trying to do too many things at once Multitasking and its limitations Time Division multiplexing Different approaches to thinking while exercising Frustration with incomplete tasks on to-do lists Breaking tasks into smaller steps Undiagnosed adult ADHD and the desire for achievement The dopamine hit of ticking off tasks The use of timers and the Pomodoro technique Minimising distractions the illusion of multitasking Humans are not built to effectively handle multiple tasks simultaneously. Drawing a parallel with computer processors, which employ time Division multiplexing to give the illusion of multitasking, I'll be explaining that our brains can only focus on one specific task at a time. Attempting to do otherwise results in a lack of progress and a perpetually growing to-do list. Tackling those to-do lists... effectively One of the challenges mentioned is the ineffectiveness of traditional to-do lists. While they serve as reminders, they often lack a sense of urgency and time constraints. I'll be explaining how I use methods and tools for breaking down larger tasks into smaller, manageable steps, providing a greater sense of accomplishment with every ticked-off item. Timestamped Summary: [00:00:00] Struggle with focus, multitasking hampers productivity. [00:04:54] Breaking tasks down into smaller steps helps. [00:08:02] Physical exercise helps with focus and productivity. [00:09:48] The two apps that help with focus, starting with Motion. [00:13:59] Motion's extra special bonus calendar sharing feature. [00:19:54] The Mac exclusive Windows 'catch up' tool! The giveaway guide! Have you checked out our episode offering a complete guide to buying IT services in 2023 yet? It comes with a free downloadable buyer's guide. Check it out here. Want to get more 'Techcess' in your business? Get more valuable technology insights from m3's blog pages, here. Mark Riddell's technology podcast "Techcess" is an m3...

Beyond Free Trials: Choosing the Right CRM Software and Planning for the Future! In this episode of Techcess, I'm joined by Zoho software expert Leigh Partin, from "Work Grow", who will talk us through how we can get our CRM systems nailed for business growth and success. Psssst! Click this for your free 30 day trial of the Zoho One software, on Leigh! Leigh's journey began when he left school at 16 without a clear direction. He attempted college but it didn't work out. At the age of 17, Leigh found himself working an IT job with the NHS before joining an IT outsource company called Bridge Partners. Within two years, Leigh was promoted to Managing Director and learned how to grow a £3 million business with 27 employees. He's now a consultant offering Zoho training to businesses who want to implement a streamlined CRM. What you'll learn from listening to this episode of Techcess The common mistakes made during CRM implementation The problems with lacking clear objectives Issues stemming from ignoring user needs and providing insufficient training The importance of scalability in business apps The consideration for long-term suitability The dangers of choosing systems based on outdated factors The importance of self-assessment and creating a shopping list How to plan for scalability and evolving needs CRM In the latest episode of the Techcess podcast, I, Mark Riddell am joined by Leigh Partin, a Zoho expert, and we chat about the world of CRM software, highlighting the five biggest mistakes businesses often make when implementing such systems. Our conversation starts with an exploration of Zoho, a brand known for its continuous product improvement. We talk about Zoho's extensive range of apps and particularly Zoho Mail, which Leigh suggests is a genuine alternative to Microsoft's popular email client offering! The evolution of software We talk about the evolving methodology for project execution, emphasising Leigh's recent experience with a workshop that involved too many participants. We discuss the need for clear objectives and engaging all stakeholders to avoid a few dominant voices overshadowing the conversation. Common mistakes made during implementation The episode also addresses common mistakes in CRM implementation. Ignoring user needs and providing inadequate training are just a couple of identified critical errors. We also chat through an exciting feature called "Blueprints" in Zoho's CRM, which helps reduce the need for extensive training while still requiring ongoing support. Scalability Scalability emerges as a crucial factor in choosing business apps and platforms. It's necessary for the planning for future growth. So we're here to shed light on the misconception that software scalability is unlimited, using Microsoft's enterprise licensing as an example. The readiness of businesses to adapt their systems is analysed, and we're offering practical advice for selecting the right tools. <p...

