Category: Blog

Blog posts from The Unite group.

Here at the Unite Group, we like to keep our clients and network up to date with the information that can help them in their business using our blog pages.

We cover topics such as IT support, Hosted telephony, Cyber security, Digital marketing, and much more. We think it is important to educate our audience using our blog, not only on these topics but to give a behind-the-scenes view on what is going on day to day at the Unite Group and the people who make up our team. Having knowledge of what we offer can help you to make a more informed choice on the services you need and which ones would work best for your business.

If there are topics you would like to see us create content around then drop us an email and we will get these added for you.

  • How per user billing can benefit your Business?

    Per User Billing

    Here at The Unite Group, we understand that your IT systems need to be reliable, they need to meet your business’ needs and just as importantly they need to be cost-effective.

    We understand that your managed IT services need to be both trustworthy, and affordable which is why we bill per user rather than device.

    Per user rather than device

    Per user billing means we charge our IT services per number of employees. The main benefit of this is that your employees can work across multiple devices which won’t involve an additional cost.

    With hybrid and flexible working being a standard of a lot of businesses, we understand that users may work across PCs, laptops, mobiles, tablets and more. And your IT systems must work seamlessly across all devices from any location.

    By charging per user rather than device we massively decrease overheads for your business.

    There’s no limit on your devices

    The best part is – there’s no limit on your devices per user! Meaning your staff can work across as many devices as required with no hidden or additional costs.

    Supporting the user means that you are covered on all devices. If you have any issues across your devices our expert team are here to help you get back up and running. Knowing that your team are always covered means you can get back to doing what you do best!

    Budgeting is made easy

    Not all businesses have the ability to pay a large sum for their IT services. Which is why our per user billing is charged at a monthly cost.

    By outsourcing your IT services to The Unite Group we can reduce your in-house overheads and increase your IT efficiency at an affordable, monthly cost.

    Allowing you to budget your IT services without the quality of your services being affected.

    Fixed costs

    At The Unite Group, we provide a transparent service. We have no hidden fees with our services, meaning you won’t have any unwanted surprises!

    Your managed IT support is charged by per user billing at a fixed, monthly cost. The main benefit of our fixed per user billing means your company can budget your revenue month by month.

    Increased flexibility

    We understand that your IT services need to be flexible and adapt alongside your business’ needs. The Unite Group ensures flexibility for your business as we can decrease or increase your monthly costs depending on your staff levels.

    If you are hiring, users can be added onto your monthly bill. Likewise, they can be removed from your bill, making per user billing a seamless process for your business.

    If you are considering outsourcing your Managed IT Services, you can receive full-service IT support from The Unite Group.

    Enquire today on 0191 466 1050 or email us on info@theunitegroup.co.uk.

    For more expert advice explore our LinkedIn, Facebook and Instagram!

  • What is Managed IT Support?

    What is Managed IT Support?

    An image showing IT support in action.

    Managed IT support is a way for businesses to hire a third-party IT specialist, like The Unite Group, to manage their IT. This can cover aspects such as daily maintenance, cloud support, issue resolutions, data backup and much more. You might be thinking, okay but how is this better than doing it myself in-house? Here’s why!

    Expert Knowledge and Advice

    Here at The Unite Group we understand how important it is for you and your staff to have confidence in their Managed IT. After all it is the backbone of many businesses! That’s why our team of experienced engineers undergo continuous professional development. This ensures that no matter the query they are always best prepared with the most up to date technical knowledge. Ensuring we provide you with the highest standard of service possible.

    Secure Your Data

    Your company’s data is at the core of what you do. If your business was to go offline, we have the backup solutions to keep your business running whilst your data is restored. Our engineers have regular Cyber Security training and are trained on Cyber Essentials. Therefore, we are fully equipped to solve any problem that comes your way! Replication with The Unite Group means that your business is fully covered and ready to respond to any challenges with very little downtime.

    Keep your Business Running Smoothly

    Our Managed IT Support will keep your business running smoothly when your attention is elsewhere. We ensure this by providing daily IT support, Proactive Management and Strategic Planning. We make sure that the service we provide caters to your business’ needs and we adapt to any changes with little downtime.

