ThreeBest Rated Review

Integracon is now listed as one of the Top 3 IT services companies in Knoxville. Businesses do not pay threebestrated.com to list them ever. They believe that local business provide the best service locally and their policy is list for free because if you pay to list, are you really the best business? https://threebestrated.com/it-services-in-knoxville-tn

Healthcare Industry Solutions

Integracon has helped transform healthcare systems with IT solutions. Some services we provide for the healthcare industry are highlighted below, with even more services highlighted on our website. Now more than ever, our healthcare industry needs all hands on deck with the ongoing pandemic. IT solutions can make organization and management much more accessible for […]

How IT Solution Providers Benefit Small Business

At Integracon, we believe that IT can be the game-changer that can help your small business grow. We are the leading managed service provider (MSP) with over two decades of experience providing winning IT strategy and support. Staying on top of your technology includes controlling the costs associated with keeping in-house staff up-to-date with training, […]

Benefits of a Managed Anti-Virus Solution Infographic

At Integracon, we offer a variety of IT solutions for your business. We specialize in anti-virus solutions to protect your company. We’ll detail the benefits of our anti-virus solutions below, but to make it even easier, just know that through this system, we can secure your network while you sleep. If you have any questions […]

Integracon’s Competency Infographic

At Integracon, we pride ourselves on the 21 certifications we hold and maintain. These certifications range tremendously within the realm of IT, so you can feel confident that the team managing your business’ IT is well qualified. Cisco Sales Expert 2.0, Security + Professional, VMWare Sales Professionals, A+ Hardware Specialization, Network +, and Cisco Firewall […]

Mobile Device Management

When you think of IT management, you may think of an IT company, like Integracon, managing the software and devices within a business or company’s office. Our world is becoming more and more “on the go” each and every day. With this in mind, Integracon is skilled, equipped, and experienced with mobile device management within […]

Spring Cleaning Your Technology

As the warm weather is creeping in, some of us are getting the urge to get outside, get active, and start cleaning! “Spring cleaning” is a trend every year because the warmer weather and the abundant sunshine give us more energy and motivation. We finally have the motivation to clean out the attic and the […]

Data Recovery Services

With the constantly evolving ways in which technology functions, it can be easy to find yourself trying to keep up with the trends. But let’s face it, it can be very challenging to stay “technology-fluent” on every platform you use for work. Because of this, sometimes you find yourself clicking multiple buttons in an attempt […]

Industry-Specific Solutions

At Integracon, we know all the ins and outs of efficiently implementing and managing IT within several different business types and industries; many of which you may not have realized that we work with. Non-profits, banking and finances, healthcare, manufacturing, government, and other growing businesses are just a brief overview of the industries we provide […]

3D Printing Infographic

3D printing is revolutionizing the world. Technological advancements in 3D printing are happening every day – even houses are being 3D printed! What does this mean for you and society’s future? Take a look at how objects are 3D printed, the materials that are used, the global effects that 3D printing could have, and the […]

How to Keep Your Information Safe on Cyber Monday

Cyber Monday is an online shopping day following Black Friday. Many retailers offer major discounts on a large portion of their inventory. According to Adobe Analytics, this cyber Monday is projected to be the largest in history, with online sales totaling $9.4 billion. That is 19% higher than last year’s online holiday. Since there are […]

5‌ ‌Best‌ ‌IT‌ ‌Job‌ ‌Titles‌ ‌for‌ ‌2020‌

As technology advances in our world each and every day, information technology jobs become more and more expansive and important. Also, with this growing trend in IT jobs, the salaries for these positions go up as they are in higher demand. Author Paul Stokes wrote an article for Medium.com ranking and expanding on the job […]

How Predicted Changes in Technology Will Affect the Workplace

In workplaces ranging in fields across the board, there are evident changes taking place when it comes to technology. For example, an optometrist’s office cannot just rely on paper files for each and every patient they have had. Technology is shifting the way we work, the way we interact, and the way customers access businesses. […]

IT Made Simple

IT is the abbreviation for information technology. This term encompasses such a wide array of technological categories that businesses usually need either a department or an IT specialty company to manage. Companies that have IT departments in-house usually refer to it as MIS, Management Information Services, or IS, Information Services. Whether a business has an […]

Managed IT Solutions

Integracon offers top of the line managed IT solutions and services. Our managed services provide ease and efficiency to your business’ IT flow. IT management costs that are predictable, continuous process improvement, the flexibility to scale up or down, unlimited quality support, and fully-managed or co-managed technical assistance are just some of the perks you […]

Nonprofit Organizations and Associations Services

Nonprofit organizations and associations have a very unique set of needs when it comes to IT support. Here at Integracon, we have many years of experience in handling the aspects specific to these organizations. You can trust our team because we have had so much real-world experience in the multiple aspects of nonprofit organizations’ specific […]

Importance of Security Patching and Software Updates

A security patch is, in essence, a small piece of software that provides changes to a computer program that is used to update, improve, or fix a standing problem within the current program. These patches are included in any software updates offered within your specific security program. Utilizing security patching in your business is crucial. […]

Why Integracon?

Integracon provides a multitude of services to grow your small or large business. From awards to certifications to licenses, Integracon is more than competent to manage your IT infrastructures and keep your business protected. There are twenty-one certifications held by Integracon that prove the services provided are of the highest quality. Integracon employees are heavily […]

Manufacturing Industry Solutions

In today’s world, manufacturers are facing extremely heavy competition. Information technology is imperative to keep the operations of a manufacturing facility running smoothly. There are several tools that IT can provide to optimize the functions within the manufacturing industry. Some of these include:  Expediting the delivery process of products to the customer More personable interactions […]

The Integracon Difference

At Integracon, we strive to do our P.A.R.T. by providing customers with world-class customer support and ensuring they are always satisfied with the results. By following our four core values: Passion, Accountability, Respect, and Teamwork, we hold ourselves to the highest-level of accountability every day. Contact Integracon today to find out how our wide range […]

The Importance of IT Solutions in the Finance Industry

When it comes to handling money, security protocols are of the utmost importance. In our changing digital society, there has never been a bigger need for IT solutions targeted at protecting online financial institutions and transactions. Hackers looking to commit cyber theft are adept at finding entry points into banking systems and security systems are […]

3 Ways Blockchain is Changing the Online World

Blockchain is perhaps one of the most important recent developments in the online world. The technology allows for a decentralized system of record-keeping by grouping data into clusters and linking them with cryptographic principles. Because there is no central authority to govern blockchain, it is the picture of a fully transparent and democratized system. Initially […]

IIoT: What is the Industrial Internet of Things?

