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

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

Is Your Phone Compromised? 7 Signs of a Hacked Smartphone Revealed! Welcome back to Techcess, the podcast that keeps you informed about all things technology and cybersecurity. In today's episode, we're diving into the world of smartphone hacking. Whether you're using the latest iPhone or an Android device, it's important to know the signs that your phone may be hacked and what steps you can take to prevent it. We'll cover the seven key signs to watch out for, from unusual pop-ups to increased data usage, and even a camera indicator light that mysteriously turns on. But don't worry, we've got you covered with tips on how to protect your phone and what to do if you suspect it's been compromised. Listen until the end for some intriguing intel, Techcess Annie’s Tech Update and a humorous tech-related joke with “Gigglebytes”. Hi and welcome to the Techcess podcast. I'm Mark Riddell and in this episode I'm talking to you about how you can identify the 7 signs your phone is hacked! Detecting phone hacks The episode lists various ways in which hackers can gain unauthorized access to smartphones. These methods include phishing scams, SIM swapping attacks, malicious apps, unsecured public Wi-Fi networks, exploiting operating system vulnerabilities, and the sneaky technique of "Juice Jacking" through compromised charging stations or cables. The 7 signs your phone is hacked The podcast episode focuses in on the seven signs that can alert users to a potential phone hack security breach. · These signs include · Unusual pop-ups · Increased data usage · The presence of unknown apps · Rapid battery drainage · Inability to log into accounts · Unexpected two-factor authentication code requests · The camera indicator light turning on without user input Recognising these signs can help users take appropriate actions to secure their devices. What to Do If Your Phone Is Hacked: The episode provides practical steps to take if a phone hack is suspected. Firstly, changing passwords, especially for crucial accounts like email, is crucial. The podcast episode recommends some other solutions to the problem including considering a factory reset. What you'll learn from listening to this episode of Techcess Ways your phone can be hacked - Phishing scams (via email, text, or SMS) - SIM...

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

Remote work cybersecurity: protecting your business in a changing work environment! (This episode is accompanied by a free guide. Scroll down below to grab it!) With more and more people pitching up their working desk on the kitchen table, it's crucial to address the subject of remote work cybersecurity. Because without a plan in place, protecting your business is going to become near impossible! You'd be forgiven for failing to understand the security risks involved with having staff based from their homes. Many don't even give it consideration. Sadly, we as an IT support company know only too well how much it can impact on a business both financially and operationally, when something goes wrong! Hi and welcome to the Techcess podcast. I'm Mark Riddell and in this episode I'm talking to you about locking down your business's remote work cybersecurity. From human error to compromised networks, the challenges are real and can have severe consequences for businesses. But fear not! We have some expert tips and advice to help you figure out your remote work cybersecurity and keep your home-based workforce secure. We're also giving you a free guide. You can download it by clicking here: Free guide to keeping remote workers safe What you'll learn from listening to this episode of Techcess Timestamped Summary: 00:03:00 Working from home opens up cyber threats. 00:06:06 Risk of personal device use in workplace. 00:09:30 Cybersecurity requires regular software updates for remote workers. 00:11:38 Secure your WiFi, educate remote workers. Book a free chat with Mark! The giveaway guide! Have you checked out our episode offering a complete guide to buying IT services in 2023 yet? It comes with a free downloadable buyer's guide. Check it out here. Want to get more 'Techcess' in your business? Get more valuable technology insights from m3's blog pages, here. Mark Riddell's technology podcast "Techcess" is an m3 Networks production. Mark and the team have created this podcast to help you and their clients understand how technology can help them in their industry and business, including helping them with cyber security solutions. To find out more about Mark Riddell and the rest of the m3 team, visit them here and follow them on Linkedin. If you want to get in touch about technology or cyber security, just...

