Need an affordable work from home (WFH) solution fast?

Posted on August 11, 2021 by Oak & Bluebird

Need an affordable work from home (WFH) solution fast?

Right now in April 2020, the world is currently facing an unprecedented situation that is transforming the way we live and work. A nation can do as much planning as possible for situations like these that come around once in a blue moon. Yet, it's almost impossible to predict how the population will react. This time, it's panic buying.

Items are selling out at rapid rates as people prepare for an uncertain future. Everything from toilet paper, pasta, DIY supplies to computer monitors are disappearing. Pictures of empty shop shelves are being shared on social media, fueling the panic.

For a business owner plunged into the world of remote working, this panic is likely caused by uncertainty over having the right equipment to let you and your employees work from home. You may have recently found that this immediate change can be a very costly exercise, especially for large teams and if your staff members need specialised IT equipment.

7 Work From Home (WFH) Essentials

No matter what your day-to-day job involves, there is a bundle of essential IT gear that most office-based workers need to effectively work from home:

- A laptop. Unfortunately, it's not realistic to lug a big office computer home.

- A monitor for a second screen to work on.

- Cables to keep them connected.

- Keyboard and mouse. Bluetooth is ideal.

- Phones. You can even have access to your office line via a softphone.

- Essential software and application access.

- A printer. Not all staff will need one, but for some, it may be important.

The cost of this WFH setup could be upwards of $2,500 per person. If you don't already have most of these essentials for your staff, this is a fortune to pay upfront, particularly if you have a large team.

How to Mitigate Financial Stress

The best way to mitigate this financial stress - particularly when revenues might be tight - is to avoid the upfront cost. Fortunately, there are various options available to help you get around the large upfront cost of a sudden move to work from home.

Option 1

Rental of hardware only for a monthly fee under a managed service agreement.

Option 2

For laptops and computer hardware, there is a per-seat managed monthly plan model, DaaS (Device as a Service). DaaS is a life-cycle service that provides the rental of hardware, consultation, setup, ongoing maintenance and replacement of office technology, all rolled into an affordable, fixed per-person monthly plan.

Important Considerations

Software

- What are your communication needs? E.g. video conferencing and instant messaging

- What do you need for your business to succeed online? E.g. eSignature programmes and digital forms such as e-forms

- What are the specific needs for different roles in your business? E.g. payroll software

Phones

- Desk phones. Do your traditional office desk phones need to be able to operate from your employee's home? Do staff need to take these home?

- Softphones. Could you remove the need for a physical desk phone and use a mobile app that allows you to make and receive calls, just like you're in the office?

- Diverting calls. Do you need to set up call diversions from office phones?

How We Can Help

We is here to help you with your transition to Work From Home so you are set up for success and to ensure the changes you make have long-term benefits. Right solutions and expertise to help you implement this.

We have the right services for your specific needs, all packaged within a monthly plan, without the upfront costs. These include:

IT Hardware, including laptops and monitors, as a rental, with extra services included in Device as a Service plans, such as:
- Service and support
- Analytics
- Device optimisation
- Run ups
- Security and updates

Cloud-based data storage, including file access for your team and your own cloud network

Softphones and other business telephony systems

Printing/ scanning and Document Management Solutions (DMS), including:
- Digitising paper forms
- Scanning solutions

Affordable Long Term Solution

We works with you for the long term. We are also a small-medium enterprise (SME), so we understand the current challenges and needs that many businesses are facing right now. We are a real-life example of how a transition to working from home can happen quickly and seamlessly.

We successfully transitioned to a working from home model almost overnight, enabling our 130+ staff to work remotely with no interruption to service or business workflows. During this shift to working from home, we've even seen an improvement in overall communications and some productivity increases within our teams. We want to help you do the same.

NBN rollout map: 9 ways to prepare for the move

Posted on August 11, 2021 by Oak & Bluebird

office NBN rollout map: 9 ways to prepare for the move

The National Broadband Network (NBN) rollout is well underway, connecting more than 40,000 premises across Australia every week to a faster and more reliable internet network. If your business or office communication systems are landline-based, you will have no other choice but to migrate to the new network within 18 months after it has reached your location. Otherwise, your premises may be cut off from the telecommunications network.

But what does it mean to be prepared for the NBN rollout? Here are 9 vital things to know:

1. The NBN Co Might Pull the Plug on the Existing Network in Your Area Soon

NBN Co intends to connect 11.7 million premises by 2020. So, most likely, the organisation will switch off the existing network in your business location soon.

2. Don't be Caught Off Guard: Know Your Disconnection Date

Keep your switch-off date in mind when preparing your NBN migration timetable. Once the NBN reaches your area, you may have up to 18 months to upgrade and migrate. When the "migration window" expires, you'll be disconnected from your old internet and phone service. Don't put your business at risk and wait until the very last month to migrate as the date of installation can take longer than expected, depending on NBN Co's schedule. To avoid downtime and revenue loss, be sure to plan well ahead for a smooth transition.

