Last week, one of our clients ran out of hard drive space and needed to restore their data from backup. Unfortunately, they discovered that a third-party IT provider had changed the process. So, they had a backup from the prior night, but not from the day before that.

Today, another client called because their server failed, and they were looking to recover their data.  Their third-party IT provider was having difficulties because they were not familiar with Sage Timberline Office.

There are morals to these stories.

First, call your accounting software vendor immediately when a problem emerges.  Do not wait a day or two.  It can mean the difference between a quick solution and expensive surgery.

Second, audit your IT provider and make sure they are giving you the services and protection you require.  You get what you pay for.

Third, consider using IT support that takes the time to know your software and systems.  IT generalists may be cheap, but are increasingly unable to deal with the individual needs of small and medium sized businesses.  You are not generic.

At CIS, we’re happy to provide IT support, or to help you audit your third-party supporter.  Either way, we don’t want you to lose your data . . . or your sleep.  Talk to IT Group Manager Rod Hatley at rod.hatley@cisinfo.com, (704) 971-3175.

Towner Blackstock
towner.blackstock@cisinfo.com