    Just a Phone Call Away

    The team are on hand to answer any of your queries between the hours on 8:30am until 5:00pm. They can provide IT support via phone call or on site where required. Our Help Desk Engineers can remotely access your IT and can troubleshoot any issues that may arise with little downtime.

    Hardware Procurement

    As part of our Managed IT Support, we will assess your current hardware and how these fit in with your plans. We can then procure new hardware on your behalf, saving you huge chunks of time.

    Instead of spending hours searching for the right laptop model or work phone for your staff, we can do it for you. As we are not tied to any one supplier, we can make sure we find the perfect hardware for your business at the best price. Saving you money as well as time!

    Cost-Effective

    When you outsource your Managed IT Services to The Unite Group, you are working with a company who understands the balance of cost and a quality service. We provide an excellent service but split the cost into monthly payments. This way your IT services are managed at an affordable cost.

    Another main benefit is that we charge per user rather than device. At The Unite Group, we understand that flexibility and mobility is a priority in the workplace. Your employees may use a number of devices from mobiles to laptops to PCs. By charging per user, we save your company a mass amount of revenue, allowing us to be a cost-effective yet reliable IT Support Services Provider.

    Considering Managed IT Support? Why not give us a call on 0191 466 1050 and we can discuss how we can help your business.

  • How Using a Managed IT Service Helps Save Your Business Time

    How Using a Managed IT Service Helps Save Your Business Time

    A huge benefit of outsourcing your managed IT services to The Unite Group is the time we can save your business.

    Hardware Procurement

    As part of our service, we can sit down with you for strategy meetings. In these meetings we will find out everything we can about the needs of your business when it comes to IT. This will involve the assessment of your current hardware and how these fit in with your plans. We can then procure new hardware on your behalf, saving you huge chunks of time.

    Instead of spending hours searching for the right laptop model or work phone for your staff, we can do it for you. As we are not tied to any one supplier, we can make sure we find the perfect hardware for your business at the best price. Saving you money as well as time!

    IT Support

    When an IT issue rears its head, we know how frustrating it can be. Especially if it is affecting the daily functions of your business. With The Unite Group as your managed IT service provider you will not have to waste your precious time trying to fix IT issues on your own or wait a long time for someone to come and fix it.

    Our expert engineers are available from 8:30am until 5pm to provide you with IT Support. Most issues can be fixed with a quick phone call where our engineers can remote access your device. Even when issues require an on-site visit this will be executed quickly. Issues that might have taken time from your business in the past will be a quick fix with us!

    Microsoft 365

    As Microsoft partners we can also get you set up with Microsoft 365. This involves familiar applications such as Word, Excel, SharePoint, and Teams. This familiarity will save you time in training staff as many will have already used them.

    SharePoint will especially help streamline internal business processes. Files can be accessed and synchronised on PC, Mac, and mobile devices. So, no matter where you or your colleagues are, everyone work together effectively, saving time in the process.

    Business Continuity Solutions

    We know there is nothing worse than not being prepared for mayor IT or server issues. Data backup is the core foundation of your systems resilience. Could your business cope with being offline for a day or more when data and systems are recovered from backup only? If not, you need a business IT continuity solution.

    When you outsource your managed IT service with us, our business continuity options can replicate all your servers and important data. This happens in a secure cloud environment and is made available to you within an hour!

    So, if the worst were to happen and your office or server is unexpectedly damaged – one call to us and we can have you fully working and back up and running again quickly.

    Make sure to follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook and Instagram for IT support tips and tricks.

  • Why You Should Consider Microsoft Office 365 as an IT Solution

    Why You Should Consider Microsoft Office 365 as an IT Solution

    A lot of common organisational and productivity-based problems in your business can be solved by simple IT solutions, one of which being Microsoft 365.

    Business Continuity

    Microsoft 365’s cloud infrastructure allows for enhanced business continuity. No matter the situation with your office, home-workers, or user devices all your data and emails are stored safely. This will make writing up your business continuity plan easier as Microsoft 365 covers a lot of the strategy. Furthermore, if one of your staff members was to accidently delete a file these can be recovered by the built-in file recovery system.

    At The Unite Group we aim to provide you with effective IT solutions. That’s why we also provide you with managed backups to ensure your company date is safe, secure, and monitored.

