As you and your team return from the holiday break, it’s time to re-engage with your IT environment and ensure a smooth transition back to work. To kickstart the year on a productive note, here are 20 tips to help you revitalise your tech and make the most of your IT environment post-holidays.
System Health Check:
1. Perform System Updates: Start by updating all software and operating systems to ensure you have the latest features and security patches.
2. Check Antivirus Software: Confirm that your antivirus software is current and run a thorough system scan to catch any potential threats.
3. Review Backup Status: Verify the success of your backup systems over the holidays. Ensure that all critical data is intact and retrievable.
4. Reset Passwords: Encourage users to change their passwords for enhanced security. Consider implementing a company-wide password reset.
5. Review User Access: Assess user permissions and adjust them as needed. Ensure that access is granted based on job roles and responsibilities.
6. Multi-Factor Authentication: Strengthen security by implementing or reviewing multi-factor authentication processes.
7. Check Network Security: Review firewall settings and inspect network logs for any unusual activity. Address security concerns promptly.
Operational Readiness:
8. Update Contact Information: Confirm that contact information for IT support and key personnel is up to date.
9. Document IT Changes: Document any changes made during the holiday period for future reference. This includes system updates, security changes, or new configurations.
Communication and Collaboration:
10. Update Communication Platforms: Confirm that messaging and collaboration tools are updated to ensure seamless communication among team members continues. If your organisational policies allow it, activate the GIF function for some extra fun.
11. Review Email Filters: Check email filters for any missed messages during the break. Adjust settings if necessary to improve accuracy.
12. Conduct IT Training: If new systems or software have been implemented over the break, check the right training has been conducted to bring everyone up to speed.
Infrastructure Optimisation:
13. Evaluate Server Performance: Assess server performance and optimise configurations for efficiency.
14. Storage Cleanup: Review and clean up unnecessary files and data to optimise storage space.
15. Cloud Service Check: Verify the status of cloud services and ensure integrations are functioning correctly.
Planning for the Future:
January can often be a quiet for most so it’s typically a good time to check those attention to detail things that often get missed when the business end of the year kicks in.
16. Disaster Recovery Drill: Schedule a disaster recovery drill to ensure your team is prepared for unexpected events.
17. Evaluate IT Policies: Review and update IT policies to align with any changes in technology or company processes.
Employee Engagement:
18. Seek Feedback: Gather employee feedback on their IT experiences during the break and apply insights to improve IT services. Our people are our experts, and their opinions on solutions are extremely valuable.
19. Encourage Reporting: Promote a reporting culture for any IT issues and ensure staff know they can reach out for support.
20. Celebrate Successes: Acknowledge and celebrate IT successes and milestones achieved during the holiday period – no matter how big or small. Cake optional.
By following these 20 tips, you can ensure that your IT environment is not only back in action but optimised for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead in the new year. If you need any help along the way, we’re here for you.
