Located in Avon, Ohio, Great Lakes Computer Corp. has served the Cleveland and Northeast Ohio area’s needs for computer repair and system maintenance for decades. Typically working behind the scenes to keep your PCs, printers, and computer networks running smoothly, it’s not often that we find ourselves in the spotlight. We are therefore very proud to announce that we have been recognized by the US Commerce Association as the winner of their 2011 Best of Avon, Ohio Award in the category of Computer & Computer Equipment Service and Repair.
Great Lakes Blog
Cloud Computing: Get the FREE Cloud Computing EBook from Dell
If you are interested to learn more about finding IT solutions “in the cloud,” we highly recommend this book from Dell as a must-have guide. Chapters include:
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- Defining Cloud Computing and Software as a Service
- Benefits, concerns, privacy regarding using resources in the cloud
- Cloud computing security
- Migrating to and integrating Cloud IT Solutions
- and more…
Cloud IT Solutions-Five Popular Ways Small Businesses Put Them to Use
It’s 9:00 pm, you’re working on a project, and you need to collaborate with a client across the country. Cloud IT solutions called “Cloud Computing” make this possible, evolving into one of the fastest growing types of computer technology for small businesses. The benefits of this type of Software as a Service (SaaS) can be enormous.
In fact, sales of cloud computing software are anticipated to grow by 20.7% in 2011 vs. 2010, and double in sales by 2015 according to a Gartner Group estimate.
With cloud computing, the weary business owner can easily go in the cloud to share information across networks – without leaving the office or even sending an email. Cloud computing technology uses shared resources and information across computers and devices, with no special software or applets (such as Java plug-ins) required. Instead, you simply pay to access the applications that are the most useful to your small business and they are ready to be used instantly, with no installation required on your part. The program is stored in “the cloud,” which means it is hosted on the web and can be accessed by authorized users from wherever they have an internet connection.
The most common delivery method is by subscribing to a service on a per user basis. The vendor manages the application program, so you will always be running the most current version and never need to hassle with maintenance or updates, which is why it is also referred to as software as a service (SaaS). Here are five popular ways small businesses are adopting cloud computing right now:
1 – Simplified Data Storage and System Backup
As a business, secure data storage and reliable data backup is essential. Without this vital data, your business can come to a halt. Cloud computing and SaaS (Software as a Service) technology give you a new method for efficiently storing and backing up data. Cloud computing offers “file server in the cloud,” so your business no longer needs a clunky server. Instead, you can backup files directly with your cloud computing program. Plus, you get access to important files remotely…allowing you to work on the go.
2 – Increased Productivity
Better productivity translates into reduced costs and increased profits. So, it’s no wonder that cloud IT computing technology and software as a service technology is popping up all over.
For example, Google Docs is used by many small businesses because it is easy to use and improve efficiency, and best of all – it’s free. With Google Docs, you can efficiently collaborate and share documents with users anywhere in the world. Plus the application is compatible with Microsoft Office – something other cloud computing programs haven’t done yet. Also, Google offers a collaborative workspace, with features like calendars – allowing your employees to coordinate seamlessly from wherever they have an internet connection.
3 – Streamlined Communications
Strong customer relationships grow small businesses. That’s why companies are offering cloud computing and SaaS technology that help you manage those relationships better.
One such application is Salesforce.com, helping to manage your most important sales leads, customers, marketing campaigns, sales management and report compilation in the cloud. There are also programs that help you communicate with employees and clients across the country, and even the world. For example, DimDim 5.5 is a conferencing solution that handles all your video conferencing needs. You’ll not only streamline your communication, you’ll also reap the rewards of significantly reducing your travel expenses.
4 – Improved IT Support
Small businesses don’t always have IT pros on staff. Cloud computing technology helps solve this problem, with programs like Meraki WIFi Stumbler. This is an online wireless network analyzer – simple enough for any employee to use. It helps you trouble shoot potential problems, such as wireless access point issues and wireless network efficiency. Plus, there are cloud computing and software as a service programs like LogMeIn Central that allow you to connect your PC via the internet to get collaborative technical support.
5 – Automated Accounting
As a small business, keeping good financial records is a priority. Cloud computing allows you to do this with more efficiency with programs such as Outright.com. This accounting service in the cloud helps you track basic accounting needs, like expenses and tax obligations. Another program that uses cloud computing and SaaS is Bill.com. It works for simple small business tasks, like automating accounts payable.
Some Words of Caution:
Although the benefits can be numerous, there are some important things to evaluate prior to moving your enterprise to cloud computing:
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- Application structure – how is the application configured to serve up data to the end users, and how will it integrate with your other systems?
- What will your bandwidth requirements be for the number of users that will be on the system at the same time? You don’t want to have speed and performance bog down.
- Data requirements – how much storage space will your business need? If your storage needs are high, so will be the cost.
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- Security & liability – A survey commissioned by Ponemon Institute showed that half of respondents don’t believe their organizations have adequate technology to ensure cloud infrastructure security. Compare security measures to ensure they are at least equal to what you already have. Great care should be taken to prevent your data or that of your customers from being compromised.
Network and Technology Consulting from Great Lakes Computer
Great Lakes Computer can provide you with experienced advice and assistance for your IT projects. In addition to our own consultants on staff to meet your needs, we have an extensive network of qualified providers that we can recommend in highly specialized areas such as telecom, wiring, system selection, and network installation. Consider a consultation if you:
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Will be moving your systems to a new physical location.
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Need advice or assistance regarding phone systems, video conferencing, cabling or installation.
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- Desire support in setting up a new application to ensure it integrates well with your current system structure.
- Would benefit from advice regarding which application packages or software to purchase.
To schedule an evaluation to determine how we can be of assistance, click here.