    Centralised Collaboration

    Microsoft 365 gives your business the tools needed to centralise your team’s collaboration. Collaborative tools allow your team to have shared mailboxes, contacts, calendars, and the ability to edit and create documents at the same time.

    SharePoint is key for collaboration and included in the Microsoft 365 package, especially with remote working having become the norm. Files can be accessed and synced on PC, Mac, and mobile devices. So, no matter where you or your colleagues are, everyone can be in the know and work together effectively.

    Increased Return on Investment

    Microsoft 365 allows you to replace many of your teamwork, compliance, and process automations systems you already have in place. This means that you can use Microsoft 365 as an IT solution to drive IT costs down and therefore increase your return on investment. At The Unite Group we can support you with reducing costs across your Managed IT systems. With us, your support is covered through a monthly cost and is charged per user rather than device. This means there are no hidden fees!

    Familiar Applications

    A huge issue with purchasing new software systems is the learning curve you and your staff are faced with. The time it takes to learn new software’s can affect staff productivity and can lead to frustration as daily procedures change.

    Applications such as Word, PowerPoint and Excel are familiar to most people as they are Microsoft’s traditional products. Even if these have updated or changed slightly since some of your staff have used them, they are likely to be much more familiar with them than other IT solutions.

    The Unite Group

    As Microsoft Partners, at The Unite Group we have demonstrated our ability to meet customers evolving needs in today’s dynamic cloud marketplace. We also have access to dedicated partner support. Allowing us to provide a priority support service when we need Microsoft’s assistance to resolve any potential technical issues. As part of our Microsoft 365 Support Services, we can help you migrate to Microsoft Office 365.

    If you are considering outsourcing your Managed IT Services, you can receive full-service IT support from The Unite Group. Enquire today on 0191 466 1050 or email us on info@theunitegroup.co.uk.

    For more expert advice explore our LinkedIn, Facebook and Instagram!

  • Thinking of Switching Outsourced IT Support Providers?

    Thinking of Switching Outsourced IT Support Providers?

    Outsourced IT Support Provider The Unite Group Logo

    Are you thinking about switching from your current Outsourced IT Support Provider? Here is why you should consider switching to The Unite Group.

    We Provide a Cost-Effective Service

    With The Unite Group managing your Outsourced IT Support you will be working with a company who understands the balance of cost and a quality service. We provide an excellent service but split the cost into monthly payments so that your IT services are managed at an affordable cost.

    At Unite we support the people in every business and help them wherever they are on any piece of technology. That’s why we support people not boxes! We don’t count how many desktops, switches, or routers you have. Our job is to keep you and your team working effectively to make sure your IT, whatever it may be, just works.

    We Are Here When You Need Us

    Our expert engineers are on hand to answer any of your queries between the hours on 8:30am until 5:00pm. We provide IT support via phone call or on site where required. Our Help Desk Engineers can remotely access your IT and can troubleshoot any issues that may arise with little downtime.

    Also, when you have Outsourced IT Support with The Unite Group, we will never tell you a piece of equipment is not covered. If it belongs to a supported person our dedicated helpdesk will look to get you back online. It’s as simple as that.

    Supporting your people also means there are no hidden costs or surprises! If the person is covered then we will get them back online even if that’s means coming out to site to investigate issues, we are unable fix remotely.

    We will also never charge you extra for a working on a phone, tablet, or laptop when away from the office. Making sure to support you and ensure we are there to help quickly!

    We step in before it becomes an issue!

    As part of our Outsourced IT Support service, we also work to prevent IT issues from happening, not just detect them. This means we maintain and monitor your IT systems to prevent issues. This involves regularly updating applications in the background and patching hardware and software to fix vulnerabilities.

    Our computers work around the clock, scanning your systems to look for and iron out any potential snags. Therefore, most issues are resolved without you even having to call us.

    However, if you do need help it is as easy as giving us a call and raising a ticket. Our Help Desk Engineers are here to help remotely and see it through to completion.

    We are Microsoft Partners

    The Unite Group are a Microsoft Partner, demonstrating our ability to meet customers evolving needs in today’s dynamic cloud marketplace. We also have access to dedicated partner support. This provides a priority support service when we need Microsoft’s assistance to resolve any potential technical issues promptly.

