Providing Customers With a Technology Plan for Continued Operations

“We are in unprecedented times, but this doesn’t mean businesses can’t continue thriving,” stated Mark Lasinis, CIO/Vice President of Technology of Imagine Technology Group. “With a shift in approach and proper technology, a business can set itself up for successful continued operations.” Imagine Technology Group starts by evaluating an organization’s existing technology and then creates a plan to optimize operations and employee productivity with the right technology that supports both remote and on-site workers. While more restrictions may be on the horizon, there is no reason why most businesses cannot adapt and thrive, especially with a solid technology plan. Our technology plan is a simplified solution and consists of five main components. Ensure Effective Voice Communication Not all business phone systems are created equal. Many small to mid-sized businesses using older systems faced significant challenges in transitioning their employees to work from home while maintaining effective communication with customers and team members. In contrast, companies leveraging modern cloud voice technology experienced a much smoother and seamless transition. Cybersecure the Home Office With 45% of home office PCs being infected with malware, many companies’ critical information is at risk. Protecting home office PCs must be done with the same diligence as office PCs. Cyberattacks have surged, and hackers are increasingly targeting remote workers since the pandemic began. Proper Remote Workforce Management Imagine Technology Group is a premier member of Technology Assurance Group, an organization of leading managed technology services providers (MTSPs) across the United States and Canada, representing $500 million in products and services. As a result, Imagine Technology Group has the proper techniques and processes to successfully manage a remote workforce. In return, ITG teaches its customers these best practices to help them maximize the performance of remote employees. Ensure the Home Office is Functional One of the best practices for managing a remote team is to meet over video conferencing as frequently as possible, rather than just via phone calls. Employers need to ensure that employees have a functional home office with a PC/laptop equipped with a camera and mic to make the most of video meetings. Some employees may also need access to a printer/scanner if the office is not fully paperless yet. Provide Necessary Collaboration Tools Without the benefit of physical proximity, employees must rely more heavily on collaborative tools like Microsoft Teams, video conferencing, and instant messaging. These solutions must be carefully selected to ensure seamless integration. Microsoft Teams offers all of these features, but employees must be trained to maximize its potential. “Imagine Technology Group custom-tailors technology plans to meet specific needs for continued operations,” commented Mark Lasinis. “We’re taking a leadership position in the face of our current collective predicament, and proactively helping our customers persevere through restrictions or reopening guidelines.” ABOUT IMAGINE TECHNOLOGY GROUP Imagine Technology Group (ITG) is an Arizona-owned and operated company offering our customers a single point of contact for all their office technology needs. ITG provides a wide range of document management solutions, workflow improvements, multi-function devices, VoIP phone systems, digital signage, managed network services, and IT solutions. With our manufacturers’ National Programs, we can provide service and support anywhere in the world. Our goal is to be our customer’s “ONE SOURCE” for any office technology solution they might need. Through top-notch customer service provided by well-trained employees, ITG manages your technology so you don’t have to. To learn more about our products, services, and support, please submit an inquiry at itgarizona.com/contact-us. “We are in unprecedented times, but this doesn’t mean businesses can’t continue thriving,” stated Mark Lasinis, CIO/Vice President of Technology of Imagine Technology Group. “With a shift in approach and proper technology, a business can set itself up for successful continued operations.” Imagine Technology Group begins by evaluating an organization’s existing technology and then creates a plan to maximize operations and employee productivity with the proper technology that supports both remote and on-site workers. While more restrictions may be on the horizon, there is no reason why most businesses cannot adapt and thrive, especially when they have a strong technology plan. Our technology plan is a simplified solution and consists of five main components. Ensure Effective Voice Communication Not all business phone systems are created equal. Many small to mid-sized businesses that use older systems faced severe challenges sending their employees home with the expectation to communicate effectively with customers and fellow employees. On the other hand, those companies that leverage today’s cloud voice technology experienced a much easier and seamless transition. Cybersecure the Home Office With 45% of home office PCs being infected with malware most companies’ critical information are at risk. Protecting home office PCs must be done with the same due diligence as PCs in the office. Cyberattacks are at an all-time high and hackers are preying on remote workers with greater frequency since the pandemic started. Proper Remote Workforce Management Imagine Technology Group is a premier Member of Technology Assurance Group, organization of leading managed technology services providers (MTSPs) in the United States and Canada representing $500 million in products and services. As a result, Imagine Technology Group possess the proper techniques and processes to successfully manage a remote workforce. In return, Imagine Technology Group teaches its customers these best practices so they can be successful in maximizing the performance of remote employees. Make Sure Home Office is Functional One of the best practices for managing a remote team is to meet over video conferencing as frequently as possible, instead of just via phone call. Employers need to make sure that employees have a functional home office with a PC/laptop that has a camera and mic to get the most out of videoconferencing meetings. Some employees also need access to a Printer/Scanner, in case the office is not fully paperless, yet. Provide Necessary Collaboration Tools Without being in physical proximity, employees must rely on collaborative tools like Microsoft Teams, video conferencing and instant messaging more than ever before, so these solutions need to be carefully selected so that they integrate well. Microsoft