3. How to Check Service Availability in Your Business Location

Visit the NBN rollout map and type your address in the provided search box to find out if the new broadband infrastructure is available in your area, as well as the type of NBN connection you will have. If your location is highlighted in purple or designated as "service available," you can connect to the NBN. For areas where the build has commenced, the map will be highlighted brown with an approximate date of completion. If your area is showing as "not currently available" you may need to ask NBN Co about its rollout timetable for your location.

4. NBN Migration is not Automatic: Engage a Service Provider

Once the NBN access network is available in your area, you will need to engage with a service provider to make the switch. Remember, the migration will not happen automatically, so contact your preferred company or engage with a new provider for assistance when you're ready to switch to the new network.

5. Your NBN Migration Window Could be Smaller than 18 Months

6. Choose an NBN Package Based on Budget and Network Speed Requirements

The maximum internet speed you can get from a broadband connection depends on your specific NBN business plan. So, choose a package that delivers your preferred data download/upload rates. Usually, gigabytes per second (GB/s) indicates the speed of a broadband network.

Likewise, consider the monthly data allowance required when selecting your NBN service. The specification limits the maximum amount of data you may transfer, download, or upload via the new network within a specified subscription period. Keep in mind that your broadband speed and data bundle requirements dictate the price of your NBN business package.

7. Read the Fine Print: Determine What You're Getting (and Paying For)

The NBN service contract you sign should include requirement specifications or details such as:

Your connection speed: Data transfer, download, and upload rates impact the effectiveness of your internet-powered business/office communication systems.
Power outages: Most NBN service components like landline telephones or security alarms may cease to operate after a power outage. Does your NBN plan include ways to minimise or avoid downtime during a blackout? Your provider should clarify that beforehand.
Network outage: What information or assistance will be available to you in the event of a broadband connection failure?

Consult for a Smooth Transition to the NBN

Are you ready for the inevitable NBN migration? We can answer all relating questions after a comprehensive assessment of your existing business phone systems and data cabling. We'll then advise you on any equipment, cabling upgrades or replacements required in your premises to flawlessly integrate with your preferred NBN service.

Would you like to learn more about the NBN rollout and how we can get your phone systems ready?

Let's talk now!

Is your IT manager really qualified to keep your data secure?

Posted on August 11, 2021 by Oak & Bluebird

office Is your IT manager really qualified to keep your data secure?

Your IT manager has a big role to fulfill within your company. Not only is this individual tasked with keeping your phone and internet systems running smoothly, they are often responsible for keeping your organisation's data secure. The importance of data security in many businesses has increased substantially over the past several years and keeping your data secure has become a critical part of customer service, compliance, and even business continuity. Should it be your IT manager's responsibility?

The Standard Requirements for IT Managers

Technology plays an incredibly important role in your business--and your IT team has to be up to the task. Hiring an IT manager means looking for an exceptional individual who has a range of important skills and capabilities, from crisis management skills to the tech skills necessary to handle the day-to-day functionality of your business. The IT manager often takes on a number of important tasks:

Developing and maintaining technology processes throughout your business

Maintaining and updating software

Maintaining and updating hardware as needed

Running regular checks on network security

Maintaining basic data security standards

Overseeing system updates

Dealing with migrations

Handling outages and bringing your system back online as soon as possible

Determining timelines and handling major projects, including upgrades

Managing other employees within the IT department

Helping employees troubleshoot their IT issues

With such a wide range of skills required, it's often critical to look for an IT manager with several years of industry experience. You will often find, however, that IT managers come to the table with degrees in Computer Science or Information Technology, not degrees and certifications in cyber security. This may mean that your IT manager has little more than a passing knowledge of data security or how to keep your organisation's valuable information secure.

Does your IT manager really have time to manage your cybersecurity?

Your IT manager often has a wide range of tasks on their plate--often including upgrades, tech support for various individuals throughout the building, and dealing with crises. As a result, security management may take a back seat or, in a worst-case scenario, fall through the cracks entirely. Is it really important? Consider the cost of data that isn't properly secured.

Client acquisition goes down with poor security. New clients want to know that their data is secure and protected in your systems. Failure to provide that security, on the other hand, can cause potential new clients to shy away from your business.

Client retention decreases. 70% of customers say that they would stop doing business with a company after a data breach. This holds particularly true for businesses that don't take what customers consider appropriate measures to protect private data or to ensure continued customer security--and it can be devastating to your business reputation and revenue.

Legal issues arise. If you are not meeting compliance with Australian and even international standards, depending on your customers, you may face legal costs associated with your data breach. The average cost of a data breach stands at over $7 million and legal fees add significantly to those costs.

Trust in your brand plummets. After a major data breach, especially one that becomes the subject of public discussion, you may struggle to maintain your reputation. Building a trustworthy and reputable brand is an expensive and difficult exercise, and trying to regain trust after a breach is a challenge that your business may never recover from.

A single data breach can cost your company millions of dollars. Unfortunately, many Australian businesses are struggling to identify, isolate, and stop data breaches, which means you can continue to lose money throughout the process.

The cybersecurity skills shortage

Throughout Australia, cyber security faces a significant skills shortage. This skills shortage has already cost more than $400 million dollars and it's set to cost even more in the coming years. Cyber security is a constantly growing field that has substantial implications for every business across Australia. While most cyber security professionals themselves are highly trained and have skills that cover a wide range of arenas.