    If you would like to discuss your thoughts about switching from your current Outsourced IT Support Provider, enquire today on 0191 466 1050 or email us on info@theunitegroup.co.uk.

  • Why you should consider SharePoint as an IT Solution

    Why you should consider SharePoint as an IT Solution

    A lot of common organisational and productivity-based problems in your business can be solved a simple IT solution, SharePoint.

    What is SharePoint?

    Part of the Microsoft 365 package, SharePoint is a cloud-based service suitable for any sized business looking to streamline their communications with colleagues and partners. A platform where sharing documents, information, company processes and much more is made easily accessible by staff across devices.

    As the lockdowns from the COVID-19 pandemic has caused an increased momentum to the already accelerating process of digitisation and cloud computing there has never been a better time to utilise SharePoint.

    As Microsoft 365 Partners, here at The Unite Group we help customers make an informed decision on the right subscription products to match their business requirements. So why SharePoint?

    Improve Productivity

    As a business owner how often do you find yourself unable to find that document in time for that important meeting? Do your staff spend lots of time following paper trails or searching through emails for important company updates? A simple IT solution is to upload all documents to your business SharePoint.

    With all important documents in one place this will free up you and your staff’s time leading to increased productivity. Time can now be spent on the work at hand rather than frustrating searches for lost files!

    Enhance Collaboration & Teamwork

    With all documents, announcements, and updates in one place you will be creating a workspace primed for enhanced collaboration and teamwork. Colleagues can share files and updates in real time as well as collaborate on documents at the same time.

    Need to edit that presentation before an important meeting? No problem, with shared files multiple colleagues can work on the same presentation/document at the same time. Therefore, making this a simple IT solution to a frustrating problem.

    Hybrid Working is Here to Stay

    With hybrid working looking like it is here to stay post-pandemic, it is now more important than ever that every member of staff can access their work from home. Files can be accessed and synced on PC, Mac, and mobile devices. So, no matter where you or your colleagues are, everyone can be in the know and work together effectively.

    Simplify your Business Functions

    How does your business currently handle common business functions such as collecting feedback or tracking issues? Thought about it? I bet there could be some room for improvement, enough to free up some of your precious time. With SharePoint you can integrate workflows designed to automate your common business functions. Making it easier to keep track of day-day tasks.

    Customisable

    One of the best reasons to use SharePoint as an IT solution is that it is customisable to your business needs. Whether it be customising the interface to match your branding or full customisation of workflows. You can make it work best for you.

    Has SharePoint piqued your curiosity? As part of our Microsoft 365 Support Services, we can help you migrate to Microsoft 365.

    If you are considering outsourcing your Managed IT Services, you can receive full-service IT support from The Unite Group. Enquire today on 0191 466 1050 or email us on info@theunitegroup.co.uk.

  • How Cloud-based Technology can tackle Isolation

    How Cloud-based Technology can tackle Isolation

    Unfortunately, we’ve all been there. A productive day in the office stung by an unexpected alert from the Track and Trace app.

    10 days isolation is the last thing you need when you are working on an important project in the office.

    Depending on your profession, this could be 10 days of morning TV – putting a delay on your deadlines – or this could be a seamless transition.

    It is a lot easier for some employees to pack up and work from home than it is for others. This is due to a number of obstacles.

    Cloud-based Technology

    Here at The Unite Group, we are able to adapt quickly when having to isolate.

    This is due to the flexibility of our IT and Communications.

    Our IT and Communication technology is hosted in the cloud, meaning we can work collaboratively from any location.

    All that is required is an internet connection, allowing us to access our files and make calls from home.

    Why you should use cloud-based technology

    If you migrate your data to the cloud, your data will be moved from a physical server on-site to an online server.

    This allows your employees to work flexibly; remote and hybrid working has never been so easy.

    Data in the cloud can be accessed by multiple users simultaneously. Meaning that group projects can remain unaffected by the dreaded isolation text.

    Another benefit of hosting your data in the cloud is that your data can be synchronised and accessed across multiple devices.

    If your laptop begins a 3-hour update automatically, you can access your files almost instantly from your mobile phone, or tablet.

