SMEs warned to secure email before it is too late
1 min read
Manufacturing SMEs are being urged to check their email systems’ security and storage capabilities.
Research among 100 UK IT directors for managed services provider Business Systems Group (BSG) reveals that these are the current top two communication systems concerns.
Storage is the most pressing email issue for just over one third (34%) of SMEs, while security is the main headache for a further 23%. BSG’s research also shows that IT directors believe security and storage will cost the most to rectify. One in five identify storage as the most resource draining, with one in four putting security at the top of the list.
“The Internet has enabled many SMEs to come across as larger than they actually are, with polished websites, departmental email aliases and online ordering capabilities mimicking those of larger organisations. This means they have quickly become as dependent on email as larger enterprises,” explains Simon Ratcliffe, head of BSG’s managed services division.
The problem, he says, is that many either have no security, storage or management system in place, or they face a large capital expenditure cost to bring in the necessary equipment and resources to deploy it.
“This means SMBs face one of two issues: either they avoid deploying the technology, exposing themselves to security threats and compliance legislation, or they face huge investment costs that will recur just so they can ensure the best performance from their investment.”
BSG suggests outsourcing to save time and cost, and allow hard-pressed SMEs to focus on their core businesses.