The industrial internet of things (IIoT), also known as the Industrial Internet, is the internet where machines, people, and computers go to communicate with each other. While this is a simple explanation for a vast and complicated system, it’s a good place to start when first learning about IIoT. There are numerous applications within this […]

The Benefits of Cloud Computing for Your Business

“Cloud computing” or simply “the cloud” has become something of a buzzword in the tech industry over the last few years. While sometimes seen as a vague, mysterious entity, the cloud is making waves as an alternative to traditional hard drives. More and more businesses are taking advantage of this new development through guided IT […]

5 Things You Need to Know About VoIP

If you work in a business where dialing phones is part of the job, chances are you’ve heard about VoIP. More and more companies are ditching traditional phone plans and opting to embrace this new technology to save money and optimize performance. But what exactly is VoIP and how can your business benefit from it? […]

4 Benefits of Managed IT Outsourcing

In today’s economy, hiring a full-time IT staff doesn’t make financial sense. This is why many companies are turning towards Managed IT Outsourcing to better suit their technological needs. Outsourcing IT refers to the process of hiring a third party provider, outlining your business expectations, and allowing the provider to manage your IT infrastructure. Read […]

IT Solutions for Nonprofit Organizations

In the last decade, nonprofit organizations have turned to the internet to initiate fundraising efforts and contact potential donors. Gone are the days of mailing letters or soliciting donors door-to-door. Instead, nonprofits have pivoted to email marketing campaigns, subscriber information databases, and donation management systems. Because these organizations rely so heavily on technology to achieve […]

Hiring a Virtual CTO/CIO

Information Technology (IT) is an essential part of running any business. Every business has data to store, whether it’s sensitive information that needs a complicated protective system in place or not. While some companies may need a CTO or CIO (or both) as full-time employees, a virtual CTO or CIO may be the perfect fit […]

5 Ways a Business Continuity Plan Can Help Your Business

A business continuity plan can be an effective tool to help grow your business and increase profitability. Integracon’s business continuity plans include strategies that will maximize the benefit of your overall plan. Lowering your insurance premiums helps reduce the cost of business risk capital. Deconstructing your processes to understand the underlying risks can reveal opportunities […]

Managing Your IT Assets

Managing your IT assets can be overwhelming, especially if your IT process is extensive or contains a lot of data for a large company. It can be challenging to find an exhaustive way to manage the various IT assets that come with running a business. And when they aren’t running smoothly, consequences can be severe. […]

How Integracon Serves the Manufacturing Industry

Manufacturers are facing intense competition from all over the world. Reliable application delivery maintains the information flow through the increasingly complex supply chain keeping operations running smoothly and inventory moving from warehouse floor to delivery. Because of these challenges, Integracon offers managed IT services in order to help manufacturers simplify and standardize their business systems […]

Cloud Construction 101

Integracon can help you cloud-enable your organization with our suite of cloud builder tools. From cloud migration to deployments to integrations, our experienced Cloud Development Team can walk you through the necessary steps to move from a fully on-premises model to either a hybrid or full-scale cloud environment. With the cloud, your organization can reduce […]

Integracon’s Data Recovery Services

Integracon is More Than Qualified Integracon is a leader in the Data Recovery industry and provides unparalleled data recovery services throughout the entire nation. While there are certainly many companies and websites that advertise data recovery services, most companies are not qualified to perform difficult data recovery techniques. The truth of the matter is that […]

IT Telecom Services

As authorized agents, Integracon delivers the most effective carrier solution for your business. Through partnerships with the biggest names in the telecommunications industry, we work with you to determine and deliver the most appropriate and cost-effective carrier solutions for your organization. We also design, implement and support all of your data. We Leverage Our Partner […]

What We Do: Managed Firewall and Intrusion Prevention

Integracon’s Managed Firewall and Intrusion Prevention services focus on saving your business time and helping you run your organization as efficiently as possible. Firewall equipment vendors believe their products’ intuitive interfaces and intelligent engines enable anyone to install and manage a firewall. However, network administrators must be familiar with TCP/IP, Internet services, encryption, firewall methodologies […]

Building Your Network to Maximize Productivity

The corporate world seemingly moves faster day after day, and you need a business network that can keep up! From the healthcare industry to plumbers and electricians, Integracon can design and install a network that streamlines business processes and maximizes business productivity. Integracon works with small and medium business networks and larger enterprise networks. Whether […]

Integracon Serves Governmental Organizations

Serving the public and educating the population in a time of profound change is an enormous challenge. Whether you are facing tightening budgets and austerity measures, or are trying to adapt to new standards and global competition, technology is key to your success. With a dynamic and collaborative technology partner, you will have the resources […]

4 Ways to Free Up Storage on Your iPhone

“Storage full” is easily one of the most frustrating notifications that seem to constantly pop up on our phones. It can be tempting to pay for more storage or even to take your phone in for an upgrade for more space. But before you do so, here are some easy tips for clearing up storage […]

Integracon’s Structured Cabling Services

From conception to installation, Integracon IT Solutions is with you all the way. We can assess your infrastructure and provide the right cabling products and installation services to maximize the performance of your network and ensure your project is completed on time and on budget. At Integrecon we understand that every organization is unique and, […]

Integracon’s Hardware or Software Configuration and Deployment Services

When your organization is ready to roll out a system, application, product or process, Integracon will provide efficient, quality-driven deployment services from design concept to reality. Some of our key steps will include: Verification of Builds to Product Specification Rolling out new applications can prove a complicated and time consuming process. Our testing procedures ensure […]

5 Tips to Save Money on Tech in 2019

New year, new gadgets. Buying the latest tech device is always tempting, but tech products are annoyingly expensive. The money spent on technology can really add up throughout the course of the year. When purchasing a new product, you’re often spending more than the device is actually worth. However, having the latest tech products doesn’t […]

Healthcare Startups & Blockchain

Back in May, we talked about how blockchain will change how healthcare data is managed. As the use of blockchain significantly increased in 2018, according to IDC more than 20% of healthcare organizations will be using blockchain by 2020. So the question is, is blockchain a good move for healthcare startups? What makes blockchain so […]

Cybersecurity Trends in 2019

Cybersecurity is a hot topic for organizations across different business industries. Securing networks and protecting data from cyber-threats has become more important than ever with cyber-incidents on the rise. Here are four cybersecurity trends predicted for the new year: A focus on cloud-based security platforms It is likely that 2019 will bring an increased focus […]

3 Healthcare IT Acts You Should Know About

In the world of healthcare information technology, it is extremely important to be familiar with IT rules and regulations, as they affect how you design your systems to stay in compliance with the law. Here are 3 of the most important acts for healthcare IT professionals to be familiar with in order to remain compliant. […]

ERP: The Latest in Healthcare AI

As electronic health records (EMRs) have become the norm for most of the United States, it looks like enterprise resource planning (ERP) will be the next piece of artificial intelligence (AI) adopted by U.S. hospitals. According to a report by Evans Data Corporation, more than 58% of AI developers are currently working to add AI […]

Integracon’s IT Regulatory Compliance Services

Businesses today have many new and existing regulations that control how they operate. Because of this, it has never been more vital that businesses have efficient and effective ways to manage risk and monitor compliance. Integracon Regulatory Compliance Services are tailored to provide you with the trustworthy guidance you need. Our breadth of Managed Security […]

Integracon’s Asset Disposal and Recycling Services

Integracon’s Asset Recovery & Disposal services focus on the retirement and disposal of personal computers, servers, network equipment, and peripherals. It is our mission to protect businesses from the inherent risks associated with computer retirement and disposal. What are the risks? Confidential information remaining on retired hard drives Software Piracy Environmental fines With tightly controlled […]

Integracon’s Managed Web-Filtering and Web-Security Solutions

Keep malicious internet traffic from affecting your bottom line with Integrecon’s Managed Web-Filtering and Web-Security Solutions. Premium Internet Security Suite enforces security at the DNS and IP Layers by using the Internet’s existing infrastructure to prevent command and control callbacks, malware, ransomware and phishing from compromising systems and exfiltrating data over any port or protocol. […]

Benefits of a Managed Anti-virus Solution

Managed Anti-Virus Solutions offer many benefits over traditional anti-virus deployments, which can leave too much to chance. Integracon’s Managed Anti-Virus Solutions includes enterprise class endpoint protection and is monitored 24/7. Our experts will ensure that you receive all the necessary updates and also provide you with regular reports that verify you are protected at all […]