    Hosted Telephony

    Hosted telephony allows you to use IP handsets, mobiles, and desktop applications to make and receive calls.

    Inevitably, this will improve communication within your workplace when employees are working from remote locations.

    The accessibility of hosted telephony, also allows you to work across multiple devices, tailored to your employees needs.

    Cloud phone systems can be easily scaled to new business locations. This also covers remote workers, which is an essential in the midst of a pandemic.

    Advanced features of hosted telephony include SMS messaging, voicemail, Microsoft integration and more.

    The best part of cloud-based technology is that we can create a tailored plan for your business and implement it with little disruption to your working day.

    We can migrate your data seamlessly and install hosted telephony with no initial cost.

    The Unite Group provide continuous support, both remotely and on-site, answering any queries that you may have.

    Cloud-based IT and Communication technology is ideal for small to medium sized businesses and can save a significant amount of revenue.

    Cloud-based technology gives you peace of mind for when disaster strikes, and your office has to isolate.

    Allowing you and your employees to continue working efficiently, meeting deadlines and communicating effectively.

    Want to learn more?

    If this is something that would be of interest to you, why not download our free e-book to learn a little bit more about data migration.

    To do so, follow the link here https://v81r7g62.pages.infusionsoft.net.

    Or better yet contact us and book your free consultation on 0191 466 1050 or email us info@theunitegroup.co.uk.

  • Lloyd vs. Google: Have you got your Cookie Policy?

    Lloyd vs. Google: Have you got your Cookie Policy?

    Have you got your cookie policy? Google are currently under the microscope; this is because Richard Lloyd has made a legal claim against Google in relation to the ‘Safari Workaround’.

    The Safari Workaround allowed Google to bypass default privacy settings in iPhones. This then allowed Google to track browser-generated information to sell for advertising purposes.

    The facts of the case are as follows:

    “The respondent (Lloyd) has issued a claim alleging that the appellant (‘Google’) has breached its duties as a data controller under the DPA to over 4m Apple iPhone users during a period of some months in 2011- 2012, when Google was able to collect and use their browser generated information. The respondent sued on his own behalf and also on behalf of a class of other residents in England and Wales whose data was collected in this way. He applied for permission to serve the claim out of the jurisdiction. Google opposed the application on the grounds that (i) the pleaded facts did not disclose any basis for claiming compensation under the DPA. And (ii) the court should not, in any event, permit the claim to continue as a representative action.“

    The on-going legal battle has highlighted the importance of GDPR and Cookie policies on the internet.

    Meaning that if you’re a business owner, this case is something you should be aware of and comply with accordingly.

    What can you do?

    As a business owner, you are responsible for the data. This for example includes the data that you collect, store, and use when your website is visited.

    Your website should have a Privacy Policy and a Cookie Policy. This policy must explain what details are collected and where you store them.

    Users should have the option to accept or decline your Cookie Policy when entering your website.

    The Cookie Policy should also contain information on how users can opt out of cookies or change their cookie settings.

    You must check that you are compliant with the current GDPR/DPA 2018 guidelines.

    A Cookie Policy deals with the use of cookies on your site. Whereas a Privacy Policy is a general document regarding all the data processes on your website.

    Privacy and Cookie policies are mandatory. If you do not have one of the policies on your website you can refer directly to the ICO to amend this.

    If this is something you are struggling with why not get in touch with Social+ (part of The Unite Group) They can help ensure that your website is fully compliant with these guidelines.

    How can we help?

    Social+ offers website maintenance as part of their services. Their team would be more than happy to take you through the requirements step by step.

    If this is something that you would want to hear more about give us a call. 0191 466 1050 or email on hello@social-plus.media.

  • How does being ISO certified benefit your business?

    How does being ISO certified benefit your business?

    Here at The Unite Group, we have recently achieved ISO 9001 and ISO 27001 certification!

    This achievement is something to celebrate. Having this ensures that we are providing an excellent standard of service to our loyal customers.

    ISO 9001 is a quality management system and ISO 27001 is an information security management system.

    Meeting the standards of an ISO certificate provides your business with a number of benefits. These will improve the validity of your company’s management processes.

    ISO certification sets a standard for businesses and the daily processes which ensure customer requirements are being met.