As technology improves, cyber security professionals are finding their skills increasingly in demand--and many of them are seeing a substantial increase in their daily workloads. For businesses, the high demand for cyber security professional means you have to fork out top dollar to have an in-house expert.

Chances are, your IT manager already has to keep up with information from a wide range of other fields. Unfortunately, with the skills gap widening, the chances increase significantly that your IT manager does not have the specialised skills necessary to keep your business's data as secure as possible. Ultimately, this can result in a loss of revenue, legal implications and much worse.

Building a Solution

With the skills shortage in cyber security Australia, you may find that it's more difficult than ever to find an effective solution to the problem. A cyber security specialist working in-house has the potential to offer your business the security it so desperately needs. The average IT manager, on the other hand, probably won't be able to.

That's where we comes in.

We understand the importance of cyber security in business. Furthermore, working with us is far cheaper than hiring a cyber security specialist to work directly with your business--not to mention the fact that, given the current shortage of cyber security specialists in Australia, finding a specialist to work for your business could be incredibly difficult. Not only that, you won't have to worry about training or onboarding staff, nor will you have to suffer downtime between employees if your specialist moves on. We has the solution to ensure that your data is secure. Consider our skills:

Remote accessibility
Enhanced flexibility in the workplace
Private cloud access
A dedicated Australian support team
Government-grade security

Leveraging the power of our private cloud solution makes it easy to scale your business and offers a higher level of security than many other solutions, which allows you to keep your data safer and protect both your clients and your private data.

Moving to a private cloud solution not only takes away the burden of cybersecurity from your internal IT manager, but also gives back this key employee critical time to focus on other high value activities, like implementing improvements to your suite of technology and enabling your staff.

Let's talk.

Post Covid-19: 4 ways workplaces will change after lockdown

Posted on August 11, 2021 by Oak & Bluebird

Post Covid-19: 4 ways workplaces will change after lockdown

There is no doubt that COVID-19 will change the workplace forever. With new light being shed on public health concerns and extended adaption to remote work, companies around the world are revisiting the 'new normal'.

The pandemic has certainly sped up the development of remote systems and tools, with many corporate leaders leaning into the idea of remote teams. Twitter, Facebook, Square and Shopify, for example, have given their employees the option to work from home indefinitely - a concept that hardly existed five years ago.

On May 22nd, the Shopify CEO Tobias Lütke tweeted, "As of today, Shopify is a digital by default company. We will keep our offices closed until 2021 so that we can rework them for this new reality. And after that, most will permanently work remotely. Office centricity is over".

When Andrew Hunter of Adzuna was asked about remote work in a recent interview with Fortune, the co-founder replied, "the standard office-based job is increasingly a thing of the past."

We've been exploring some predicted impacts of COVID-19 on our workspaces, and here are just a few thoughts.

What to expect?

1. Fluctuating commute times

Did you know that during COVID-19, commute times in congested Sydney dropped by about a third? With many working from home, the roads emptied out. Unfortunately, this may be short-lived. As distancing conscious commuters need to go back to the office, they may opt to drive rather than risk public transport - especially with dropping fuel costs. A shift back to private car use may undo years of initiatives to promote public transport use and drive up commuter numbers on the roads to unsustainable levels.

However, commute times may come down in the long-run. As employers have moved to work from home during COVID-19 lockdowns, these may become more permanent shifts, a move that would take more cars off the road and result in fewer people on public transport commutes.

2. Fewer unnecessary meetings, better communication

The pandemic helped many realize when a face-to-face meeting is required versus when it's acceptable to communicate digitally. Communication management tools such as unified communication systems, Slack, Microsoft Teams, Jira and Monday.com all provide synchronized, easy access to coworkers without the formality of an organized meeting time. Adopting digital communication platforms has improved real-time communication, shifting employees off phone calls and inefficient emails to real-time chat. That's a big win-win for workers.

3. Fewer work trips

Gone are the days of flying from Melbourne to Sydney for just one meeting. As most employees remains just as productive while working remotely, it'll be challenging for businesses to justify the expense. Especially when the use of video conferencing tools, such as Zoom, throughout lockdown periods, have proven video meetings can replace face-to-face meetings with minimal impact. Additionally, until there's a vaccine, many are fearful of flying and hotel stays.

Azurite Consulting recently conducted a survey which revealed 40% of those surveyed will not stay at a hotel until there is a vaccine, and 49% don't feel comfortable flying internationally until then also.

4. Improved remote systems

Given the dramatic shift in workplace behaviours, one byproduct of the pandemic will be a continuation of expedited technology development that supports remote work. Implementing efficient communication and data storage systems that can be accessed anywhere is more important to businesses than ever before and this has become increasingly obvious with each passing day since the outbreak began.

How to adjust

A significant increase in remote work will be an adjustment for many of us. So, it's important to have the right tools in place to optimise for success and productivity within you, your team and organization.