3 Crucial Data Security Measures Every EMR Must Have in Place

Healthcare is arguably the most important industry when it comes to data security. Failure to have the proper access to patient’s record could mean the difference between life and death. Between patient records, financial information and more, cybercrime can have devastating effects for healthcare companies. Data travels in and out of healthcare systems in a […]

Day to Day Tech Tips: 6 Ways to Cut Back on iPhone Data Usage

We all know that one of the worst texts you can receive is: “You’ve used 95% of your data with 12 days remaining. Extra Data for this cycle will be $15 per 1 GB.” Here are six phone-wide setting adjustments that can keep you under your monthly data allotment.    Restrict iTunes and App Store Downloads […]

Securing Your Assets with Integracon’s IT Patch Management

Integracon’s Patch Management services give you peace of mind in knowing that the security of your system is top notch, immune to known vulnerabilities, as well as in regulation with government compliance laws. Patching keeps security holes closed and applications updated with the newest features. All of this ensure the productivity and efficiency of your […]

Suspicious Top-Level Domains: What You Should Know

What is a Domain? Domain names are identification strings that define a realm of administrative autonomy, authority, or control within the Internet — they either represent an Internet Protocol (IP) resource (i.e. a personal computer accessing the Internet), a server hosting a website, the website itself, or other services that communicate through the Internet. Domain […]

Strategic IT Solutions by Industry

Technology can be a real challenge to manage for any business. No matter what business sector you may work in, technology complications likely exist whether they are large or small. The difficulty can often be in identifying the correct IT solutions for the specific industry your organization is in, as strategic services can vary accordingly. […]

What Are the Different Industries That Integracon Serves?

Non-Profit Organizations and Associations Whether you’re preparing for a board meeting, fielding a phone call from a donor, or you’re simply contacting a colleague to inquire about an upcoming fundraising event, chances are you’re relying on technology to help you accomplish these tasks. But if your technology stops working — for even a few minutes […]

Integracon’s Managed Email Services

Managed Email Services Our Managed Email Service will ensure that your company email is safe, secure, reliable and widely available, all at a reasonable cost, no matter how large or small the company. We specialize in Office365, Google Business Apps and Microsoft Exchange. Common Complaints Include Disruption to business and unhappy customers through poor communication. […]

How Telehealth is Helping Hospital Revenue Cycles

We’ve talked about the major benefits and trends of telehealth, but one of the lesser known benefits is the improvement telehealth can bring to the billing and payment cycle for hospitals. As patient financial responsibility for healthcare bills evolve, there has been an increase in the use of online platforms to streamline payments between patients […]

Legal, Financial, and Criminal Consequences for HIPAA Violations

Protecting patients’ private health information has become a major concern for most of the world. That’s because this information and data, otherwise known as “protected health information” (PHI) and electronic protected health information” (e-PHI), has increasingly become a primary target of a variety of hackers and scammers. And while this data and information is protected […]

Integracon’s IT Certifications

Any business seeking IT services should always work with an IT company that maintains their IT skills and proficiencies through ongoing IT certifications. These certifications are a testament of the IT provider’s credibility, but it also means they are relevant to today’s IT needs — renewing and maintaining IT certifications requires staying on top of […]

Integracon’s Live Technical Assistance Service

What is Integracon’s Live Technical Assistance? We understand the importance of your organization having immediate access to technical support. Our live, 24×7 technical assistance support means your organization, large or small, can rely on quality IT technical assistance services any time of the day. Not all technical assistance support is created equally, but luckily for […]

Cybersecurity Facts Every Business Should Know

Regardless of your industry or size, businesses are falling victim to cyber attacks at an alarming rate.  Although small businesses have been found to be at greater risk, none of us are safe. With important assets and the company’s reputation on the line, establishing protection from cyber attacks is something businesses can no longer push […]

Secure Your Network: 3 Tips for Safer Wi-Fi

As much as we like to think it doesn’t happen, online hacks and information thefts are an everyday occurrence and can be devastating to a business with sensitive or valuable information. In order to create a secure Wi-Fi network for your business, follow these 3 steps. 1. Choose an inconspicuous network name (SSID). First things […]

Why Local-Only or Cloud-Only Backups are Risky Business

When it comes to protecting and managing your data (and your business), it’s important to think in terms of business continuity — not just data backups. It’s true, however, that data backups are a necessary aspect of protecting your business’s data — it’s how and where you back it up that matters. Understanding Business Continuity […]

The Top 6 Websites for Healthcare IT News

Being up-to-date in your industry is important for any job, but is even more crucial in the evolving world of healthcare IT. Thankfully, these six sites make it easy to keep up with breaking stories, tech updates, industry trends, and more. 1. Healthcare IT News Healthcare IT News is a great source for news in […]

Top 5 Tips for Creating and Securing Passwords

As cybercrimes continue to surface at an alarming rate, hacktivist attacks and online information thefts are becoming an everyday occurrence, putting us all at a greater risk than ever before. From the 2018 Macy’s data breach to phishing and malvertising, there is an obvious trend of instability within the online realm when it comes to […]

The HITECH Act’s Health IT Infrastructure Standards and Requirements

The HITECH (Health Information Technology for Economic and Clinical Health) Act was passed in 2009 as part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Auto of 2009 (ARRA). This piece of legislation was created to accelerate the adoption of electronic health records (EHRs), and its supporting technology, in U.S. healthcare organizations. The 7 major goals of the HITECH […]

e-PHI Data Security: What is e-PHI Data Theft?

PHI stands for protected health information and includes just what it sounds like: identifiable information in a person’s health data records, such as health details, date of birth, Social Security number, fingerprints, photos/images, and even financial information. e-PHI is the same thing, it’s just used, held, and transmitted via electronic form (there are actually 18 […]

Technology Considerations for an Office Move

Whether your business is moving to a new location or you’ve outgrown your current office space, a bad location or an increasingly cramped office space is never ideal. Moving to a new (better) location or simply a larger office space can often do wonders for the growth of a business, but there’s still a lot […]

HIPAA Security Rule Part 2: General Data Security Rules for Electronic Protected Health Information

In part 1 of the HIPAA Security Rule blog series, we introduced you to healthcare data security basics, or in other words, what the HIPAA Security Rule is, what the primary objectives are, and what kind of information is protected by the HIPAA Security Rule. Below, and as part 2 of this series, we are […]

HIPAA Security Rule Part 1: An Intro to Data Security for Electronic Protected Health Information

Information and data security are hugely important topics, and no group knows that more than those who work in the healthcare field. Whether it’s who physicians and healthcare providers can talk to about a specific patient’s care, how to protect your healthcare facility from healthcare data hackers, or how to secure individuals’ “electronic protected health […]

Fighting Phishing: How to Spot Email Scams

Each day your inboxes are flooded with email after email, some from people you know, others from companies of which you are familiar. Some emails that make their way into your inbox are typical and expected, while others are so outlandish that they would be foolish to even think twice about. A free trip to […]

4 Common Problems Companies Face + How to Combat Them

There are mountains of challenges that come along with operating a business, but there are four common business problems, in particular, that just about every business or business owner will face: uncertainty about the future, changing regulations and compliance, reputation management, and maintaining technology and data. Keep reading as we cover each of these business […]

How to Secure Your Database

Having secure information and databases becomes increasingly important the more and more we rely on technology for business operations —  especially in the business and healthcare fields, which store massive amounts of information using databases. A database usually holds sensitive information such as patient records, financial records, and so on, and because sensitive information is […]

The Key Benefits of Data Vault Services

To avoid getting lost in a sea of technological jargon right off the bat, let’s try to understand data vault services by comparing it to something many of us know — personal property protection. In this scenario, let’s say the so-called data is now an important item, such as an expensive jewel or irreplaceable document. […]