Forecasts on What the Future of Work-From-Home Could Look Like After COVID-19

With people working from home in large numbers, there is growing speculation about the future of the modern workplace in terms of remote, on-premise, and hybrid staff. With experts predicting that a vaccine may arrive in 2021, many business owners are assessing their options and planning for the future now. As a trusted IT advisor, Imagine Technology Group is helping companies develop solutions to address this new workplace reality. The data regarding employee sentiment about working from home (WFH) is clear. According to a survey from the New York Times and Morning Consult, “In a survey of 1,123 remote workers…86% said they were satisfied with the current arrangements – even when that sometimes meant working from their bedrooms or closets.” Furthermore, 47% of those surveyed reported being “very satisfied” with their current work setup. This is not surprising, given the freedom, flexibility, and productivity gains often seen with WFH. However, business owners still face questions such as, “How do I effectively manage my team? How do I keep our network secure with everyone working remotely? Which employees need to remain in-person versus remote? How do we foster collaboration and maintain company culture?” The pandemic is forcing companies to answer these questions sooner than they might have planned, particularly before lease renewals. “Unfortunately, due to health concerns, the ‘open floorplan’ concept is no longer going to be an option for most companies,” said Mark Lasinis, CIO/Vice President of Technology of Imagine Technology Group. “As a result, we’ll see two major trends. Some businesses will downsize their office space and redirect those savings to improve their IT infrastructure for a fully remote workforce. Others that reinvest in commercial real estate will need more space due to social distancing requirements.” Some workers will move to “50/50” offices, splitting their time between the office and home, such as working in-office for three days and remotely for two. Additionally, as employers explore geographic arbitrage—hiring remote workers from areas with lower costs of living while paying them less than they would in high-cost cities like San Francisco—WFH could expand to 4-5 days per week for most employees. These shifts come with added complexity. As WFH becomes the standard, small and mid-sized businesses (SMBs) must address the demands it places on IT. “Business owners need to understand that if you have 30 employees and one main office, you now need to treat that situation as if you have 31 distinct offices,” said Lasinis. “Each employee will require a dedicated internet network, firewall, access to the private company network, and thorough cybersecurity measures.” Currently, 45% of home networks are already infected with malware, including keyloggers that capture passwords and send them to hackers. Historically, IT departments have not been tasked with securing home offices because of the inherent complexity, including multiple users on the same network. The network is only as secure as its weakest link. For instance, if someone’s child is playing online video games, this could expose the network to threats. The challenge for IT departments becomes deciding how to manage those risks. Imagine Technology Group is leading the charge in consulting with businesses to create a clear transition plan to whichever version of WFH suits their needs. “Fortunately, the technology that Imagine Technology Group deploys enables our customers’ employees to be just as productive at home,” Lasinis added. “We work with our customers to customize solutions that support their WFH objectives.” Success Story: ITG Helps Accounting Firm with Virtualization (itgarizona.com) ABOUT IMAGINE TECHNOLOGY GROUP Imagine Technology Group (ITG) is an Arizona-owned and operated company that offers a single point of contact for all office technology needs. ITG provides a wide variety of document management solutions, workflow improvements, multi-function devices, VoIP phone systems, digital signage, managed network services, and IT solutions. With our manufacturers’ National Programs, we can provide service and support anywhere in the world. Our goal is to be our customer’s “ONE SOURCE” for any office technology solution they might need. Through top-notch customer service provided by well-trained employees, ITG manages your technology so you don’t have to. To learn more about our products, services, and support, please submit an inquiry at itgarizona.com/contact-us. With people working from home in droves, there is plenty of speculation as to where the modern business is headed in terms of remote staff, on-premise staff and hybrid staff. With some experts expecting the earliest vaccine to arrive sometime in 2021, most business owners are assessing their options and planning for their futures, now. As a trusted IT advisor, Imagine Technology Group is helping companies to map out solutions to address the new workplace reality. The data is crystal-clear when it comes to employee sentiment about the brave, new world of work-from-home (WFH). According to the New York Times and Morning Consult, “In a survey of 1,123 remote workers…86% said they were satisfied with the current arrangements – even when that sometimes meant working from their bedrooms or closets.” Furthermore, more than half of that number, 47% reported they were “very satisfied with the current arrangements.” This isn’t a surprise because of the obvious increases in freedom, flexibility, and productivity spikes which are all natural byproducts of WFH. However, many business owners are still asking themselves questions like, “How do I effectively manage my team? How do I keep our network secure with everyone working-from-home? Which portion of my workers will need to remain in-person vs. remote? How do we foster collaboration and strengthen the company culture?” While the answers to those questions are still moving targets, the pandemic is forcing companies to make these decisions before their lease renews. “Unfortunately, due to health concerns, the ‘open floorplan’ concept is no longer going to be an option for most companies,” stated Mark Lasinis, CIO/Vice President of Technology of Imagine Technology Group. “As a result of this shift, we’ll see two major movements. First, some businesses will opt to downsize their office space and to reallocate their reduction in cost to strengthen their IT infrastructure as they go full bore