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

Protecting Yourself from AI-Powered Scams - with the help of special guest Joe Rogan In this week's episode, we're taking a look at the rising use of AI in scams and how it can impact our lives and business technology. The inspiration for this episoide is all thanks to our host's falling for a scam involving AI and Joe Rogan's voice. As he recounts his story, we explore the growing sophistication of AI in impersonating voices and the challenges it presents in detecting scams. Hi and welcome to the Techcess podcast. I'm Mark Riddell and in this episode I'm highlighting the role of AI tools like Chat GPT in writing convincing phishing emails. But fear not, I'll also provide some tips on how to protect yourself from falling victim to these scams. Join me as I uncover the dangers of AI scams and help you learn how to stay one step ahead in the digital world. Here is the link to the website I mention, from Scotland Is. Here's the link to an article Here's the link to Advice Direct Scotland What you'll learn from listening to this episode of Techcess Timestamped Summary: 00:00:00 How Mark got scammed. 00:04:34 AI tools can now generate phishing emails. 00:08:22 AI technology struggles with details though. 00:10:15 How to validate emails. 00:17:55 Verify endorsements. 00:20:40 Turn to teenagers and online sources. 00:24:17 Weekly Techcess Intriguing Intel and 'Gigglebytes' Book a free chat with Mark! The giveaway guide! Have you checked out our episode offering a complete guide to buying IT services in 2023 yet? It comes with a free downloadable buyer's guide. Check it out here. Want to get more 'Techcess' in your business? Get more valuable technology insights from m3's blog pages, here. Mark Riddell's technology podcast "Techcess" is an m3 Networks production. Mark and the team have created this podcast to help you and their clients understand how technology can help them in their industry and business, including helping them with cyber security solutions. To find out more about Mark Riddell and the rest of the m3 team, visit them here and...

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

The Importance of Knowing the Difference: CC vs. BCC in Email Communication In this episode, we're covering a topic that many people overlook but is critical for email security: understanding the difference between CC and BCC. It's astonishing that in 2023, email remains a common target for cyberattacks and data breaches. We'll explore the reasons behind this and share guidance from the Information Commissioner's office (ICO) on how to send bulk communications safely. We'll also discuss a real-life case of a data breach caused by misuse of the CC field, highlighting the potential consequences of getting it wrong. If you're new, welcome to Techcess, the show that helps you get the right technology and cybersecurity in place to enable your business to thrive. I'm Mark Riddell, host of the Techcess podcast. In this episode I want to explain the importance of understanding the difference between CC (carbon copy) and BCC (blind carbon copy) in email communications. Despite the technological advancements of the modern era, email remains a widely used and vulnerable platform for cyberattacks. Data breaches often result from improper use of CC, posing significant risks to businesses and individuals alike. The Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) has published guidance on this issue, emphasising the need for organizations to adopt appropriate security measures when sending bulk emails. The Consequences of Misusing CC The ICO has observed a disturbing trend of data breaches caused by incorrect usage of CC. These breaches have the potential to cause real harm, especially when sensitive personal information is involved. NHS Highland, an NHS organization, was reprimanded after inadvertently exposing the email addresses of individuals accessing HIV services due to a CC error. The ICO's response highlights the severity of such breaches, as this incident could have resulted in a significant fine if it had occurred in the private sector. Protecting Personal Information Even if an email does not contain sensitive content, the mere knowledge of who received the email can inadvertently disclose confidential information. It is crucial for organisations to assess and implement appropriate technical and organisational security measures when sending bulk emails. Training staff on security protocols is also essential to reduce the risk of data breaches. Considering alternative secure methods, such as bulk email services or mail merge, can help prevent accidental disclosure of personal information. Useful links I mention in the episode that you might like to check out https://ico.org.uk/about-the-ico/media-centre/news-and-blogs/2023/08/ico-publishes-new-guidance-on-sending-bulk-communications-by-email/ https://ico.org.uk/for-organisations/uk-gdpr-guidance-and-resources/security/email-and-security/...