How to Protect Healthcare Data from Orangeworm

Orangeworm, the new cyber group, seems to have its eyes set on undermining healthcare data security. Just last month, Symantec reported that they believe Orangeworm is using malware Trojan.Kwampirs to target: Healthcare Providers Pharmaceutical Firms IT Solution Providers for Healthcare Healthcare Equipment Manufacturers Manufacturing, IT, Agriculture, and Logistics Firms Possibly Linked to Healthcare Symantec believes […]

Cloud Consulting: IT Data Vault Services

The Cloud offers a wide range of solutions for almost any business or organization. From storage to accessibility, the Cloud makes it easier to keep track of large amounts of data and allows employees to reach company information at any time. At Integracon, we specialize in many different cloud solutions — including a comprehensive cloud […]

Orangeworm Targeting Healthcare Data Security with Trojan.Kwampirs

Symantec released a late April 2018 report stating Orangeworm, a new cyber group, has been undermining healthcare data security with targeted attack campaigns against large healthcare firms and related industries using a custom backdoor malware known as Trojan.Kwampirs. Here’s what you need to know to stay on top of the developing IT health and security […]

Top 5 Cybersecurity Threats to Electronic Health Records and Electronic Medical Records

Electronic Health Records (EHRs) and Electronic Medical Records (EMRs) contain a massive amount of sensitive information about a patient’s identity, medical health, and medical history. And while these electronic records allow physicians, healthcare professionals, and insurance companies to share information — a process that makes it easier to provide cross-coverage care and bill insurance — […]

4 Reasons Why a Hybrid Cloud Backup System is a Best IT Practice for SMBs

Businesses of different sizes face different IT challenges and requirements, but no matter the size of your business it’s imperative that you protect your data, if you want to protect the business itself. Whether you’re looking for IT support for a medical clinic, a bank, a boutique agency, or some other small to midsize business […]

What is a Managed Service Provider (MSP) & What Do They Do For Your Business?

If you’ve looked around the Integracon website, you might have seen that we’re the leading MSP with nearly two decades of experience in the world of IT strategy and support. While it’s easy to quantify how we’re an experienced IT company, we wanted to dig into what a MSP is — and what they can […]

Quick Tips for Protecting Your Privacy on Facebook

In case you haven’t heard, Facebook is in some hot water currently. Why? Because its use of users’ personal data has been called into question, resulting in Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg’s appearance before Congress earlier this month. Here’s a little bit of backstory on what is now being referred to as the Cambridge Analytica scandal. […]

Avoid Cyber Attacks: Train Users on Digital Security

Unfortunately, we are not born understanding cybersecurity. For some of us, spotting threats is easier than for others. Users who are not well versed on computer viruses or hacking tricks are more likely to fall victim to these cybersecurity threats, which can be a huge problem if they infect a computer running on a company […]

5 Time Management Tips to Boost Productivity at Work

We’ve talked a lot about IT downtime on our blog lately. If you aren’t familiar with what IT downtime is, it’s the term for what happens when your business’ functions are interrupted by computer crashes, downed networks, data loss, or any other IT-related hinderance. IT downtime can be costly and damaging for your business — […]

Data Encryption Part 2: What Should Your Company Encrypt?

If you’ve been following our recent data encryption series, you know that protecting against cyber attacks is incredibly important. In our last post, we went over exactly what data encryption is, the types of data encryption methods, and how data encryption benefits organizations of all kinds. Next, it’s important to understand the type of data […]

Infographic: Business Continuity Solutions Help Protect Your Business or Nonprofit from Downtime

Business continuity solutions are beneficial — vital even — because they do just what they sound like: they help maintain your business’s or nonprofit’s vital data and tech functions, even in the face of downtime or some other disaster (like these 11 types of downtime). Downtime can wreak havoc on a business; during downtime, all […]

Data Encryption Part 1: Should Your Business Use Data Encryption?

Protecting your organization’s data is incredibly important to keep things running smoothly. Recent cyber attacks from Uber to Equifax exemplify just how much grief a security breach can cause, so finding a way to protect all your business’s information is essential to the business’s success. While it might sound complicated and convoluted to those well-versed […]

The 11 Leading Causes of Downtime

We’ve talked a lot about what downtime is and how it can affect a business — if you aren’t caught up, read our blogs “Why a Business Continuity Plan is More Than Just Data Backups” and “Downtime: How Much It Could Cost Your Business” — but we still need to talk about what causes downtime. […]

4 Ways to Keep Your Tech Happy and Healthy

Just like your car, your home, and everything else of importance in your life, maintenance is key for keeping things running as smoothly as possible. But what about your technology? Computers, tablets, smartphones, smartwatches, and other pieces of tech are expensive and require intentional upkeep — just like your other assets. Today, we’re bringing you […]

Network Design For Your Business

Your network should keep up with today’s fast pace, not slow you down due to obsolete technology. No matter what industry your organization operates in, Integracon has experience designing and building custom networks that increase productivity and streamline day-to-day procedures. No matter the size of your business, we can help update current networks or create […]

Healthcare IT Solutions

Technology is a crucial element of the healthcare industry, but this fact goes much deeper than the technology of machines and communication — it also applies to maintaining business continuity and protecting the data that allows daily functions to remain continuous and smooth, should downtime occur. From patient information in a hospital, all the way […]

Why a Business Continuity Plan is More Than Just Data Backups

Your business’s data is important — so important that losing it could be the end of your business itself. You can protect against data loss with data backups (especially highly effective ones like hybrid cloud-based data backup systems), but have you thought about what happens to your business’ finances and reputation during the time in […]

Business Continuity Checklist: How to Reduce the Effects of IT Downtime

Business continuity solutions help a business quickly resume operations after downtime, effectively reducing breaks in business, lost data, and other associated consequences. A backup and disaster recovery (BDR) vendor can help you set up and manage this IT strategy, just make sure they offer the following business continuity features: Learn more about business continuity solutions […]

Use Managed IT Solutions to Grow Your Small Business

Starting a new business is scary, no matter what industry you’re entering. Creating a business from scratch comes with a long list of things to do and things to worry about — from thinking about market potential to preparing a business plan and running risk analysis, small business owners have a lot of their plate. […]

Downtime: How Much It Could Cost Your Business

Technological downtime is real, and it can be very costly for a business — especially if you don’t have an effective IT strategy in place that helps you rapidly resume business functions in the wake of an IT disaster. Data loss, employee job performance, sales, finances, client or customer trust, your reputation, your business itself […]

5 Ways Business Continuity Plans Improve IT & Profitability

Businesses looking to improve their IT strategy — and increase profitability — should take a deep look into business continuity plans. While it sounds pretty mundane and nondescript, business continuity is a vital element of a strong IT strategy, as it involves everything your business needs to make sure it can quickly resume operations after […]

Meltdown and Spectre: What You Should Know

There’s always something going on in the tech industry — whether it’s something exciting, like the unveiling of the newest iPhone, or an unsettling event, such as the recent ransomware attacks. The latest of these distressing happenings? Meltdown and Spectre. What are Meltdown and Spectre? Meltdown and Spectre are massive flaws in many processors manufactured […]

Why Your Non-Profit Organization Needs Managed IT Services

Non-profit organizations can benefit hugely from utilizing managed IT services. That’s because nonprofits are no different than any other industry, in that each organization has unique informational technological needs. Integracon has over 15 years of extensive experience managing IT operations for non-profit organizations in Knoxville, TN and beyond. In fact, we have a specialized background […]

