top of page

How does it work?
Long read, but necessary.

In today’s digital-driven world, small businesses rely heavily on technology to operate efficiently. Managing IT infrastructure effectively is critical for minimizing downtime, enhancing productivity, and ensuring security. Here’s why an IT Binder, Onboarding IT Inventory Audit, and Regular IT Audits are essential for small business owners

An IT Asset Binder serves as a central repository of all your IT-related information, providing an organized, easily accessible record of everything related to your business’s technology infrastructure. It typically includes:

  • Hardware Inventory: Details of all devices such as computers, servers, printers, and networking equipment.

  • Software Documentation: Licensing information, software versions, and subscriptions.

  • Network Configuration: Diagrams of network setups, router settings, and firewall configurations.

  • Passwords & Credentials: Secure storage of critical access information.

  • Support Contacts: Vendor and IT support contact details.

What We Do During the Onboarding IT Audit:

  1. Hardware Inventory:

    • We identify and catalog all hardware assets, including computers, servers, printers, routers, switches, and other network devices.

    • Each item is labeled and recorded with details like make, model, serial numbers, and current condition.

  2. Software Inventory:

    • A complete review of installed software, licenses, and operating systems is conducted.

    • We document software versions, subscription statuses, and license expirations to ensure everything is properly licensed and up-to-date.

  3. Network Configuration Review:

    • We analyze your current network structure, including routers, switches, firewalls, and connected devices.

    • Network diagrams are created or updated, showing how all devices are interconnected and how data flows within your network.

  4. IT Infrastructure Assessment:

    • We evaluate the overall condition of your infrastructure, identifying any outdated hardware or software that may need upgrading.

    • This includes assessing backup systems, storage solutions, and cybersecurity measures.

  5. Asset Tagging and Labeling:

    • Each piece of equipment is physically tagged and labeled to make it easy to identify, track, and manage in future audits.

  6. Security & Compliance Check:

    • We review your IT security measures, including firewalls, antivirus software, and data protection policies.

    • We assess your compliance with industry standards and regulations, identifying any potential security vulnerabilities.

  7. Cable Management and Equipment Cleanup:

    • We clean up your equipment, organize and manage cables, keeping them neat and hidden wherever possible. This not only improves the aesthetic of your workspace but also prevents cable tangling and enhances airflow, contributing to better equipment longevity and performance.

  8. Documentation:

    • A detailed report is generated that outlines all findings from the audit, including a complete list of assets, network diagrams, and any areas needing improvement or attention.

Expected Results of the Onboarding IT Audit:

  1. Complete Asset Overview:  â€‹â€‹You will receive a comprehensive record of all your IT assets, including hardware, software, and network components. This provides a clear baseline for managing and maintaining your IT infrastructure moving forward.

  2. Accurate Network Map: A detailed network diagram will show how all devices and systems are connected. This map serves as a vital reference for troubleshooting, upgrades, and future audits.

  3. Improved Asset Management: The inventory and tagging of all assets make it easier to track equipment, manage replacements, and ensure all licenses are up to date, reducing the risk of wasted resources or unexpected downtime.

  4. Identification of Weaknesses: Any outdated hardware or software, potential security vulnerabilities, or gaps in your network infrastructure will be identified. This allows you to plan for necessary upgrades, enhancing system performance and security.

  5. Actionable Recommendations: The final audit report will include a list of recommendations to optimize your IT environment, such as upgrading aging hardware, renewing software licenses, or improving network security protocols.

  6. Foundation for Future Audits. The onboarding audit creates a solid foundation for future regular IT audits, ensuring that your systems remain up to date and efficient as your business grows.

What We Do During the Regular IT Audit:

What We Do During the Onboarding IT Audit:

  1. Up-to-Date IT Inventory:

    • You will have a clear, updated view of your hardware and software assets, including any new additions, replacements, or decommissioned equipment. This ensures continued accuracy in managing your IT infrastructure.

  2. Enhanced System Performance:

    • By identifying and addressing any underperforming hardware or outdated software, your systems will run more efficiently, reducing the risk of slowdowns or failures.

  3. Improved Network and Security:

    • Regularly reviewing network configurations and security measures keeps your systems secure and protected against emerging threats. This also ensures that your network is configured optimally for current business needs.

  4. Cost Efficiency:

    • By proactively identifying issues such as worn-out hardware or unnecessary software licenses, you can plan for replacements and upgrades in advance, avoiding unexpected costs and downtime.

  5. Minimized Downtime:

    • The audit identifies potential issues before they become critical, helping prevent unexpected system failures or prolonged downtime. This keeps your business running smoothly and with minimal disruption.

  6. Compliance Assurance:

    • Keeping your IT infrastructure compliant with industry regulations is crucial for avoiding penalties and legal issues. The audit ensures that your systems meet all necessary compliance requirements.

  7. Actionable Recommendations:

    • The final report will provide actionable insights, such as hardware that needs replacement, software updates required, or security improvements to implement. This allows you to address issues quickly and stay ahead of potential risks.

  8. Long-Term IT Planning:

    • Regular audits help you anticipate future IT needs, such as equipment upgrades, additional storage, or enhanced security measures. This helps you plan your budget and IT strategy with greater accuracy.

  1. Review and Update Hardware Inventory: 

    • We assess any changes in hardware since the last audit, including new purchases, decommissioned devices, or upgrades.

    • We ensure that all equipment, such as computers, servers, and network devices, is still functioning as expected and document the current condition of each asset.

  2. Software Audit:

    • We review all software licenses, subscriptions, and versions to ensure compliance and that no licenses have expired.

    • Any newly installed software is documented, and outdated software is flagged for updates or removal.

  3. Network Configuration Review:

    • We re-evaluate the network setup to ensure that configurations are still optimal for your business needs.

    • This includes verifying that routers, switches, and firewalls are functioning correctly and identifying any changes or additions to the network.

  4. Security Review:

    • We perform a thorough check of your cybersecurity measures, such as firewalls, antivirus software, and encryption protocols.

    • We look for potential vulnerabilities, such as outdated security software or unpatched systems, and provide recommendations for improvement.

  5. Cable Management Check:

    • We ensure that all previously installed cable management solutions remain neat and functional. If any cables have been moved, we reorganize and clean up the setup to maintain optimal airflow and accessibility.

  6. Asset Performance Analysis:

    • We analyze the performance of your hardware to determine if any components are nearing the end of their lifecycle. Devices that show signs of wear or reduced performance are flagged for replacement.

  7. Data Backup Review:

    • We assess your data backup solutions to ensure they are functioning properly, up to date, and capable of protecting your business in case of data loss.

    • We check for any gaps in the backup process, such as missed schedules or unbacked files.

  8. Compliance Check:

    • We verify that your IT infrastructure remains compliant with relevant industry standards and regulations, updating documentation where needed.

  9. Documentation Update:

    • We update your IT Binder or asset management system to reflect any changes or findings, ensuring that your records are always accurate and up to date

bottom of page