Success Story: ITG Helps Accounting Firm with Virtualization

At ITG, we pride ourselves on providing solutions that empower your business. Recently, we helped a large accounting firm by migrating their data from on-premise servers to the cloud, setting up 165 virtual desktops, and significantly enhancing their cybersecurity. The Problem The accounting firm was facing several challenges that were hindering their productivity. They operated across three sites with inefficient connections, and their technology was outdated. Many of their servers were running on operating systems that were nearing their end-of-life, leaving the firm vulnerable to cyber threats. As an accounting firm handling sensitive financial information, this posed a serious risk. In addition, their outdated technology was generating frequent IT issues, leading to a high volume of support tickets. The situation was so severe that ITG had to dedicate weekends just to manage the backlog of tickets. The Solution ITG created a comprehensive plan to transition the firm from three disjointed networks into a unified cloud environment. We began by upgrading application-specific servers and consolidating redundant services. This included transitioning from an end-of-life Exchange and Citrix environment to Microsoft Office 365 and implementing a modern Virtual Desktop Infrastructure. Throughout the entire process, the firm experienced zero downtime. We reduced the number of servers by over half, migrating everything to a secure data center. This included transferring several terabytes of data and setting up 165 Virtual Desktops. With all their data and virtual desktops housed in the same data center, the firm no longer experienced the application crashes that had previously plagued their operations. We also bolstered their cybersecurity by implementing multi-factor authentication and additional security protocols. The Result We completed the entire migration over a weekend, with servers going offline on Friday evening and fully operational by early Monday morning. The firm experienced minimal downtime, and none of it occurred during regular business hours. Today, they are far more efficient and productive. Data and file sharing between their three locations is seamless, and IT-related service calls have dramatically decreased. Moreover, their cybersecurity is now more robust, ensuring the protection of sensitive client information. As a result, the accounting firm is not only more efficient but also more profitable due to the reduction in IT issues and the boost in operational productivity. Our commitment to your business’s success sets us apart from the competition. When you partner with ITG, you receive exceptional customer service and a dedicated team focused on making your technology work for you. Contact us to learn more about our services, and let us help your company become more productive and efficient. Submit an inquiry at itgarizona.com/contact-us. At ITG, we pride ourselves on our commitment to providing services and solutions that will empower your business. We recently helped a large accounting firm by moving their data from on-premise servers to the cloud, setting them up with 165 virtual desktops, and drastically increasing their cybersecurity. The Problem The accounting firm was experiencing numerous issues that were impacting their ability to efficiently complete work-related tasks. They had three separate sites that were inefficiently connected, and they were experiencing multiple problems. Many of their servers were using operating systems that had an end-of-life that was quickly approaching. Once support stopped, their servers were going to become very vulnerable to any cyber threats. As an accounting firm responsible for maintaining the security of people’s financial information, this was unacceptable. In addition, their outdated technology was causing them to submit multiple tickets and was impacting their ability to operate efficiently. Their IT issues were so frequent that it required ITG to work weekends to stay on top of the tickets. The Solution ITG developed a plan to transition the firm from the three separate networks into a cloud model. To begin, we upgraded application-specific servers and consolidated redundant services. This included converting from an end-of-life Exchange and Citrix environment to Microsoft Office 365 and a more modern Virtual Desktop Infrastructure. The firm experienced zero downtime during this process. Additionally, we cut the server environment to less than half of their previous amount and migrated them all to a secure data center. We transferred several terabytes of files and configured 165 Virtual Desktop. All of their data and the Virtual Desktops are in the same rack in the data center, eliminating all of the issues they were experiencing with their applications crashing. Additionally, we solidified their cybersecurity by implementing multi-factor authentication as well as a few extra security measures. The Result We were able to accomplish this migration over a weekend, with their servers going down on Friday evening and were back up and running early Monday morning. The downtime their company experienced was minimal, and not during normal business hours. Overall, the accounting firm is much more efficient and productive than they were previously. They can efficiently share data and files between the three locations, and their IT service calls have reduced dramatically. They also have much more robust and up-to-date cybersecurity to ensure the protection of their data network. The accounting firm is more profitable due to the increase in efficiency and the decrease in IT-related issues. Our dedication to your business’s success is what separates us from our competitors. When you partner with ITG, your business will get unrivaled customer service and an unmatched dedication to ensuring that your technology provides all the benefits your company needs. Contact us to learn more about our services and let our dedicated team get to work on helping your company become more productive and efficient.