Step-By-Step Guide: How to Deal With a Security Breach

Unfortunately, security breaches are quickly becoming commonplace in our everyday lives. From Arby’s to social media platforms to America’s Job Link, data breaches of all shapes and sizes have made it clear that no business or organization is safe from hackers and other security threats. Just as clear as the danger, though, is the fact […]

Why You Need an IT Business Continuity Solution

In the IT sphere, business continuity is the thought-process, planning, and action of making sure your business can quickly resume operations after a system failure, disaster, or other disruption. It effectively reduces any breaks in business so that you can avoid unacceptable consequences associated with said breaks. Business continuity, however, is not as simple as […]

Why Your Business Needs Managed IT Services

Information technology is becoming increasingly complicated with each passing day, and unless your business specializes in IT, it can be pretty hard to keep up. Managed service providers (MSPs) allow a company to delegate any and all of their internet technology operations to a service provider. Using managed services has obvious benefits like eliminating stress […]

5 Ways to Add Value to Your IT Strategy

You already know that having a robust IT strategy is imperative for safeguarding your company’s most important data and assets. You’ve pushed all of your information to the Cloud, you’ve secured your network, and you have a plan in place in case of an emergency — now what? If you’re interested in taking your already […]

Understanding the Firewall: Your First Line of Defense

Computers communicate with each other to send and receive information — without this communication, you wouldn’t be able to do the things you want to do on the web: login to a website, perform transactions, transfer files, receive email, open files, etc. Making this all happen requires that computers send and receive data “packets” from […]

4 Common Cyber Security Threats to Your Business

From the WannaCry ransomware attack to the Equifax security breach, 2017 has been a rough year for IT security. Things aren’t looking stellar for the foreseeable future, either — it’s estimated that cyber crime damage costs will hit $6 trillion annually by 2021, causing unfilled cybersecurity jobs to more than triple. In 2015, IBM President […]

Steps to Protect Your Privacy and Data on Public WiFi: For Macs & PCs

Free WiFi is available almost everywhere — from your local coffee shop all the way to your favorite department store. With so many opportunities to get work done away from the office or home, it’s hard not to take advantage of it. However, take caution: working on public WiFi, or even password-protected WiFi (like one […]

Cybersecurity in the Workplace: Best Practices

It’s National Cyber Security Awareness Month (NCSAM), and every week in October is designated with a different cybersecurity awareness message. This week, it’s all about creating and maintaining a culture of cybersecurity in the workplace with the theme, “Cybersecurity in the Workplace is Everyone’s Business.” When dealing with matters involving your company, you’re not just […]

National Cyber Security Awareness Month 2017: Themes and Events for Businesses

October is National Cyber Security Awareness Month (NCSAM) — the time of the year cybersecurity experts team up to raise awareness about cybersecurity. And because our passion lies in protecting businesses, employees, and customers from online attacks, malware, data loss, and other digital threats, we wanted to help raise awareness about some great ways businesses […]

7 Internet Security Blogs and Websites To Follow

Information and internet security issues are constantly evolving — do you know where to look for the latest information technology news to keep your organization safe? Whether you’re looking for the latest news on cybersecurity, internet threats, malware, company breaches, or vulnerabilities, there are a variety of online resources that can help you learn what’s […]

Future-Proof Your Network with Structured Cabling Solutions

Similar to “the cloud,” structured cabling is another one of those buzzwords that gets thrown around often in the cable sphere. Many people believe that structured cabling is simply knowing the purpose of each cable in their network — but it’s a little more complicated than that. Today, we’re breaking down the basics of structured […]

The Equifax Data Breach — Everything You Need to Know So Far

On September 7th 2017, Equifax — one of the three major U.S. credit agencies — announced that sensitive personal information of 143 million people was hacked, exposed, and stolen. While most of those 143 million are U.S. residents — a staggering 44% of the nation’s population —  this major data breach also includes some Canadian […]

3 Reasons Information Technology is Important for Financial Institutions

As digital transactions continue to rise throughout the world, sophisticated efforts to maintain consumer safety — whether that be preventing data loss, securing transactions, or safeguarding personal information — will continue to be a requirement for financial institutions. It’s not only good business for banks, investment companies, insurance companies, and all other financial institutions to […]

Blockchain: How it Works

News, businesses, Wall Street banks, and more are all buzzing about blockchain. But, what is it, and how does it work? Follow along as we quickly define blockchain and tell you a bit about how it works. What is Blockchain? According to Don and Alex Tapscott, the authors of Blockchain Revolution, “the blockchain is an […]

Cybersecurity Tips for Healthcare Facilities

In the continued evolution of cyber security threats, healthcare facilities have become one of the biggest targets, as their computers and networks hold a vast quantity of secure patient information that is often needed to continue with proper and quality patient care. When a healthcare facility’s system is locked-down by malware (such as ransomware), it’s […]

vCIO and CTO Services to the Rescue

.When a company’s IT department is lacking expertise, or lacking the department all together, the company might need help breaking through in a competitive marketplace. With Integracon’s vCIO and CTO outsourcing, your company can gain the expertise it needs. These services can allow your company to grow and gain new business strategies. However, you may […]

Serious Cyber Threats On The Horizon for Businesses and Enterprises: NSA Hacking Tools Leaked Online

In April 2017, a “collection of spy tools allegedly used by the National Security Agency” (NSA) were stolen and leaked online by a group of anonymous hackers calling themselves the Shadow Brokers. These tools, called “exploits,” are software tools designed to take advantage of a flaw in a computer system, typically for malicious purposes, such […]

The NotPetya Ransomware Attack

If you thought the world was safe from vicious ransomware attacks after the WannaCry attack, and its subsequent patch, you were wrong. On June 27, 2017, a possible strain of the Petya ransomware virus (which has been around since 2016) started propagating and infecting organizations in Ukraine, specifically Ukrainian government and business systems, before spreading […]

What You Need to Know About Net Neutrality

The new rules of net neutrality can be dense and confusing. If you haven’t been following along, the novel-length documentation of rules can seem daunting. Here is what you need to know about net neutrality and how its new rules affect you. What is net neutrality? Net neutrality is the idea that all internet traffic […]

3 Steps to Protect Your Company from Ransomware

With the world of technology ever-changing, viruses are evolving with IT; ransomware being the virus making news. Ransomware is a type of malware that allows the creator to lock the infected system’s files in demand for money – a.k.a ransom. How can your company be safe from this malware? As a company, it’s hard to […]

3 Types of VoIP for Business

Voice-over Internet Protocol (VoIP) is emerging as a major way for your company to revolutionize how it communicates. Rather than take phone calls over analog audio signals (a.k.a through a traditional phone), users can instead make calls transmitted over the internet via digital data from anywhere with a broadband connection. What Makes VoIP Great? Simply […]

Customized Software Solutions for Nonprofits

According to the National Center for Charitable Statistics (NCCS), there are more than 1.5 million nonprofit organizations registered in the U.S. That’s 1.5 million organizations that, just like for-profit businesses, must manage to stay in-line with technology’s ever-changing progress — if they want to succeed. Included in that search for staying up-to-date and competitive is […]

Defending Against Insider Threats (Part 2)

Insider Threats can cripple an organization, but a multi-layered security strategy can reduce the likelihood of success. Some of the best practices for guarding against insider threats also apply a range of security issues. When developing your overall security plan, it is important to prioritize implementation as well as establish a ranking of most critical […]

Defending Against Insider Threats (Part 1)

In their “Common Sense Guide to Mitigating Insider Threats 4th Edition,” CERT provides an exhaustive set of recommendations for defending against insider threats. This raises the question, “Can a company actually defend against insider threats?” Insider threats can be stopped, but it will require a layered approach throughout the company. Like many security issues companies […]