Learn how to manage time

It's easy to become glued to the computer while working from home. According to a recent survey by Airtasker, on average, remote employees worked 1.4 more days every month, which equates to 16.8 more days each year. It's not hard to see why. Home becomes the office and the office becomes home.

Set up your workspace

Getting caught up in being 'always on' because of a lack of separation between physical spaces is something all remote employees easily fall victim to. That is why time management and setting up a proper workspace is crucial. Psychologist Charlotte Armitage suggests that a proper workspace is fundamental to working from home success. "If you work in every room of your house, you will start to associate your home with work, making it very difficult to switch off from work and creating unhealthy imbalance in your work-life routine. Ideally, you need a space that is specifically for work that you can close the door on when you want to switch off.," she explains.

Reach out to teammates

Workplace by Facebook conducted a survey in 2018 which addressed the concerns of many remote employees by uncovering that 54% sometimes feel disconnected, underlining that it's common to feel alone or stuck when not physically surrounded by a team to collaborate with. It's important to understand those emotions when experiencing them and reach out to teammates to help you feel engaged and connected when feeling isolated. With endless digital communication platforms at our disposal, keeping in touch is easier than ever.

The effects of COVID-19 on the way we work will continue over the coming years. While the spike in telecommunication and remote activity will be an adjustment, adapting and embracing the change by putting proper tools in place will allow for a smooth transition.

Reduce costs & free up your IT team with Device as a Service (DaaS)

Posted on August 11, 2021 by Oak & Bluebird

Reduce costs & free up your IT team with Device as a Service (DaaS)

If you take a walk around your office today you may see a huge array of different computing devices being used. Desktops, laptops, tablets, as well as a wide range of mobile devices - each catering to the users' role and preferences.

And, if you're involved in supporting all those devices, you'll know first-hand what a headache this creates. Your support team has to know the ins and outs of each device, so they can troubleshoot any problems that crop up. When it comes time to update or upgrade, each device demands its own custom process to keep it up-to-date and functioning properly.

So, how can a modern company save the hassle and expense of maintaining a fleet of devices? How can it keep staff satisfied they're getting the latest and greatest devices, the performance they need to do their job, plus excellent support to make sure they're not left high and dry when their equipment crashes or needs updating? Device as a Service (Daas) could be your answer.

So, what exactly is Device as a Service (DaaS)?

DaaS is a device management solution that bundles the leasing of hardware devices such as desktops, laptops, tablets and smartphones with life cycle servicing and software into a single monthly contract.

It's a paid subscription model that streamlines your company's IT requirements and mitigates the time and cost that comes with managing it all in-house. Importantly, it leaves all device management to skilled experts, which frees up your team to focus on their core tasks and responsibilities.

5 financial benefits of Device as a Service (DaaS)

One of the biggest challenges finance teams face is getting cost predictability, so they can manage their cash flow. They often have to rely on managers to provide budgets for the next financial year. However, when it comes to IT costs, most managers don't know enough to forecast accurately, anticipate when hardware or software needs updating or upgrading, or have a crystal ball to know when a device is going to crash.

Aside from the cash flow challenges of managing all your devices in-house, hardware and software are also expensive capital expenditure items. IDC reports that hardware consumes almost a quarter of technology budgets. All too often, when a company's budget is under pressure, staff get told 'sorry, you'll just have to wait until the next financial year to upgrade.'

According to ZenBusiness, this 'tech-gap' created by deferred CapEx spending results in outdated technologies, low stocks of supplies, and a lack of integrated communication among teams. The net result? You guessed it: unhappy staff.

Two in three employees surveyed said outdated technology has the biggest effect on their productivity. For example, poor-quality computers can burden IT with help requests and result in a loss of productivity when employees can't work due to repairs or maintenance. 57% said this impacted on their job satisfaction and 32% on their relationship with their employer.

DaaS can neutralise all of these issues by providing the following:

Improved cash flow.
Reduced capital expenditure on hardware.
Cost predictability and more accurate forecasting:
- simple and flexible monthly plans; pay per seat per month over 3-5 years
- Reduced IT-related costs, with better visibility
- Insurance included
- Covers all device-related hardware and software
- If you close a project, or your business, there's no need to sell purchased assets
- Asset recovery, disposal and refresh
- Plan in advance for upgrades and the transition to new technology
Frees up cash otherwise earmarked for the upfront and out-of-pocket expenses of the traditional, one-time purchase model.
The per-device contract, combined with detailed reporting, lets technology costs be allocated to a specific business unit or project.

DaaS frees up your in-house IT team

Consider the time an in-house IT team would normally spend procuring and managing devices, as well as deploying and supporting them. DaaS takes care of all this, freeing up your frontline IT staff for more strategic initiatives that help grow your business.

Devices under a DaaS model come pre-set up, so they're almost ready to 'plug and play'. No more wasted time as staff sit around waiting for IT to install software and get devices connected to the network.

Your IT team doesn't have to spend time and resources any longer taking care of the day-to-day management and maintenance of PCs, tablets and other devices. Best of all, they can give away their Helpdesk responsibilities - your vendor takes care of this under the DaaS model.