5 Benefits Businesses Gain From Having a Remote Workforce

Businesses have been forced to either transition to a remote workforce or temporarily halt operations until they can safely reopen. This shift has led many business owners to explore the long-term potential of remote work, given the considerable advantages it offers. While there are numerous benefits to adopting a fully or partially remote workforce, here are five key advantages that cannot be overlooked: Lower Costs for Businesses and Employees One of the most significant advantages of a remote workforce is the reduction in operational costs. Without the need for office space, businesses can save on rent, utilities, office furniture, janitorial services, maintenance, and more. Employees also benefit by cutting out commuting expenses, saving on gas, parking, or public transportation costs. Higher Productivity Contrary to the common misconception that remote employees are less productive, studies have shown the opposite. Research, including a survey from Airtasker, reveals that remote workers are often more productive than their office-based counterparts. They tend to work longer hours and complete tasks more efficiently, debunking the myth that working from home leads to distractions and decreased output. Better Disaster Preparedness A remote workforce allows businesses to remain operational during disasters that would otherwise force an office shutdown. By already having systems and tools in place for remote work, companies can minimize the cost of downtime, and in some cases, avoid it altogether. Reduced Employee Turnover Employee retention is crucial for small businesses, as constant turnover can disrupt operations and increase hiring and training costs. Remote work has proven to boost retention rates, with remote employees being 13% more likely to stay in their roles than onsite workers. Additionally, 74% of workers agree that the ability to work remotely would make them less likely to leave their employer. Access to a Larger Talent Pool Hiring the right talent can be challenging when restricted to the local population. With remote work, businesses can tap into a global talent pool without needing to convince candidates to relocate. This provides access to top-tier talent from anywhere in the world, significantly expanding hiring options. As businesses continue to experience the benefits of a remote workforce, many are considering turning their temporary solutions into long-term strategies. Don’t miss out on the advantages remote work can offer—contact ITG today to get started on building your remote workforce. Submit an inquiry at itgarizona.com/contact-us. Businesses everywhere have been required to either switch to a remote workforce or cease operations till the quarantine is over and their offices can open again. This has made working remotely something that every business owner has been looking into for its long-term applications. As the considerable benefits of a remote workforce are hard for many businesses to ignore. While there are many valuable benefits that a business can undoubtedly gain from switching to a fully (or even partial) remote workforce, there are 5 key benefits that simply can’t be ignored: 1. Lower Costs for Businesses and Employees One of the biggest advantages of switching over to a remote workforce is how much it reduces operational costs for businesses and how much it saves for employees. When everyone is working from home you don’t need to pay for office space, office furniture, the utility bills needed to maintain the office, janitorial costs to keep everything clean, maintenance and installation costs, and so much more. Meanwhile, employees don’t need to pay for commuting to work every day and dealing with the problems all means of travel could financially present. 2. Higher Productivity A common miss conception about remote working is the level of productivity employees will have when in a home environment versus an office one. While many would think remote workers would be less productive than their office counterparts, but that’s actually not true. Not only has a survey from Airtasker shown that remote employees are more productive, but other research has supported this as well. Multiple studies have proven that they are far more willing to work overtime and get work done faster than office workers. 3. Better Disaster Preparedness Undoubtedly having remote employees helps make disasters have less of a direct impact on your operations. As you already have the necessary tools and proper systems established to keep your business working in situations that would force offices to close down. This leads to the cost of downtime being substantially reduced or to be non-existent in some cases. 4. Reduced Employee Turnover Employee retention is vital for many small businesses. Every position is vital for maintaining operations, and the cost of hiring and training over and over again can take its toll. That’s why doing what you can to ensure employees stay is important, and remote workforces are one of the best ways to do it. Statistics show that remote workers are 13% more likely than onsite workers to stay in their jobs over an extended period. 74% of workers also agree that the ability to work remotely would make them less likely to leave their employer. 5. Access to a Larger Group of Potential Employees Any business can tell you that hiring for specific positions and company rules is challenging. As the talent pool is mostly limited to the local population, as convincing someone to move for a job can be difficult. However, that was before remote working became an option. Now businesses can have access to top talent from anywhere in the world and without having to sell them on uprooting themselves for said position. A remote workforce has many benefits that businesses are finding harder and harder to ignore. Lots of companies are now looking to turn their short term remote working plan into a long one, as they stand to gain a lot from it. Don’t let your business miss out on everything working remotely has to offer, call ITG and get started on your remote workforce today.
IT Support In Phoenix- Is Outsourcing Best For Your Company?