Email Hijack Survival Guide: Expert Advice on Safeguarding Your Business from Cyber Threats! In this episode of Techcess, I'm here to introduce part two of our two-part series on email hijacking and its impact on businesses. Part one of our story followed a character named David who made a very alarming discovery when a supplier contacted him over an unpaid bill... Ensure you listen to that part of our gripping tale of cybercrime and its consequences before listening to this part. What you'll learn from listening to this episode of Techcess *The importance of email security and the reluctance of businesses to admit breaches *The benefits of preventative security measures and the value of making informed choices *Balancing security and usability in implementing security measures *Recommendations for specific security measures and the importance of having an expert's guidance *Transparency around the potential impact of excessive security measures on staff attitudes *A summary of the actions taken to address the hacking incident *The need for a layered security approach and the unpredictability of cyberattacks *The importance of multi-factor authentication *The challenges faced by busy business owners and the increased priority of cybersecurity *The prediction that someone we know will be compromised in the future "Email Hijack" book! This episode is the second part of a two-part series that delves into the m3 Networks book "Email Hijack," which addresses the alarming issue of hackers infiltrating email accounts to steal from business bank accounts. I'm Mark Riddell. And as the host of the show, it's my hope that every business, including yours, the Techcess listener's, is aware of the constant threat of attack from hackers that you face. It's also my aim to raise awareness about this issue and provide listeners with information on how to protect themselves and their businesses. Timestamped Summary: 00:02:19 Deleted email forwarder, reported address, set up scanner and full audit trail to diagnose hacking attempts. 00:03:59 Blend the right layers for secure emails. 00:06:27 Why busy business owners need to focus and prioritise cybersecurity. Book a free chat with Mark! The giveaway guide! Have you checked out our episode offering a complete guide to buying IT services in 2023 yet? It comes with a free downloadable buyer's guide. Check it out here. Want to get more 'Techcess' in your business? Get more valuable technology insights from m3's blog pages, here. Mark Riddell's technology podcast "Techcess" is an m3 Networks production. Mark and the team have created this podcast to help you and their clients understand how technology can help them in their industry and business, including helping them with cyber...

Transforming Lives through Fundraising with Alzheimer's Research UK In a world full of uncertainties, one man's life took an unexpected turn, forever changing his purpose. Little did Chris Bane know that his mum’s devastating diagnosis would ignite a flame within him, propelling him towards a mission of hope. His journey, fuelled by this personal connection to a charity’s mission, has led him to the forefront of Alzheimer's Research UK, where he fights tirelessly for a cure. But what lies ahead on this path of determination? Will Chris's unwavering dedication be enough to conquer the grips of this unforgiving disease? What was the revelation that Chris made to me that sparked major hope of an end to the nation’s fight against it? You’ll have to listen to learn more. Chris’s story For Chris Bane, life took an unexpected turn when his mother was diagnosed with Alzheimer's at the age of 67. The shock of the diagnosis stirred a passion within him to help find a cure. Already having a background in charity work, it was the personal connection that propelled him towards Alzheimer's Research UK. Chris saw the disease's devastating effects firsthand and was determined to help spark change. I'm Mark Riddell. And as the host of Techcess, I'm delighted to share the story of Alzheimers Research UK who are our charity partner for this quarter. Every business, including yours, can help make a difference for the future of many millions. Possibly even a loved one of yours, or even you yourself. As you'll hear from my conversation with him, Chris's deep-rooted dedication drives him each day, not only to find a cure but also to educate others about the reality of the disease. This dedication is his beacon of hope for a future free from the grips of Alzheimer's. Timestamped Summary: 00:00:00 - Introduction and Charity Partnership 00:01:42 - Purpose and Background 00:04:28 - Dementia vs Alzheimer's 00:08:10 - Gender Disparity and Research 00:09:40 - Diagnosis Process 00:14:39 - The Potential of Drug Development for Dementia 00:15:53 - Importance of Early Diagnosis and Combination Treatments 00:17:18 - Factors Affecting Dementia Risk and Prevention 00:20:48 - Genetic Factors and Risk of Dementia 00:22:14 - The Importance of Fundraising for Dementia Research Get a free introductory chat with mark Book a free chat with Mark! M3 Networks giveaway guide Have you checked out our episode offering a complete guide to buying IT services in 2023 yet? It comes with a free downloadable buyer's guide. Check it out here. Want to get more 'Techcess' in your business? Get more valuable technology insights from m3's blog pages, here. Mark Riddell's technology podcast "Techcess" is an m3 Networks production. Mark and the team have created this podcast to help you and their...