DaaS is tailored for your unique needs

To make sure you're not paying for anything you don't need, your DaaS vendor takes the time and trouble to discuss your exact requirements in detail. An important aspect of the DaaS model is scalability; if your business grows and your workforce expands, you just let your vendor know that you require more seats. Similarly, if a project comes to an end, for example, you just scale down. This gives you tremendous speed and agility, which is vital in today's competitive business environment.

The actual devices covered by your DaaS are also carefully considered, so you have purpose-built accessories to suit your business needs. This includes having up-to-date, high-performing hardware, which is monitored and adjusted to suit your employees and their job requirements. And, if new technology comes into the market, your vendor will let you know, so you can be confident you've got your finger on the pulse of the latest tech trends.

Procurement and Supply Chain Officer (North Sydney)

Posted on August 11, 2021 by Oak & Bluebird

Job Opening Procurement and Supply Chain Officer (North Sydney)

Are you passionate about procurement, supply chain and liaising with people? We have an exciting opportunity to join a growing Aussie Tech company!

About OK Kloud

It enables businesses to continually improve through technology. We work with businesses, across all industries, to refine their technology infrastructure. From printers and copiers, to workflow automation, integrated asset tracking, to communication tools and cloud software - we work with our customers to deliver what they need to be able to grow their business.

We have come a long way since our inception in 2011, and we are only getting better. We are disruptors, innovation is at the heart of who we are. While we are constantly working to improve our products and service for our customers, we pride ourselves on delivering this through our strongest asset - our people.

What we're looking for

We're looking for a highly organised and people orientated Procurement and Supply Chain Officer to join on a permanent full-time contract.

What you'll be working on

You'll support the day-to-day functioning of procurement activities for direct and indirect categories globally. You will use your exceptional communication skills to engage in supplier development and negotiation. As well as continuing to strive to service excellence through ensuring that internal and external customer delivery deadlines are met.

More About You

To be successful in the role, you will have:

Minimum of 5 years' experience in Procurement and Inventory management
Demonstrated ability to achieve measurable results in line with an overarching business strategy
Proven skills in adaptability and attention to detail
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
Confident with negotiating pricing with partners
Experience working in a team environment and ability to take ownership

Desirable:

Bachelor's degree in Management or Supply Chain
B2B and/or third-party logistics experience
Previous experience in vendor relationships or management
IT and Print stock or product knowledge
CRM knowledge - Salesforce is highly desirable
APICS qualification highly desired

The Family

There's a reason people work. Rather than being a small fish in a big pond, everyone can see how their individual contribution makes a difference to the success of our business. That empowerment underpins our commitment to personal development, building strong relationships with our colleagues, taking pride in our work, and valuing our diverse experiences and backgrounds.

Technology marches on: Make Sure your PBX follows

Posted on August 11, 2021 by Oak & Bluebird

Technology marches on: Make Sure your PBX follows

Everyday, technology advances. Unfortunately, not everything marches with it. More and more businesses are still stuck on outdated PBX, or Private Branch Exchange, phone systems. But searching for the right phone system to support your growing business needs can be challenging.

Like any other technology, phone systems are constantly being improved and becoming smarter. With so many new features, it's difficult to keep up to date on what's available and how to make use of them. We've put together a guide with the latest features your business needs to boost office productivity while standing apart from your competition.

Looking Out for Features: Basics to Keep in Mind

Regardless of the size of your business, ensure your search for a PBX has these basic features available:

Automated Attendant: Don't miss out on business with a cheerful voice to greet your customers and alert them that you'll be with them shortly.

Voicemail To Email: Never wait to check your voicemail in the office again, when you can just receive them as e-mails in file friendly audio format (WAV).

Mobile Twinning and Hot Desking: Link your office phone to a cell phone and receive calls anywhere without being tethered to your desk. Gain the freedom to move about as you please, without risking missing a call.

Call Parking and Holding: Have calls held on one phone and received on another. Never again have to worry about receiving a call at an inconvenient location and getting stuck there for the duration.

When choosing the features you need for your phone system, you should also consider hosted PBX or cloud PBX. While both solutions operate off-premise and connect through the Internet, hosted PBX is pay per seat - easy to scale up or down according to your business requirements.

LivePBX: The Advanced Solution

Introducing a hosted phone solution that delivers on all of the basic features plus a dozen of the latest, technologically-inclined capabilities.

Imagine, for a moment, that you're out of the office for the day and you've just missed a very important call on your desk phone. If you don't have a way to follow up immediately, then you're almost guaranteed to lose that lead and any business that it might have brought with it.

But with the LivePBX system, received voicemails can be automatically sent to your email or phone. You can even set your call to simultaneously ring on your desk and mobile, or set an auto-forwarding rule to patch the call straight through to your mobile, no matter where you are.

Below, you'll find just some of the features that makes LivePBX stand out from any other system.