Usability and Your Customer

Usability plays a vital role in long-term engagement with your customer. If the tools, services, processes or website that the customer uses to interact with you are not easy to understand or easy to learn, then you may lose customers in the midst of the confusion. At some level every business, should consider all points […]

10 Smart Government IT Trends

In a recent symposium on smart government, Gartner Research analysts suggested that social, mobile, cloud and information are converging and driving innovation that will help establish and develop smart governments. Gartner offers 10 related IT trends that will play a key role in the coming years (see Gartner Newsroom). What is smart government? It might […]

5 Levels of Mobile Security

Mobile security forms a key component of a business’s overall security strategy. The use of mobile devices impacts all size businesses from small to large, highlighting the need for a robust mobile security solution. Earlier this year, Gartner Research released a report listing five levels of mobile security that can help business conduct a assessment. […]

IT for Improving Customer Experience in Banking

The drive for improving customer experience in banking has pushed many financial institutions to embrace new roles for technology. Over the last two years, Bank of America has introduced a range of new services that integrate a range of mobile, communication, and interactive technologies. From back-end infrastructure upgrades to front-facing customer technologies, Bank of America is […]

Mobile Devices from Strategy to Rollout

Implementing a mobile device management plan may seem overwhelming for some organizations. By breaking it down into smaller steps and considering key milestones within each step, the rollout can be more manageable. Once your organization mobile device implementation strategy (for tips see last post), you can begin engaging other members of the organization in a […]

Implementing a Mobile Device Policy

BYOD is fast becoming standard procedure for a range of public places like schools, businesses and even financial institutions. Medical facilities often struggle with implementing a mobile device policy. Some institutions have begun moving toward a policy, but then abandon the project in mid-stream because of the complexities, institutional politics, or other roadblocks. This doesn’t […]

The Future of Big Data in Healthcare

Big data in healthcare offers great potential for improving care, but healthcare agencies face challenges of improving infrastructure, analytics capabilities, and data security, according to “The Big Data Cure” report by MeriTalk.[1] MeriTalk surveyed 150 IT-related executives in Federal Agencies that focus on healthcare and healthcare research. The majority of respondents suggested that less than […]

Finding Value in the Internet of Things

Gartner Research recently conducted a symposium exploring the Internet of Things. Gartner analysts are studying four fundamental usage models that could help businesses take advantage of the emerging technologies. Their goal is to help businesses see through the cluttered of information flooding the market concerning the Internet of Things. “As the Internet of Things grows […]

Infrastructure Virtualization

Over the last several years, the benefits of virtualization have continued to extend into every layer of the business. Now more and more companies are talking about an integrated services platform that will position businesses to expand and adapt to new technologies, to changing demands, and to operational adjustments. Complete infrastructure virtualization will become a […]

Versatile Infrastructure to Meeting Changing Needs

Small to Medium Businesses (SMBs) can leverage the latest advances in technology to increase versatility and performance. In the past, many smaller businesses feared the large upfront investment required to update company infrastructure. Over the last several years, the rapid developments in virtualization technologies have made it easier than ever for SMBs to take advantage […]

Steps toward BYOD Defense

As Hospitals and Medical Facilities extend wireless access, it is essential to develop a robust BYOD defense plan. The public nature of hospitals and the large traffic of visitors, professionals and staff increases the risk of exposing data, violating patient privacy, and malicious attacks. The recent attacks at Target and Neiman Marcus expose the sophisticated […]

Technology Adoption and Utilization in Healthcare

Technology adoption and utilization remains one of the primary challenges facing practicing physicians according to The Physicians Foundation, a non-profit seeking to advance the work of practicing physicians and help facilitate the delivery of healthcare to patients. In their 2014 watch list The Physicians Foundation has listed five critical challenges facing practicing physicians. Practice and Insurance […]

Making Big Data Pay

Successful business leaders are learning ways to leverage big data within the organization. According to an independent study by the the Economist Intelligence Unit, the business landscape is dramatically changing based on the massive level of data being collected each daily. While effective use of big data can be daunting, some businesses have effectively utilized […]

Security and Longline Phishing Attacks

Just as new technologies are changing the workplace, new technologies and methodologies are also advancing among cybercriminals. The recent attacks at Target, Neiman Marcus and others utilized a combination of highly-sophisticated attacks that incorporated social engineering, parsing malware, and more. More and more businesses face the threat of advanced attacks like longline phishing. Proofpoint coined […]

Four Steps in Transforming Your Digital Strategy

Developing an integrated digital strategy can play a key role in planning your business’s long-term future. It not only helps align your technology investment strategy, it may may also help you consider the future of processes and product/service lines within your business. As your business considers developing an integrated digital strategy, McKinsey & Company suggests […]

Developing an Integrated Digital Technology Strategy

What’s your digital technology strategy? While businesses from large to small use technology in almost every level of business, not many business think in terms of an integrated digital technology strategy. The analysts at McKinsey & Company developed an digital technology matrix that can help businesses think about how technology is integrated at every level […]

9 Out of 10 Mobile Apps are Vulnerable

According to a recent HP Research Report, nine out of 10 mobile apps have vulnerabilities that could pose a security threat. HP Security Research tested a representative sampling of mobile applications that included reviewing the security of 2,107 applications by 601 companies listed in the Fortune Global 2000.[1] About 97 percent of the mobile apps […]

Offering Seniors Digital Health Tools

Seniors are increasingly interested in utilizing digital health tools to manage their healthcare. According to a recent study by Accenture 57 percent of American seniors are interested in using digital options for managing their health services remotely.[1] Currently only about one-third of medical facilities are offering digital health tools. How are senior adults interested in […]

The Four Phases of BYOD

Mobility is driving change in your organization whether you recognize it or not. In a recent press release, Gartner Research indicates that the utilization of mobiles devices will transform information security as we know it. [1] Some organizations are still attempting to ignore the BYOD issue, but it’s not going away. According to Gartner, the […]

5 Usability Questions for EHR Installations

Evaluating EHR vendors can be a challenge. While physicians are experts at patient care, software evaluation can sometimes be confusing. In a recent edition of Medical Practice Insider, Linda Stotsky offers 5 core usability questions when shopping for an EHR vendor. An EHR consultant, Stotksy helps professionals sort through the varied challenges.[1] “Docs are great at […]

Using Mobile Devices in SMBs

Even as businesses are still trying to figure out the BYOD challenge, employees are already using mobile devices in the workplace. The rapid rise of smartphones and tablets in the consumer market results in many employees and business owners using the same devices for the workplace. For many business, vital data as well as the […]

Disruptive Technologies That Will Transform Our World

Disruptive technologies are rapidly changing our lives, our businesses and our world. The McKinsey Global Institute released an in-depth study on 12 disruptive technologies that are changing the way we work and live. These technologies bring new possibilities as well as new challenges for governments, business and families.[1] The idea of disruptive technology comes from […]

4 Out of 5 Patients Expect Online EMR Access

Consumers are taking notice of electronic medical records (EMR). More and more patients expect online EMR access, and they are willing to switch doctors for that access. According a recent global survey, 41 percent of patients would switch doctors to gain online access. Accenture conducted a survey with over 9,000 people, covering nine different countries: Australia, […]

How Will Technology Change Your Business? Part 2

Rapidly emerging technologies are driving economic growth and reshaping the marketplace at the same time. Businesses that learn to capitalize on these innovations will thrive in the days ahead. McKinsey & Company recently updated their list of formidable technologies that are creating the future even now. [1] Today I’m covering the second half of a […]