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

The new 'Y2K' for businesses is coming. Are you prepared for it? Hi, this is Mark Riddell, host of the Techcess podcast. In this week's episode, we'll be discussing a significant event that will impact businesses across the UK – the big switch off of the public switch Telephone Network (PSTN). I'll be breaking down what this switch off means for your business and why it's essential to be prepared for it. From the migration to VoIP telephony to the potential impact on fax machines, security cameras, and more, we'll explore all the key aspects to ensure a smooth transition to a fully digital future. So grab your headphones, earbuds and your ears, and get ready to upgrade your tech knowledge with Techcess! Here are a couple of other related episodes you might find interesting. VoIP episode SOGEA episode The big switch off - an impending change for uk businesses The UK's public switch Telephone Network (PSTN) is set to be switched off in December 2025, signaling a significant change for businesses across the country. I'm sharing the implications and impact of the switch off, urging businesses to be prepared for the transition. The analog PSTN has served businesses well over the years, but it is unable to keep up with the demands of modern communication. Therefore, the move towards a fully digital future is underway, where everything will run over the internet. This shift will not only affect phone systems but also other devices such as fax machines, security cameras, door entry systems, and EPOS machines. planning the migration from analogue to digital Businesses need to plan for migrating away from analog lines and embracing more modern and up-to-date technology, such as VoIP Telephony. I recently changed my home broadband circuit from a traditional analogue line to a digital line using a technology system called SOGEA, which is solely for broadband. This transition allows for cost savings and simplification. Make a list so nothing gets missed! To successfully navigate the switch off, businesses are advised to create a list of all the analog-dependent devices within their operations. Neglecting to identify and transition these systems could lead to disruptions, such as non-functional alarm systems or inaccessible CCTV cameras. It's often the overlooked components that cause the most problems. Although the switch off poses challenges, it also presents opportunities for businesses. Traditional phone lines may be fading, but they will be replaced by better alternatives. Many businesses are already utilising VoIP phone systems, which offer additional features and improvements over traditional analog systems. Embracing these new technologies can enhance efficiency and productivity for businesses in the long run. What you'll learn from listening to this episode of Techcess Timestamped Summary: 00:02:39 Plan migration away from analogue lines. 00:04:33 Cost decreased but service...

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

You know what it's like. Trying to send an email and then you find out - file too large. Argghhhhh! Good news. Microsoft is about to solve this. Learn more about this on this week's new "Tech Update" bonus episode. If you want to check out our full episodes, covering everything from how to protect your business from a phishing attack, through to how you can effectively manage your patching systems, check them out here - https://www.techcesspodcast.com/episodes/ Want to get more 'Techcess' in your business? Book a free chat with Mark! Get more valuable technology insights from m3's blog pages, here.

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

We've all been there. Reaching for our phone where we expect it to be and... oh no. Where is it? That sinking feeling starts to take hold as you realise you've got all your sensitive business data and info on it. Well, the good news is there could be a solution for this around the corner. Learn more about this on this week's new "Tech Update" bonus episode. If you want to check out our full episodes, covering everything from how to protect your business from a phishing attack, through to how you can effectively manage your patching systems, check them out here - https://www.techcesspodcast.com/episodes/ Want to get more 'Techcess' in your business? Book a free chat with Mark! Get more valuable technology insights from m3's blog pages, here.

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

Is it true that the software giant is actually trying to hack you? It's possible! Sort of. Learn more about this on this week's new "Tech Update" bonus episode. If you want to check out our full episodes, covering everything from how to protect your business from a phishing attack, through to how you can effectively manage your patching systems, check them out here - https://www.techcesspodcast.com/episodes/ Want to get more 'Techcess' in your business? Book a free chat with Mark! Get more valuable technology insights from m3's blog pages, here.

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

Have you integrated Google Calendar into your workflow? Then their latest update might be of interest to you. Learn more about this on this week's new "Tech Update" bonus episode. If you want to check out our full episodes, covering everything from how to protect your business from a phishing attack, through to how you can effectively manage your patching systems, check them out here - https://www.techcesspodcast.com/episodes/ Want to get more 'Techcess' in your business? Book a free chat with Mark! Get more valuable technology insights from m3's blog pages, here.

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

Unless you've been living under the sea for over a year, you'll be aware of AI tools like ChatGPT and Google Bard. But have you been fully leveraging them to grow your business? We're going to share some ideas for how you can do so. Learn more about this on this week's new "Tech Update" bonus episode. If you want to check out our full episodes, covering everything from how to protect your business from a phishing attack, through to how you can effectively manage your patching systems, check them out here - https://www.techcesspodcast.com/episodes/ Want to get more 'Techcess' in your business? Book a free chat with Mark! Get more valuable technology insights from m3's blog pages, here.