Locally Hosted: With everything hosted and supported locally within Australia, help will be there when you need it. We have a 24/7 support line open for any problems that require immediate solutions.
Tailored Solutions: Any sort of problem or issue can be tackled by one of solutions experts. If it's not covered here, we can tailor a solution specifically for your business.
Scalability: Whether it's adding multiple sites to your Hosted platform, adding handsets for a home office, soft phones for your field staff, or scaling from 2 users to 1,000 and beyond, you won't find anything lacking in our scaling capabilities.
Versatility: Our solutions integrate seamlessly with a wide range of soft phones, fixed IP phones, and even wireless devices such as Wi-Fi or DECT (cordless handsets).
Convenience: Moving your office to a new location can often be an inconvenient and costly exercise, especially if you want to retain your phone numbers. Our Kloud offers the flexibility of retaining your existing business number for far less than our competitors: only $10, with no overcharging.
LivePBX SoftPhone: Softphones (software that allows you to use your smartphone, tablet, or computer as a phone to place, receive, and transfer calls over the internet) offer unprecedented amounts of flexibility and mobility to your sales and staff. It's a highly sought after feature for any company that involves large amounts of external staff, while still allowing you to present an advertised singular office number.

Call Centre Platform: For those clients that need a more powerful tool for advanced real time requirements in managing their call handling platforms. This service includes display boards and monitoring campaigns, and is better suited for clients requiring real time analysis and monitoring, along with reporting and management.
Service Level Agreements: The LivePBX - Base Platform - Express (2 Core/4GB RAM/50GB HDD) is hosted in our secure government-based tier 3 Data Centre, continually monitored within our advanced LiveOffice environment. Our onshore support team is available to assist with issues between 7AM and 7PM on weekdays. Alternatively, any issues encountered outside of these hours can be logged 24/7.
Call Reporting: A simple but powerful tool for business owners struggling with call handling. A Graphic User Interface is used to show missed or abandoned calls, and call handling times for office/app using staff.
Hosted or Cloud Unified Communications: eliminates disjointed, multi-vendor communications. Have all of your communications integrated into a single platform.
CRM Integration: deliver a personalised customer experience by having customer information at your fingertips. Streamline call logging and reduce time spent on manual data entry.

Is 5G safe?

Posted on August 11, 2021 by Oak & Bluebird

office Is 5G safe?

Already live in a handful of areas across Australia, 5G is the next generation of high-speed mobile data. Optus and Telstra have already switched on 5G in some areas, and are currently on an expansion program to cover the whole country. It's expected that Vodafone's 5G network will go live in 2020.

The 5G network harnesses a new technology known as the millimeter wave (mmWave) for super-fast data speeds. Despite the benefits and convenience this technology promises (for both businesses and consumers), many are still sceptical of the health risks it may cause.

Is 5G safe? This is a question that lingers in the minds of many, particularly those that spend a lot of time online via the wireless network. A big health concern people have is whether the network's radio frequency (RF) radiation will cause the growth of cancerous tumours.

4G Vs 5G

5G is the new network technology that follows the 4G LTE (Long Term Evolution). While 4G LTE operates up to 6GHz, 5G is capable of handling anywhere between 30GHz and 300GHz - essentially, a leap in speed and making data transfer comparatively faster.

Similar to the 4G network you might be connected to right now, concerns like the equipment you are using to connect, network congestion, and strength of the signal will also affect the 5G network.

You'll definitely want to upgrade when you hear this: according to Optus, its 5G home wireless service has achieved an average download speed of 100Mbps and peak download speeds of 295Mbps.

Meanwhile, Telstra has achieved speeds of 1,200Mbps (1.2Gbps) at its offices in the city on a Galaxy 510 5G. However, this was the only device connected to the network at testing time. Meaning that when network congestion occurs during high demand period, the speed can be slightly lower.

Compared to 4G, these speeds are still relatively higher. In real-world, 4G attains download speed of between 20Mbps and 50Mbps. Currently, the NBN can only achieve a maximum download speed of 100Mbps.

Free Guide: Everything about NBN & 5G

What 5G Dangers Is The Internet Claiming?

Many Australians are currently worried about the 5G network's 'cost' on public health, but is there really cause for concern?

The fear for 5G followed a Change.org petition that called for the postponement of the 5G network rollout. It called on the Senate to launch an inquiry to review the safety of 5G frequency in phones.

5G network relies on RF to transmit and receive data. RF radiation is a form of electromagnetic energy consisting of waves of both magnetic and electrical energy moving through space.

Mobile phone radiation is at the lowest end of the electromagnetic spectrum, meaning they are safer than high-energy radiations such as gamma rays and X-rays.

RF radiation has lower energy. The energy it has is only enough to vibrate or move atoms in a molecule, but cannot ionise it. But really, what does that actually mean? RF radiation cannot damage DNA and hence it cannot cause cancer. Sounds encouraging.

With So Much Flying Around In The Air, What About Other Wireless Networks?

In a study conducted by the National Toxicology Program (NTP), lab rats were exposed to high 2G RF radiation and 3G RF radiation, and was later found to have developed cancerous tumours. Although the results are alarming, the level of radiation during the study was much higher than the normal exposure level during phone usage.

In the last two decades, scientists have conducted a large number of studies to establish whether there's any health risk associated with mobile phone use. Many of these studies have tried to find a link between mobile phone use and the cancers of the brain and head including acoustic neuroma, glioma, and meningioma.