Outsourced IT support can save time, money, and valuable resources for businesses in Phoenix. Whether your company is small or large, keeping your technology organized, both internally and externally, can be challenging. One of the most common questions we receive is, “Does our business need IT support?” The answer is usually a resounding “yes!” To help you understand why, we’ve created a breakdown of the potential benefits of outsourcing or supplementing your IT department. As your business grows and becomes more complex, keeping up with the latest technology can be time-consuming and expensive. Whether you have no IT department or an in-house team, here are the key benefits of outsourcing IT support for your Phoenix business. What Are IT Support Services? Before deciding if outsourcing is right for you, you might wonder what IT support professionals can offer. Imagine Technology Group provides access to a skilled team that helps assess your needs and delivers tailored solutions. These services include: Network management and security Help desk support Server management Client business reviews Outsourcing Is Cost-Effective For many businesses, cost savings are one of the biggest advantages of outsourcing IT support. Hiring and training IT staff can be expensive, whether you recruit experienced personnel or need to train new employees. Additionally, you’ll need to provide office space, equipment, and ongoing training, which adds to the expense. By outsourcing to ITG, you gain access to trained professionals who work from their own offices and already have the necessary equipment, saving you money on space, equipment, and specialized software. Access to a Greater Range of Expertise Handling IT support internally can be overwhelming and stressful. When you outsource to ITG, you benefit from a broader range of expertise than a single in-house IT professional could provide. This ensures faster problem resolution and prevents costly delays that could affect your business. A dedicated team of professionals can analyze and address issues more efficiently. Lighten the Load on Your Team You may have assigned IT support duties to an employee or rotated these responsibilities among several staff members. This can distract them from their primary job functions, adding unnecessary stress and lowering productivity. Outsourcing IT support allows your employees to focus on their core tasks, leaving IT management to professionals. Improve Your Cybersecurity Every business is at risk of cyberattacks, and this can be especially concerning for small business owners with limited network security. Technology is constantly evolving, and IT support teams are equipped with the latest tools to combat cyber threats. Outsourcing to a team like ITG helps identify vulnerabilities and fortify your defenses, keeping your data and that of your customers secure. Quick Response in Case of a Cyberattack While it’s uncomfortable to imagine a worst-case scenario, it’s essential to prepare for one. Cyberattacks occur every day, and if your business experiences a data breach, your reputation and operations could be at risk. Imagine Technology Group can provide immediate support, helping you recover quickly and minimize damage. Their expertise ensures that your business remains operational, even in the event of a cyberattack, and they will guide you in implementing measures to prevent future incidents. Why Outsource with Imagine Technology Group? Managing an IT department on top of running your business can add unnecessary stress. By outsourcing IT support to a skilled team like ITG, you can streamline operations, access enhanced security features, and benefit from a range of resources. Imagine Technology Group offers a hassle-free experience, helping businesses in Phoenix maintain, grow, and protect their operations. They provide top-notch cybersecurity solutions, eliminating the need for in-house IT teams and allowing you to focus on what matters most. Ready to discuss remote IT support? Contact Imagine Technology Group today and let us help your business succeed. Outsourced IT support saves time, money, and other resources for many companies in Phoenix. Whether small or large, your business is now at the forefront of all your decision making. Keeping technology well organized, both internally and externally, can be a challenge. One of the most common questions we receive is; Does our business need IT support? The answer is usually, “yes!”. We created a detailed breakdown of the potential benefits of outsourcing and/or supporting your IT department. As your business grows more spread out and complicated, you may find that trying to keep up with the latest technological advances is too time consuming and becomes a financial burden. You may not have an IT department at all or you may have in-house staff. These are the benefits of outsourcing IT Support for your business in Phoenix. What are IT SUPPORT SERVICES? Before you decide if outsourcing is right for you, you may be wondering what general services IT support professionals can provide to you and your business. Imagine Technology Group can provide you with access to a professional team with varied skills to help you assess your needs and provide you with a solution. This includes: Network management and security Support desk Server management Client business review OUTSOURCING is Cost Effective For most businesses, saving money is one of the most important benefits outsourcing can provide. Hiring and training IT support staff can be very expensive. You will need to either hire pre-trained and qualified IT staff or hire someone who is experienced to train the new staff. This can take time out of your regular business day, costing you even more money. You will also have to take into account that the support staff will need to be provided their own office and equipment. Outsourcing with ITG would provide you with trained staff who work from their own office and already have their professional equipment. You will not have to spend money out of pocket to set up an additional office area with specialized equipment and software that may not need to be used that frequently. Have Access to a Greater Range of Expertise Handling IT support tickets on your own can be disastrous, as well as stressful, for your business. Outsourcing to ITG ensures that
Phoenix Data Backup and Recovery

