The Great Tech War of 2012: Are Your Business Internet Services up for the Battle?

The big, iconic brands I recall from my youth (before it had been misspent): Coke, Tide, Esso, GM, Ford and Chrysler. Coke’s easy to understand, Mom always used Tide, while Dad always filled his Buick with Esso gas.

Most of you are too young to know how big a deal the “Big 3” automakers were. The stars of Bonanza hyped Chevy and people really did get excited about next year’s Ford Mustang and the Valiant from Chrysler. The one Toyota in our neighbourhood was  viewed somewhat suspiciously.

Fast forward 45 years, and the NEW big brands are AFGA:  Apple, Facebook, Google, Amazon.

“To state this as clearly as possible: The four American companies that have come to define 21st-century information technology and entertainment are on the verge of war. Over the next two years, Amazon, Apple, Facebook, and Google will increasingly collide in the markets for mobile phones and tablets, mobile apps, social networking, and more.”

The quote is from an excellent article in the November issue of  Fast Company. Be sure to pick one up if you can, it’s a worthy read and a keeper.

You and I, your friends, your co-workers; we likely have one thing in common… we all interact with one or more of these companies, and often on a daily basis.   What’s the common thread, how do we connect?  THE INTERNET.

The time is long past to realize how important high-speed broadband Internet is to your business.

Does your business:

  1. Have fail-over back-up for Internet access?
  2. Have sufficient bandwidth both UP and DOWN, so that staff can work efficiently?
  3. Brand itself on Facebook, or use a Twitter account?
  4. Post blogs, beyond just having a web site?
  5. Regularly check download times from your website?
  6. Pro-actively review Internet security on a regular basis?
  7. Use VoIP and / or Video Conferencing?
  8. Annually review the cost of dedicated Telus / Telco circuits compared to virtual IP services?
  9. Have a strategy for mobile users? 
  10. Have a long-term communications strategy?

Budgeting time and money for any business these days makes for tough choices. Cheaping out on Internet connectivity shouldn’t be one of them. Look, I’m not trying to beat you up about this, but saving $50 bucks on your Internet access just isn’t the same as lowering your heating bill by $50. Internet Access is an investment. Whether it’s an extra $50, or $250 bucks a month, do it right. Consider this an essential investment;  the ROI will strengthen your business for years to come.

Tweet Robert McNulty @crankyphoneguy

ps being a rebel, I don’t use Tide, I drink Pepsi, and I drive a Honda. Oh, and my home office is 100% VoIP, uses HD Video conferencing, and I have a big honkin’ Internet connection with a back up.