All the studies we've found so far have not shown any clear evidence of a relationship between cancer and mobile phone use. That's a relief, right?

To put your worries completely to rest, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) noted that the current RF radiations from mobile phones are within acceptable safety limits. The NTP and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency have also not classified RF radiation as carcinogenic.

All this means is there's nothing to suggest 2G, 3G, 4G, and 5G RF radiations are a significant health risk. Phones are safe to use and you should be thinking of switching to 5G soon!

How to make sure you choose the right Managed Print Services (MPS) provider

Posted on August 11, 2021 by Oak & Bluebird

How to make sure you choose the right Managed Print Services (MPS) provider

Most business decisions that commit you to a partnership for the long-term are worth taking time over. The same applies when you're looking for a trusted managed print services (MPS) provider.

There are a number of leading MPS suppliers in the Australian market and it can be a challenge deciding which one is the best fit for your business, especially when every provider claims to be the best. Here are some guidelines to help you eliminate the indecision and find the right MPS partner that will serve you well into the future.

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Why work with an MPS?

It helps to understand how a managed print service provider can benefit your business. After all, many believe it can be done just as well in-house. Here are some ways that outsourcing your print technology to an expert in the field can save you money and lift business productivity.

Eliminate the burden on your IT team to manage your print devices, and free them up to focus on higher-value tasks
Automatic and regular technology updates to enhance the security and workflow of your print environment
On-demand local servicing to eliminate the downtime of your printers
Ongoing print optimisation to help save printing costs and boost efficiency
Flexible leasing options so you're not stuck with high costs and outdated technology - only pay for what you need
Eliminate upfront capital expenditure on print technology
Take advantage of greater purchasing power to get a better price for your printers
Automated toner ordering so you'll never run out
Automated reporting so you know exactly how much printing is costing your business

We're sure you'll agree that the points above amount to a lot of value to your business.

4 key considerations when seeking an MPS provider

When considering an MPS partner, it's worth keeping these points top of mind.

1. Continuous optimisation and cost savings

It's important you find an MPS that will work with you to continuously optimise your print solution and find areas to cut down on costs throughout the life of your agreement. An MPS that conducts regular account reviews will be able to analyse your print volumes, print spend and utilisation of devices to pinpoint areas that need consolidating and optimising.

2. Strong relationships with multiple manufacturers

When an MPS is not tied to one supplier, you are provided with more choice. This vendor independence means they can leverage their increased buying power to find printing devices that fit your budget while delivering exactly what your business needs.

3. Flexibility

A reputable and reliable MPS provider can grow and adapt with your business. Whether you need to scale your services up or down, you need an MPS that can tailor a solution for you. This results in a trusted and beneficial long-term relationship.

4. They are in regular contact with you

It's important to make sure your MPS is supporting you throughout the life of your relationship. Whether it's through a high-touch customer service team, a dedicated account manager, or regular communications from the provider, these regular check-ins are the best ways to eliminate downtime and ensure your print equipment is in good working condition. We give you the opportunity to share your opinion through a biannual customer feedback program, as well as supporting you with an account manager and customer relationship manager who are constantly working to ensure your print is just right for you.

How to find out if your MPS provider will consistently deliver

Financial education guru and author, Robert Kyosaki, said: "Talk is cheap … Actions do speak louder than words. Watch what a person does more than what they say." While many MPS providers may talk a good game, it always pays to 'trust, but verify'. Here are some pointers on how to validate what a potential supplier is offering.

Ask for testimonials

The easiest way to predict how an MPS provider will work with you is to find out how they have engaged with other clients. So, we recommend asking for case studies and contact details of referees that you can check out independently. Try and find their clients that are in the same, or similar, industry that you're in. We are happy to provide several different customers as referees to showcase our breadth of solutions and services.

Are they good communicators?

The last thing you want is an MPS provider that's hard to get in touch with. This is especially true if you're looking for cloud or data solutions that can impact the entire operation of your business if they fail. An MPS provider needs to be a good and regular communicator so they can resolve any sudden issues you might encounter. Finding an MPS with Australian-based call centres and service ensures that you will always have local support and advice. There is nothing worse than being put on hold for hours with an unhelpful overseas call centre.

Can they help you become more efficient?

One of the best ways to answer this question is to see if they provide more than just printing services. This is because there are many other benefits to having a managed print provider, including supporting other business functions through cloud solutions and unified communication systems. Combined, these will help streamline your business processes, minimise business costs and simplify your service contracts.

Do their numbers stack up?

Look for an MPS provider who has been transparent throughout the sales process. This includes providing you with a detailed and accurate analysis of the cost savings you can expect from implementing their recommended printing solutions. We often provide a total cost of ownership (TCO) report during our consulting process, so you have a clear understanding of our action plan and where you will save money.

Are they environmentally friendly?

Modern printing has changed markedly over the past few years. For us in the industry, we understand that the demand for printing has decreased and the need for digitisation has increased - along with the move towards less environmentally-harmful products and practices. Your MPS provider should understand and support this transformation - not put up roadblocks. Look for a provider that offers you solutions that help reduce your business's impact on the planet. You want an MPS that takes sustainability seriously.