Would Your Business Survive a Disaster? Could your business handle a fire, server crash, or power outage? Do you have a plan in place for data backup and recovery in the event of a catastrophe in Phoenix? If not, now is the time to consider why. Is Your IT Prepared? The safety and accessibility of your data are critical to keeping your business running smoothly. Protecting it from potential threats is essential. In the event of a disaster in Phoenix, would your company be ready for data recovery? Ask yourself these key questions: Is your data backed up, either off-site or in the cloud? Do you have backups of your most essential applications? Can your customers still contact you in case of downtime? Do you have a disaster recovery plan, and does your team know how to follow it? If you answered “no” to any of these questions, it’s time to upgrade your data backup and recovery plan. You never know when disaster might strike, and being prepared in advance means your business will be ready to bounce back. Data Recovery and Backup in Phoenix To create an effective backup and recovery plan, follow these essential steps: Enterprise Security Program Assessments Enterprise Security Program Development Business Impact Analysis Threat & Risk Assessments Business Continuity, Backup, and Disaster Recovery Planning Incident Response Program Management Your data backup and recovery plan should be customized to fit your business needs. It’s not just about having a plan in place — it’s about creating a system that’s reliable in any emergency situation. Phoenix Data Recovery Services At Imagine Technology Group (ITG), we recognize that every business has unique priorities. We take the time to analyze your business operations to identify critical needs and develop a strategy tailored to your setup. We start by assessing your current security program to determine what’s working and what’s not. Then, we strengthen your plan, ensuring comprehensive coverage for all potential disaster scenarios. Our goal is to provide a solution that is secure, user-friendly, and ready to deploy when needed. Having a disaster recovery plan is important, but ensuring it can be effectively executed is crucial. ITG will train your ownership, management, and staff to follow the recovery plan, retrieve backups, access essential applications, and resume business operations as quickly as possible. Our focus is on efficient incident response, minimizing downtime, and reducing any negative impact on your business. Creating Secure Data Backups When it comes to safeguarding your data, you have two main options: local backups and cloud backups. Local backups store your data in a physical location, providing access even if you lose internet connectivity. Cloud backups ensure your data is protected even if your office equipment is damaged or destroyed. By combining both methods, you can ensure your data remains safe in virtually any situation. Your backup system should integrate seamlessly with your recovery plan, giving you the ability to quickly access your information if an issue arises. Don’t Fix the Problem — Prevent It Don’t wait for disaster to strike before implementing a data backup and recovery plan. ITG can help you save time, stress, and money by preparing your business for any emergency. We’ll show you exactly what you need to be ready for the unexpected and ensure that, in the event of an issue, you can recover quickly and get back to business. Ready to discuss your business’s data backup and recovery strategy?Contact Imagine Technology Group today! Would your business survive a disaster? What about a fire, a server crash, or a power outage? Do you have a plan for data backup and recovery in the event of a catastrophe in Phoenix? If not, why not? Is Your IT Prepared? The safety and accessibility of your data is a key aspect of keeping your business running, so it should be protected from anything that could damage your business. If Phoenix was struck by disaster, how should your company prepare for data recovery? To find out, answer these questions: Is your data backed up, either off-site or in the cloud? Do you have backups of your most essential applications? Can your customers still contact you? Do you have a disaster recovery plan, and do your employees know how to follow it? If the answer to any of these questions was “no”, then your data backup and recovery plan needs an upgrade. You never know when disaster will strike, and preparing in advance means you’ll be ready no matter what. Data Recovery and Backup in Phoenix We recommend these planning steps for the backup and recovery of your data. Enterprise Security Program Assessments Enterprise Security Program Development Business Impact Analysis Threat & Risk Assessment Business Continuity, Backup and Disaster Recovery Planning Incident Response Program Management Your data backup and recovery plan should be tailored to your needs. In addition to planning, you should create a system that gives you everything you need in an emergency situation. ? Phoenix Data Recovery At Imagine Technology Group, we understand that every business has different priorities. We analyze our client’s business to figure out priorities and create a strategy that works based on their unique setup. In order to do this, we asses the current security program to see what works and what doesn’t. Then, we strengthen the plan to make sure there’s coverage in every potential situation. Our goal is to make the plan safe, easy to use, and ready when it’s needed. It’s one thing to have a disaster plan, it’s another to use it properly. ITG makes sure that ownership, management, and employees know exactly what to do if things go wrong. They’ll know how to retrieve backups, access applications, and get back to work as soon as possible. We show how to respond to incidents in a timely and efficient manner, minimizing any damage to business. Creating Secure Data Backups When it comes to backing up your data, there are two options: local and cloud backups. Backing up your data locally means your data
How Digital Transformation is Changing Business in Arizona

