Small businesses must be technology driven while at the same time concentrating on their core business. They are constantly challenged to stay current with technology in order to make educated decisions that will correctly fit their company's business goals. This is where 1iX has been providing value since 1996.

We work as your extended technology staff, watching out for your best interests. When you have technology questions, we are here to answer them.

Small businesses typically need the same base technology infrastructure, which includes computer workstations, network wiring, file servers, antivirus software, Internet access, e-mail and security to protect network data or prevent Internet intruders. Ensuring that these base systems are properly implemented and maintained is critical to a successful base infrastructure.

Once your business has implemented a solid technology infrastructure, additional specialized solutions can be layered on top to enhance efficiency and productivity. Without a solid, well-maintained infrastructure, costs and frustrations can escalate.

How to find the correct technology for your business and build a solid base infrastructure:

1. Think about your business first, technology second.
If you could double the amount of direct mail your company sends, would that help your business? If you could improve your company's cash flow by invoicing sooner, would that help your business? Decide what would help your business the most, and create a list of these items. View technology as a tool. Don't fall into the trap of implementing technology now and deciding how it will help your business later.

2. Determine technology solutions for each business goal.
Once you have created a list of business goals or improvements, determine if a technology solution already exists (store purchase) or if a custom solution needs to be created. 1iX can work with you to make this determination.

3. Build and maintain a solid base technology infrastructure.
We have seen businesses grow without a solid technology base or technology plan. The results were escalating technology costs, repair time and user frustration. Why does this happen? For many reasons, including a lack of standards, a lack of documentation and a lack of a technology plan. In these cases, our role is to correct the problems and stabilize the environment.