The bottom line

Finding the right MPS provider with the knowledge and experience to generate value can help reduce costs, eliminate waste and introduce efficiencies to your office printing. To find the right fit for your business make sure to do your research and ask the right questions - always ensuring a potential provider has a successful and proven track record. We offers a free TCO report to help you start, or improve, your MPS journey.

Get in touch today to hear more about how we can help with your MPS.

How technology will shape the future of work

Posted on August 11, 2021 by Oak & Bluebird

office How technology will shape the future of work

It is a fact that innovation and new technology are fundamentally changing the way we live and do business. According to tech experts, these will continue to rock the modern workspace in the next decade - workstations will be unrecognisable to how they are set up today. Not to mention, workforce dynamics and the nature of work will change drastically in tandem with new technology.

To maintain relevance and earn a competitive edge, you need to know how emerging technologies will change the business environment. You should also think about how your business can leverage innovations to strategically attract top talent, boost efficiency, and improve your bottom line.

We have done the hard yards to have a look into the expected trends and how tech will affect your business in the future.

Technological Trends in Business & The Future of Work

These emerging technologies for business will play a key role in transforming your operations:

Internet of Thing (IoT)

We live in a digital age where almost everything is connected. From smart devices like sensors and appliances, the IoT is essentially a complex network of interconnected 'things'. This giant web of interconnectivity has changed the way we interact with our surroundings as well as how businesses build relationships with customers. From a business perspective, you shouldn't simply be 'jumping on the bandwagon' because all your competitors are using it - leveraging this source of technology should begin with a goal in mind, not the tech itself. What does your business want to achieve and how will this affect current operations? Importantly, how will you enhance system integration, data storage and security?

Blockchain

The adoption of this trend has the potential to boost data protection and cybersecurity. The digitally encrypted ledger groups data publicly in 'blocks.' It has a decentralised database that only allows 'chain' members to view or verify the info. This gets rid of go-betweens or the need to seek third-party validation. As a result, it will lead to more efficient financial transactions across borders and aid proper talent acquisition and management.

Automation and Artificial Intelligence (AI)

Automation and AI are fundamentally reshaping organisations and contributing to growth while enhancing productivity. Not only are these technologies transforming the workplace itself but also the nature of work. Repetitive tasks will be handled by machines and Robotic Process Automation (RPA) designed to perform with greater efficiency and accuracy. When tools like RPA are combined with document capture and management tools, huge gains in efficiency through automation are created This will create more opportunities for entrepreneurs, society, and the economy. While this may be a cause for concern regarding job redundancy, it actually means workers can focus on more meaningful tasks that grow revenue and deliver better customer experiences.

Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR)

More than just technologies designed for gaming and the entertainment industry, we expect to see businesses increasingly adopt VR and AR as tools for workplace training, presenting, prototyping and designing. From the creation of 3D models to digitising the workplace, this innovation continues to unlock an extraordinary precedent and indefinite scaling potential. The virtual reality and augmented reality market is projected to grow to more than $120 billion by 2022, at a 75 percent compound average growth rate.

Cloud Technology Adoption

The rapid transformations in the digital world has led many businesses to venture into the cloud. In fact, your company may already be using some type of cloud service for relatively simple tasks like sharing and storing files or for analysing huge chunks of data. This innovation offers location and device independence, allows for offline accessibility of information, as well as scalability. To pursue a competitive advantage, your future employees must have the right skills to leverage this opportunity for maximum benefit to the business.

Software as a Service (SaaS), Desktop as a Service (DaaS) and Outsourced IT

With Cloud technology revenues predicted to grow past $278 Billion by 2021, Software as a Service (SaaS), Desktop as a Service (DaaS) and other cloud-based IT outsourcing models are changing the scope of work that companies manage internally. Leveraging the scalability and power of the cloud is delivering cost savings and efficiency gains to those willing to move to the cloud.

How these technology innovations will affect businesses and the future of work

Emerging technologies and innovations will not only boost efficiency across your organisation but will have even more long-term positive impacts. For instance, AI-enabled innovations designed to handle repetitive tasks, such as Robotic Process Automation (RPA), would open up new job opportunities and enable workers to focus on more meaningful work. Cloud computing, on the other hand, will lead to improved data management and security, while enhancing communications and access to information.

Highly efficient machines with AI integration could increase productivity while maintaining a manageable team of employees with optimal output.

Having grown up with the tech evolution, millennials and Gen Z job seekers are digital natives. They expect to work with companies with the latest and greatest tech advancements that enable a flexible and collaborative working atmosphere. Companies should stay ahead of the curve by staying up to date with the technological changes if you want to attract and retain the best talent.

Stay ahead of the game with us

With the changes in tech, you need to direct your focus on transforming your IT for you to stay ahead of time. Some crucial steps to take include moving to the cloud and adopting automation for most processes within the business.

We can set you up for the transformation, earning you a competitive edge. We will help you succeed by focusing on improving your IT as a business strategy. Not only will you improve your efficiency, but you also stand to increase productivity while enjoying the benefits of a scalable and contemporary IT system.

To learn more about how we can prepare you for future changes in tech, let's talk.