Digital Transformation: Changing the Way We Do Business Online sales overtook in-store sales for general merchandise in 2019. Even McDonald’s began replacing cashiers with kiosks in 2018, and we’re all familiar with the now-common telephone voicemail call trees. The digital landscape is reshaping customer service and interactions, as well as revolutionizing back-office functions. From automated billing to just-in-time inventory management, technology is changing how businesses operate. In Phoenix and throughout Arizona, the digital transformation of business presents exciting opportunities for growth and improvement. What Is Digital Transformation? Serving customers isn’t new, but how businesses serve customers is changing. Much like how the telephone once revolutionized business communications, today’s technologies are transforming operations. These changes influence everything from processes and culture to customer experience expectations. Digital transformation goes beyond simply moving from paper and spreadsheets to computers and the cloud. It’s about rethinking how to engage with customers, build loyalty, and increase efficiency. Instead of just doing the same old things faster, digital transformation encourages businesses to use new tools in innovative ways. There are countless opportunities to improve efficiency and decision-making if you take the time to reimagine your processes. The ultimate goal is to provide a more personalized and superior customer experience. Every Business Is a Tech Company Around the world, digital transformation is shaping societies. For instance, Finland and Sweden lead the charge in Europe, with half of all companies using cloud services. Transactions in these countries are nearly cashless, with most payments made via card or mobile phone. In the Middle East, Israel is investing over $275 million to digitize national health records as part of its effort to advance drug development. Meanwhile, Singapore is making strides to become a “Smart Nation” with significant government funding. Here at home in Phoenix, local government investments in digital infrastructure are attracting companies like Uber, Yelp, and Shutterfly. For mid-size and small businesses, digital transformation is about integrating technology into all areas of the organization. Opportunities to Engage Customers Is your business ready to provide seamless service both online and in person? Today’s customers are always connected — nearly all American adults carry mobile phones, and almost 75% have internet access at home and work. Mobile devices, apps, and predictive search functions allow customers to get what they want when they need it, transforming their expectations for service. Customers are now more informed and have more options than ever before, and often, their first interaction with your business is digital. Digital-First Thinking A digital-first approach means rethinking how you interact with customers. It’s about building relationships instead of relying on cold calls. It’s proactive, not reactive. At the customer service level, it means adopting the communication channels your customers prefer, such as Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook. Websites, reviews, forums, and fan communities are also part of this ecosystem. In marketing, digital transformation means shifting away from offline strategies like billboards, radio, and TV and instead focusing on data-driven, personalized messages. This approach leverages customer relationship management (CRM), search engine marketing, and targeted email campaigns. For sales teams, digital transformation enables a more thoughtful approach. Instead of saturating the Phoenix area with cold calls, savvy salespeople use social media to share expertise and build meaningful connections. Initiate Your Digital Transformation To ensure success in transforming your business process and culture, focus on these three fundamental areas: Targeted Customer Interactions Customers expect companies to treat them as unique individuals. They want to be recognized by name, and they expect personalized service based on their purchase history and preferences. Using a CRM system is essential for recording customer interactions, analyzing data, and creating highly targeted content. Seamless Experience Across Channels With today’s “always-on” technology, customers expect round-the-clock service. It’s essential for businesses to be accessible and responsive across multiple channels — in person, over Twitter, via an online help desk, or by email. Your goal should be to provide a unified customer experience, regardless of when or where interactions occur. The Right IT Environment Technology is essential for powering a digital strategy, yet many companies hesitate due to cost concerns. Managed IT services offer a way to maintain a dynamic, flexible infrastructure without the expenses of managing servers, networks, or software updates. Change the Way You Do Business Arizona businesses ready to move beyond simply doing things faster should embrace digital transformation to improve their operations. By focusing on customer engagement, seamless experiences, and the right IT infrastructure, you can build a better, more efficient business. Here’s how to get started: Focus on processes that add value instead of just speeding up old ones. Use CRM to record customer interactions and leverage data for targeted communications. Build an IT environment that supports your digital transformation efforts. Ready to discuss your business’s digital transformation strategy?Contact Us Today! Online sales surpassed in-store sales for general merchandise in 2019. Venerable McDonald’s added kiosks to replace cashiers beginning in 2018. And all of us have experience with the ubiquitous telephone voicemail call tree. The digital landscape has changed the face of customer service and interaction. It’s also changing the way the back-office functions, too. Automated billing, just-in-time inventory, even mobile phones have changed the way we do business. Here in Phoenix and in Arizona as a whole, the digital transformation of business opens up opportunities for growth and improvement. Read on to learn more. What Is Digital Transformation? Serving customers isn’t new, but HOW you serve customers is changing. Just like the telephone revolutionized business communications, new technologies change the way businesses operate. The change affects processes, culture and customer experience expectations. The digital transformation is no longer just about moving from paper and spreadsheets to computers and the cloud. There are opportunities to re-think how to engage with customers, build loyalty and increase efficiency. Instead of doing the same old things faster, digital transformation is about using new tools in a new way. There are many opportunities for improvement if you just ask yourself to create a better way to be more efficient. Or maybe
Your 4-Step Guide To Streamlined Print Management