How Will Technology Change Your Business? Part 1

Technology impacts processes, people, and even the products we make and sell. One simple definition of technology from Merriam Webster is “the practical application of knowledge especially in a particular area.”[1] Applying new ideas and new tools in the line of business can fundamentally change the business. By looking ahead to some of the shifts in available […]

EHR and the Value of Workflow Analysis

Workflow analysis and redesign is an essential part of EHR planning and implementation. One link to poor adoption and poor satisfaction with EHR may be related to poor planning. Any EHR implementation requires change. Change is stressful and causes resistance. Without effective planning, changes may actually hinder workflow and create ineffective and time-consuming workarounds. “One important lesson […]

Reducing EHR Risk

Reducing EHR risk must be integrated into transition planning, implementation and follow-up in order to avoid EHR failure, according to Dean F. Sittig, Ph.D., professor, School of Biomedical Informatics at the University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston. “The potential consequences of an EHR failure become of increasing concern as large-scale EHR systems are […]

Small Data Centers for SMBs

As SMBs realize the need for processing, analyzing and protecting data, they face the challenge of effectively managing and developing a small data center within the organization. Managing a data center in an SMB context often means juggling a range of challenges like budget constraints, cultural boundaries and perceptions, and spacial limitations. IT World recently […]

Beware of Zombie Phones

Zombie phones could be bleeding your bottom line. What is a zombie phone? A mobile device that you thought was turned off or turned over to the employee, but your company is still being billed. This is more common than you might think. After auditing the phone usage and phone billing for several companies, Pankaj Gupta, […]

Four Key Benefits of Server Virtualization

Over the past several years, many small to medium sized businesses have been struggling to meet more challenge with fewer resources. As SMBs adapt to the “new normal,” large-scale investments like server virtualization seem to be difficult to justify. Sometimes the technology leaders in the business have a difficult time communicating the extensive value of […]

Challenges of EHR Adoption

Satisfaction with EHR implementations has dropped over the past two years, and new implementations are slowing according to recent study by American EHR.[1] One big problem highlighted by this study is reduced productivity due to the lacking usability. Think about ease of use for a moment. Every day over one billion people visit Facebook through […]

Network Protection through Asset Inventory Control

Understanding and managing device access to your network is an essential safety control for the ongoing security of your network. According to the Center for Strategic & International Studies (CSIS), asset inventory control tops the list of 20 critical security control that can help agencies and business block the most frequent attacks. [1] Established in 2008, […]

Smart Steps to Improve Network Performance

Solving IT challenges in “rapid growth” organizations requires more than just cash flow. Integracon helps organizations address challenges with cost-effective strategic solutions that improve network performance without breaking the bank. One of our clients, a rapidly expanding church, asked us to help them solve some of the performance problems in their network. Integracon developed and […]

No Fail Safe Data Loss Environments

Data loss can happen in any environment and on any device. When some companies choose virtualization, they fail to make proper data recovery plans, assuming the virtualized environment assure data safety through redundancy. Some businesses have discovered the hard way that data loss can impact businesses in any setting. Kroll Ontrack and VMware recently released survey findings […]

Detecting a Computer Virus

At least 16 million U.S. households have suffered a computer virus in the last two years. In spite of the proliferation of antivirus software, families and businesses alike suffer from viruses, worms, phishing, password stealing attacks and more. It is estimated that computer viruses, spyware and phishing have cost U.S. households $4.55 billion dollars.[1] While […]

The Ethical Challenges of Big Data

Gartner recently listed “Strategic Big Data” as one of the key trends that will influence the shape of businesses in the years to come. Big Data is short for the supercomputing possibilities associated with utilizing massive data sets to help us visualize relationships, influence and behavioral propensities. Data scientists are emerging who learn who to make set predictive […]

Service and Speed in the Healthcare IT Cloud

“Imagine the day when H1N1 detection is automated because it’s passively discovered in the cloud,” says John D. Halamka, MD and CIO at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (BIDMC). A respected leader in the healthcare technology, Halamka sees great potential for the cloud to play a vital role in improving healthcare delivery through shared resources […]

Security: Are Software Companies to Blame?

A former hacker spoke out in New York Times recently setting his sites on large software companies. “The unspoken truth is that for the most part, large software companies are not motivated to make software secure,” writes Marc Maiffret. He claims that many software companies prioritize developing more features and functions instead of focusing improving […]

BYOD and Containerization

Some organizations are turning to containerization as way of managing personal wireless devices that interact with company networks. When the University Hospitals Health System in Shaker Heights, Ohio introduced BYOD, they needed a robust MDM solution. Ryan Terry, division CIO and chief security officer, saw problems with many traditional MDM options because he felt that […]

Integrating Analytics in Healthcare

How can healthcare data analysis evolve from crawling to walking (with hopes of running some day)? Dan Reber guest blogged over at The Healthcare IT Guy recently with some helpful suggestions centered on three ways “steps” toward walking. These steps involve rethinking the types of reports generated, the team dedicated to analysis, and the quality […]

Data Breaches: 20 Critical Security Controls

The Verizon Data Breach Investigations Report makes it clear that each organization needs to implement a multi-faceted security solution to address the range of potential threats. Verizon points out that a one-size-fits-all security package is not a solution. Each organization has unique challenges based on type and size of company, processes and procedures, budget, and other […]

Challenges for the Future of Healthcare Networks

Medical facilities face the challenge of upgrading their healthcare networks and providing comprehensive support for the growing demands of digitized information according to a recent report by HIMSS Analytics. In a recent study, “Healthcare Provider Network Solutions, Barriers and Challenges” HIMSS reports that “As health care organizations implement information technology solutions including components of the […]

Tuning IT to Help Drive Business Strategy

As IT shifts from technology maintenance to business strategy, it becomes more valuable throughout the organization. How can an IT team or director facilitate shifting to more strategic actions? Nigel Fenwick at Forrestor offers four steps that can help IT leaders manage the shifting demands on time, projects, and company goals. The heart of Fenwick’s […]

Enterprise Architecture for SMBs

Though the name implies large corporations, the disciplined process of enterprise architecture benefits businesses of all sizes. Strategic planning and implementation needs the comprehensive picture of enterprise architecture combined with the agility of adaptive technologies. IT leaders can help manage the opposing pressure of architecture stability and the drive for an agile organization. In his […]

Four Trends that Continue to Shape SMBs

The economic challenges of the last several years caused many SMBs to move cautiously with technology investments. At the same time, small business owners are trying to find ways to compete more effectively, cut costs, and adapt to the changing markets. Technology offers potential ways for SMBs to achieve business goals. With tighter budgets and […]

The Cloud in Healthcare IT Strategy

After Douglas Menefree joined the Schumacher Group as CIO, he completed a business process review.  He then challenged the software and healthcare divisions of the company to come together and focus their processes in order to best care for people. Menefree helped the overworked IT group shift from developing and maintaining software and systems to […]

Cybertheft of Intellectual Property

In a report on Intellectual Property (IP), CSO suggested that cybertheft is a serious threat for businesses around the world. They wrote, The next big target for cyber-criminals, state governments, organized crime and hackers is IP. One stolen manufacturing process can be worth millions in saved development costs or billions in market share. Estimates show […]

The Challenge of Guarding Ideas

The challenge of keeping valuable secrets confidential is often held in tension with the challenge of being a robust company with opportunity to discover and grow. Some companies lock-down information so tightly it can inhibit workflow, cause unnecessary duplication, and even generate a culture of suspicion. Other businesses may err the other way and lose valuable information that can hurt […]