Free Info Session: Cloud Computing & SaaS Software as a Service Training
Cleveland and Northeast Ohio small businesses are fortunate to have a great training resource like Corporate College. We’ve taken several of their courses, and believe they offer some great information on Software as a Service (SaaS), IT solutions, and network management.
If you’re a small business located in the Cleveland area and want to learn more about this exploding growth area within business computer services, Corporate College East is holding a FREE information session to discuss their IT Training courses:
Location: Corporate College East, 4400 Richmond Road Cleveland, OH 44128 (specifically, Warrensville Heights, Ohio)
If you don’t have time to attend a formal IT Training course, feel free to contact us with any questions you may have for your business computer service support.
A Buyer’s Guide to Comparing Inkjet Printers vs. Laser Printers
Should you buy an inkjet or a laser printer? The choice can be confusing for a small business owner, but a few simple calculations can help.
Differences in Print Processes 
Inkjet printers transfer tiny droplets of ink directly to the page. A laser printer creates an electrostatic pattern on a drum that attracts ink powder that fuses onto the paper. If you examine the same page printed on both a laser printer and an inkjet, you’ll see that the characters on the laser printer page are sharper. Inkjet printers are getting better all the time though in terms of the sharpness of printed characters. The big difference is in the amount each type of printer will cost over its lifetime.
Determine your printing needs
The basis of your decision depends on what you’ll be using the printer for, and how much you’ll be using it. Printer manufacturers express the durability of a printer in terms of “duty cycle” in pages per month. For example, a typical laser printer will be capable of a duty cycle up to 7,000 pages a month while a typical entry level inkjet printer is capable of up to 500 pages per month. Your first step then is to determine how many pages you print a month, and compare to the manufacturer’s stated pages per print cartridge. You also need to decide how much of your printing needs to be in color, and how much can be done in black and white monochrome. This can lower the cost of ink dramatically since color costs four to six times more than black & white.
Weighing Your Options
In general, inkjet printers are far less expensive than laser printers, so inkjet can be the way to go if your color printing needs are minimal. Inkjet printers have a lower initial purchase cost but here’s the catch – they cost more to run because the ink is more expensive when measured on a per page basis. And ink cartridges need to be replaced fairly often if you print a lot, especially if you’re printing pictures or photos. In general, due to their low price, inkjet printers can be thought of as “throw away” printers, meaning that you should plan on replacing an inkjet printer if it breaks down since the cost to repair it will likely be more than the cost to buy a new one.
Although laser printers can be far more expensive than inkjet printers, the low running cost over time makes them more attractive if your business has a higher demand for print. They also have a better print quality because (in general) they have a higher resolution (expressed in dots per inch – dpi), making them a better choice for the needs of smaller businesses with higher volume and a greater need for high quality.
Toner cartridges for laser printers have a higher unit price than inkjet cartridges, but have a higher capacity so that the cost per page is lower for lasers and, with proper maintenance, they can serve your business well for years. Cost can be reduced even further by using a Managed Print Service provider, who will provide routine maintenance, manage and replace toner cartridges as needed, and provide automated supply ordering and trouble notification, taking printer problems off your IT Department’s “To Do” list. Typically, managed print providers can save a business 10 to 30% on overall printing costs.
Cyber Thieves Targeting Lax Data Security of Small Business
A recent article posted in the online version of the Wall Street Journal (July 21, 2011) had some very sobering news for small businesses: computer hackers and thieves aren’t targeting the data security of the big guys – they’re targeting small business instead. Just ask Joe Angelastri, the owner of a small newstand outside of Chicago, who is featured in the article. A malicious software program (malware)was entered onto his cash registers, sending his customer’s credit card information to Russia. MasterCard demanded that he have the situation investigated at his own expense, costing him about $22,000 that he’ll never get back.
Computer Viruses and Data Security Leaks Are A Growing Threat to Small Business
With larger companies putting big budgets toward thwarting such thieves, hackers see smaller businesses as fertile targets. Smaller businesses are less aware of the complexity of this type of theft, have smaller budgets to apply toward security, and have little or no IT staffs to rely upon. In 2009, the article reports, the U.S. Secret Service & Verizon Communications Inc.’s forensic analysis unit responded to 141 attacks, which jumped to 761 in 2010. A full 63% of these involved companies with 100 or fewer employees, up from only 27% the year before. VISA estimates 95% of credit card breaches are customers of small businesses. If you store your customer’s information, you’re at risk.
Too Complicated to Manage
The types of attacks are numerous and varied, from hidden malware that obtains system passwords from unwary employees, to stealing the banking information of a small business’ payroll system, adding employees, and funneling their “pay” offshore. And don’t expect your bank or credit card company to cover the cost. Investigation and remediation costs, plus potentially losing the ability to accept credit card payments at all, can put you out of business.
Most Small Businesses Are In Denial
A 2010 survey of small- and medium-size retailers in the U.S. done by the National Retail Federation and First Data Corp. found that 64% believed their businesses weren’t vulnerable to card data theft and only 49% had assessed their security safeguards. Don’t be one of them – take these important precautions:
> Be sure ALL your employees know that no one should be given their passwords
> Regardless of how important you think an application may be, use strong passwords. With a weak password, your credit card company can easily pin the blame on you.
> Do your homework to research and install anti-malware and anti-virus data security programs, and have a disaster recovery process in place with regular system backups.
> Never open attachments on emails from people you don’t recognize
> If you’re contacted by someone you think works with your credit card processor or any systems tied into it, be sure to verify exactly who they are with a phone call.
> Get in touch with a professional who can regularly review and update your system’s safeguards, and be sure you have someone knowledgeable to call if you have any suspicions or concerns.
To read the full article: The Wall Street Journal