Streamline Your Print Management: A Four-Step Guide from ITG Managed Print Services (MPS) is crucial for thousands of businesses, yet it often doesn’t receive the attention it deserves. While printing supplies support projects, marketing, and internal communications, many companies overlook the need for an efficient system. This oversight can lead to wasted time, prolonged project timelines, and lost marketing opportunities. Streamlining your print management is essential, and here’s ITG’s four-step guide to optimizing this vital resource. 1. Choose the Perfect Printer As one of Arizona’s leading providers of copiers, printers, and scanners, we understand the unique needs of our customers. When selecting the right printer, consider the following key factors: Your Industry: Does your printer need specific capabilities, like OCR (optical character recognition) or tracking for chargebacks? Company Size: How many printers do you need? Are you looking for local or network printers? Printing Needs: Will your printer be used for internal documents or marketing materials? Do you need a machine that can handle production runs? Environmental Impact: Does your business have green initiatives that your printer should comply with? Are you seeking more eco-friendly options? Finding the right answers can be challenging, but at ITG, we offer free consultations with our printer experts. We’ll help you assess your needs and compare machines to find the best fit for your business. 2. Integrate Custom Software The printing software your company requires depends on your specific operations. You may need industry-specific software to enhance printer functionality. Here are some useful features offered by custom printer software: Secure Printing: Protect sensitive information with secure printing software that requires authorized sign-ins for certain document types. Document Distribution: Avoid wasting time retyping notes from printed documents. With document distribution software, you can scan documents, convert them to editable formats, and share them for collaboration. Eco-Friendly Measures: Reduce your carbon footprint by implementing features like individual printing limits, eco-friendly default settings, and usage tracking to minimize costs and unnecessary printing. If you want to learn more about how custom software can enhance your efficiency, reach out to us. A good printer can become an invaluable tool when paired with the right software, and we’re here to help you reach that next level. 3. Connect with Your Customers Are you struggling to meet customer outreach targets? Streamlining your printing process enables you to produce more materials in an organized manner, allowing for larger, more efficient marketing campaigns. At ITG, we provide various solutions to overcome obstacles in your client outreach efforts. With our extensive experience working with businesses of all sizes, we can tailor our approach to fit your unique methods. This can increase your material output while reducing mailing costs, helping you create everything from thank-you cards to custom packaging. This is your opportunity to get creative in how you connect with customers! 4. Automate Your System The first three steps will help you establish a strong workflow, but maintenance is crucial. Many businesses lack a dedicated employee to manage their printing systems, which can diminish productivity as other staff members struggle with paper jams or connectivity issues. The solution? Automation. Many aspects of your printing process can be automated. For example, automate supply orders and software updates to minimize maintenance tasks. Additionally, designate one or two employees to handle printer issues. Training them for a few hours will save countless hours of frustration for their colleagues dealing with error messages or toner replacements. Automation can also simply mean streamlining processes to require less effort. Implement an Electronic Document Management System By following these four steps, you can create a streamlined print management system that effectively utilizes your printing tools. We understand that navigating the available products and determining what suits your needs can be daunting. That’s why we offer a free technology assessment on our website. Just provide your contact details, and one of our industry experts will reach out to discuss your needs and available options. You’ll receive tailored advice, ensuring you get a printing system that meets your requirements. Streamlining your print management will free up time and resources, allowing you to grow your business, achieve your goals, and communicate more effectively. Ready to enhance your print management system?Contact Us Today! Managed Print Services is an integral part of thousands of businesses, but it’s rarely given the attention it deserves. Despite providing key materials for projects, marketing, and internal communication, most companies haven’t taken the right steps to make sure their system runs smoothly. This results in wasted time, longer project times, and missed marketing opportunities. It’s a lot to lose, meaning that streamlining the way your company prints is something you can’t afford to skip. Here’s ITG’s four-step guide to how you can streamline your print management and use this valuable resource in the most effective way. 1. Choose the Perfect Printer As one of Arizona’s top providers of copiers, printers, and scanners, we have expert knowledge in what our customers need from their office technology. Key factors to consider when choosing the right printer include: Your industry. Does your printer need copying and scanning abilities? Do you need a printer with industry-specific abilities, such as OCR (optical character recognition) or tracking abilities to charge back for prints and copies? Company size. How many printers do you need? Are you looking for a local or network printer? What you’ll be printing. Will your printer be used for internal documents, or marketing materials? Do you need a machine that can print production runs? Environmental impact. Does your business have any green initiatives that your printer needs to comply with? Are you looking for a more eco-friendly option than your current model? It can be difficult to find the answers to all these questions, and to figure out how important each of these factors should be when making your decision. Luckily, at ITG we offer free consultations with our printer experts. We can help you determine your printer needs and compare machines to find the best match for your business. 2. Integrate