Protecting Against Insider Threats to Your Organization

How do you guard against employee theft of data without creating an environment of suspicion? By developing and administering an internal security policy, you can keep internal security at a professional level. Here are a few highlights in beginning to consider a plan: Understanding Your Data Monitoring Network Activity Utilizing Data Protection Tools for Various […]

5 Digital Technologies Shaping IT Priorities

Technology remains an underutilized key in realizing business goals, but with the growing embrace of digital technologies that could be changing. According to a recent Gartner survey of over 2000 CIOs, digital technologies are reaching a “tipping point” among business executives.[1] While Gartner reports that businesses realize on average about 43 percent of technology’s business […]

Healthcare CIOs Focused on EHR and Infrastructure

One of the primary technology challenges for healthcare facilities is EHR implementation. According to a study by Level 3 Communications, CIOs are focused on meeting the impending federal deadlines.[1] Over half of those surveyed believe that EHR implementation and Meaningful Compliance will improve overall patient care. In addition to meeting EHR deadlines, healthcare facilities are […]

Healthcare Facilities Must Adapt or Die

While healthcare facilities exist to treat the sick and improve wellness, many of those same facilities limp forward struggling to survive. USA Today reported that on average 89 hospitals had closed per year over the past ten years,[1] while healthcare experts David Houle and Jonathan Fleece suggest that by 2020 one-third of U.S. hospitals will close their […]

Technology and Energy Efficiency In Healthcare

As healthcare facilities consider ways to help lower costs while improving services, they might consider ways that IT can help lower energy consumption. William Pentland at Forbes highlighted the energy consumption problems in healthcare. In “Heal Thy Self: U.S. Hospitals Are Huge Energy Hogs,” Pentland writes that hospitals over 200,000 sq. feet are “gluttonous consumers […]

10 Ways to Improve Network Security

The New York Times reported recently on a Computer Security Institute survey of 443 companies and government agencies. They found that 64 percent reported malware infections and the “financial loss from security breaches was $234,000 on average for each organization.” Here are ten ways to improve network security based on the New York Times article. […]

Big Data in Healthcare

Over the past few years, multiple healthcare experts have been heralding the role big data will come to play in healthcare. With the press for EHR/EMR protocols, healthcare organizations have been digitizing more data than ever before. This massive data collection ultimately will help improve healthcare delivery in quality of care, hospital safety, refining cost […]

Humanizing Healthcare Through Technology

The convergence of technology and healthcare has been rapidly advancing over the last five years. While the possibilities are amazing, one could lose sight of the human patient in the midst of advances. Doctors are facing this challenge of keeping care front and central even in the midst of new advances. As Dr. Paul A. Heineken trains young […]

Plugging BYOD Security Holes

Sophos released a disturbing report that indicates 42% of lost mobile devices in the UK had no security measures in place.[1] Surveying of 1008 consumers in Great Britian, Sophos asked about security measures by mobile device users aged between 16 and 64. According to James Lyne, director of technology strategy at Sophos, “The widespread lack […]

Extending Your Data Center into the Cloud

Computerworld ran a thoughtful article about several organizations that have moved some and/or most of their applications into the cloud.[1] These groups have enjoyed tremendous savings, reduced internal workloads, and enjoyed faster deployments. As any company considers expanding to the web, it is important to process the opportunities and challenges associated with such a move. […]

Underestimating the Consequences of a Data Breach

According to a report from the Ponemon Institute, many small to medium businesses (SMBs) fail to prepare for data breach.[1] In the “State of SMB Cyber Security Readiness: US Study,” Ponemon reports that organizations that had suffered a breach had different expectations from organizations that had not suffered a breach. As a result, many SMBs […]

Developing a BYOD Infrastructure

Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) will continue to grow and be a major challenge/opportunity for businesses in the years to come. The advantages of BYOD are numerous including the following: Reduced costs and responsibility for securing and maintaining smartphones and service plans. Simplified telecomputing for traveling or working from home. Employees can access and respond […]

Cyber Attackers Gain Ground Every Day

In the last few years, government and business cybersecurity experts continue doing better and better, while attackers also continue to do better and better. Steven Chabinsky, former chief of the FBI’s Cyber Intelligence Section, challenges the business and government sectors to adapt, adjust, rethink their approach to cybersecurity or slide backwards. Dennis Fisher over at […]

Green Data in a Culture of Consumption

In spite of the image of environmental friendliness among hi-tech companies, it turns out that many of these companies are high level energy wasters. The New York Times has conducted extensive research into the information industry, and the results are dismal at best. James Glanz at NYT writes, “Most data centers, by design, consume vast […]

Towards a Healthcare BI Plan

Healthcare business intelligence can potentially improve patient care and reduce costs when used effectively within a given facility. At the same time, using BI within a healthcare environment comes with a range of challenges due to the critical nature of the environment, the massive amount of complex data that needs accurate interpretation, and the caution […]

10 Strategic Management Tools

Gartner has identified 10 technologies that are becoming strategic management tools for companies. We’ve discussed many of these technologies and trends in past columns, but it will be helpful for businesses to keep these on the radar when considering strategic planning for future development. “We are already seeing the adoption of ‘big data’ within the […]

BYOD Policy Essentials

Over the past several years, many companies, educational facilities, healthcare organizations and others have opened their doors to a wide-range of personal devices. BYOD or Bring Your Own Device represents a shift in IT perception that asks “How can we support personal devices?” rather than, “How can we block all all personal devices?” This shift […]

Data as a Revenue Generator

Many companies may be sitting on valuable assets that could open dramatic cash flow. Big data is helping organizations uncover patterns in their company, customers and the surrounding culture, but David Newman, research vice president at Gartner, suggests open data may provide the competitive advantage for generating revenue. He explains, “more government agencies are now opening their […]

Reducing Risks with Mobile Devices in Healthcare

From malware to information theft to interruption services, there are a range of serious threats facing the ever-increasing wireless communication in the healthcare environment. While there are serious risks associated with mobile devices (smartphones, tablets, Medical Devices (MDs), and more) in healthcare, there are also incredible benefits. It’s not really an option to lock-down wireless […]

“Managed Diversity” and the Challenge of Supporting Mobility

Information technology advisory firm Gartner challenges IT groups to put priority focus on developing and supporting a mobile device management (MDM) policy. “The era of fully supporting company-owned devices is giving way to an era of managed diversity in which tiered support for employee-owned, consumer-class devices is the norm,” said Terrence Cosgrove, research director at […]

Planning for Disasters

How prepared is your business for a hurricane, flooding, power outages, a tornado? According to The Institute for Business & Home Safety an estimated 25% of business never reopen after a major disaster.  Those who do reopen may still face such surmounting obstacles that they end up closing. 75% of the companies who fail to […]

Desktop Virtualization and EMR

Virtualization offers one way you can help reduce the stress of EMR implementation by speeding adoption while simplifying the demand on clinicians. When you implement desktop virtualization, staff and clinicians can use a thin client for accessing a “virtual” PC that runs on a server in a data center. Easy Access Desktop virtualization simplifies access […]

Ransomware: What You Need to Know (Part 1)

What is Ransomware? Ransomware is malware that enables cyber extortion for financial gain. Criminals can hide links to ransomware in seemingly normal emails or web pages. Once ransomware infects a user’s system, it either encrypts critical files or locks a user out of their computer. It then displays a ransom message that demands virtual currency […]

Ransomware: What You Need to Know (Part 3)

Best Practices to Combat Ransomware Take a layered approach to security A firewall and Antivirus combination are not enough to secure an environment against ransomware. Layers of protection are an important and in-depth part of your defense. Manage network traffic Proper management of network traffic leads to better control of what traffic is on the […]