    This also means that each business has a set of high standardised procedures. By having these procedures in place it means any new employees can easily follow them.

    Businesses that have been granted ISO certification are regulated by the BSI to ensure that any changes that have been made are still meeting the standards of the certification.

    The ISO 9001 standards was updated in 2015. It is the world’s most popular quality management system standard.

    Over one million organisations are ISO 9001 certified. Survey results have found that there is a 60% reduction in the likelihood of mistakes.

    Results have also showed that, products and services provided by these organisations have improved by 66% since being certified.

    Some customers may require that you are certified before agreeing to pay for a specific service. Therefore, showing that being certified can cause an increase in revenue.

    ISO Standards

    The ISO standards are compatible with other certifications, for example ISO 9001 is compatible with ISO 27001.

    This allows businesses, like us, to improve the quality of their management and security processes at the same time.

    This has a knock-on-effect and improves customer acquisition and retention.

    ISO 27001 minimises the risk of a security breach which could have legal implications for your business.

    By following the procedures put in place with the ISO 27001 certification, risk assessments are conducted, and security information is protected from any pre-anticipated risks.

    71% of businesses feel more protected since being ISO 27001 certified.

    BSI will work with you and your business to help you achieve improved management processes and integration with corporate risk strategies.

    In order to continue meeting the standards of the certification, you must regularly risk assess your business and its procedures.

    You must establish correct procedures throughout the company and implement internal reviews regularly.

    By being certified, we have greater protection and confidence in our management procedures, ensuring that we are providing our customers with the best possible service.

    You can call us on 0191 466 1050 or email us on info@theunitegroup.co.uk for more information.

    The Unite Group, to book your free consultation.

  • The Cloud – What is it and How will it Transform Hybrid Working?

    The Cloud – What is it and How will it Transform Hybrid Working?

    We always hear people talking about the cloud, iCloud, the ones in the sky – it can be somewhat confusing.

    Therefore, here at The Unite Group, our aim is to remove all the jargon and to make understanding technology simple.

    The cloud is essentially like a filing cabinet, with all your business’ files inside. Except there is no physical cabinet and everything is accessed via the internet.

    Therefore, it enables multiple users to access the same files and applications across a number of devices.

    Using a cloud computing service allows companies to stop making use of physical servers and allows them to migrate their data and files onto an online server that can be accessed from anywhere.

    As long as you have internet access, your company’s files and data will be readily available to be accessed from the cloud.

    By migrating your data to the cloud, hardware costs are reduced for small to medium sized companies. Therefore the need for these businesses to maintain and update their own servers is removed.

    Not only is the cloud so easily accessible, 94% of businesses report to have seen improved online security since they migrated to the cloud.

    Microsoft 365 is a widely used example of an app which allows you to store your files in the cloud.

    Likewise, Google Drive is an example of a cloud computing service. Consumers often use Google Drive to store their files, photos and more.

    So, now the question is how will it transform hybrid working?

    Well it already has. At one point, everyone except essential workers were working from home and computing services, like the cloud, were an essential.

    The past year the cloud has been vital to helping companies tackle one of their greatest challenges yet.

    Hybrid Working Life

    Office workers are now adjusting to a life of hybrid working models. Individuals may find that they spend two days in the office and three days at home.

    Due to employee expectations since the pandemic, we are very much expecting hybrid working to stay.

    But in order for this new working model to work both effectively and efficiently, businesses need a service like the cloud.

    Cloud computing services make alternating between remote working and office working a smooth and simple process.

    The main benefit being that the files and applications stored in the cloud can be accessed anywhere so long as there is a strong internet connection.

    How can The Unite Group help?

    Here at The Unite Group, we can migrate your data from your current mail server to the cloud. We can make sure that you take all your emails and contacts with you to avoid disruption.

    Our specialist service allows collaborative working from any location to be immediately available for you and your business.

    If you choose to migrate your data with the Unite Group, we will do all the hard work for you.

    We will create and implement a seamless migration plan with little disruption to your working day.

    If migrating to the cloud sounds like something you and your business would be interested in. Get in touch and contact The Unite Group today on 0191 466 1050 or email us on info@theunitegroup.co.uk.