Blog Posts

Why technology buyers should demand greater clarity

The rapid state of change in IT product price and stock levels is seeing buyers struggle to achieve consistent value on purchases. Unfortunately, it’s often the case that, even when buyers believe they have secured best value, the reality is anything but.

Why it’s time to find a new way to buy (and sell) IT

The commodity IT market has always been challenging for procurement professionals, not least because it is one of the largest in-direct spend categories and many purchases fall into tail spend. Couple that with scale and pace of change, where up to 30,000 product prices move every day, along with thousands of new product introductions and stock changes. It’s easy to see how buyers may struggle to get a grip on this complex landscape. This article explores ways to navigate it.

Vendors don’t know if IT buyers receive their discounts – or if resellers are pocketing the difference

A survey from Probrand has revealed it’s likely that IT buyers are missing out on extra discount they are entitled to because vendors are unable to monitor whether these are being passed on by resellers. Discover more insights in this article.

The rise of B2B marketplaces and why that’s changing how you buy IT

The ability to research and buy products from all over the world, via websites, has increased the choice available to consumers, influencing how we all shop. We’re all consumers and now B2B buyers are more savvy than ever. Discover how in this article.

Sustainable procurement: four ways IT buyers can embrace a more eco-friendly approach

When we talk about sustainable procurement, the focus is often on some of the big ways that buying teams can impact change through social, economic and environmental factors. Here, Ian Nethercot looks at four areas that buying teams can implement today to become more sustainable.

Manual systems mean IT buyers aren’t getting the discounts they’re entitled to

A survey from Probrand has revealed IT buyers are missing out on significant price discounts because the right tools aren’t in place for distributors and vendors to effectively manage and communicate deals through the supply chain. Discover more about why manual processes are hindering procurement teams.

How volatility of the IT market costs you time and money

For IT buyers, monitoring over 30,000 daily price changes and stock levels to identify best value is a hugely manual and time consuming approach – sourcing data, analysing and comparing – and even then, how do they really know they’re getting a deal?

Getting to grips with tail spend – without the barriers

Look at any organisation’s spending habits and you’ll typically find a large proportion of overall expenditure is spread out on small purchases across multiple suppliers. This tail spend often poses a challenge for procurement teams as it can be hard to pinpoint what’s contributing to it, and how that expenditure can be controlled. Get to grips with it in this article.

Frustrated B2B buyers say ‘stop calling us’ we want a new way to buy IT

B2B buyers are so frustrated with the IT market that a third see IT resellers as a barrier and nearly half (45%) would like to cut them out of the process altogether, research from Probrand has found. Read more about the findings in this article.

From ancient Greece to the digital economy – the rise of marketplaces and the evolution of Business-to-Business buying

Defined as ‘arenas of commercial dealings,’ marketplaces – in some form or another – have existed for as long as humans have engaged in trade, with ‘official’ marketplaces recorded in Athens during 600BC. Fast forward today and to the IT buying space in particular – and we’ve lost sight of a lot of that transparency. Explore the evolution of the marketplace in this article.

Digital marketplaces – great opportunity for procurement or governance nightmare?

Digital marketplaces hold huge potential for procurement professionals. They provide an opportunity to compare and contrast price and stock levels from multiple suppliers all within a single platform. As such, digital marketplaces are growing in popularity and more of them are appearing. This poses a few challenges for procurement, explored in this article.

Catalogue management is great news for Procurement – when adopted in the right way

Catalogue management has fast become a popular feature offered by suppliers to support organisations’ procurement processes. If you are unfamiliar with the term, catalogue management refers to online portals where suppliers can display products, pre-approved by procurement teams, to authorised purchasers. Access the article to learn how you can adopt catalogue management effectively.

3 challenges facing public sector IT buyers – and how they can be overcome

For public sector procurement professionals, who are always under pressure to deliver both efficiency and value, buying IT comes with its challenges. In a process-driven world, how can buyers ensure they’re procuring the right product at the best price – all while complying with the expected level of governance?

Turning Digital: Asks, needs, challenges, prohibitors — the market speaks

In a new series of investigations in partnership with Spend Matters, representatives from the procurement world of practitioners, tech solution providers and consultancies share the word on the street about ‘turning digital.’

Tips on how to beat market volatility

Did you know that the IT industry is by far one of the most volatile market places with price and stock of IT equipment often fluctuating on a daily basis? The rapid state of change in IT product price and stock levels is seeing buyers struggle to achieve consistent value on purchases.

Are we experiencing a shift in types of tech functionality demand?

Following the supply chain turbulence of the past few years, are we seeing a shift in the type of digital that organizations are looking for? Are they now more aware of the need for tech around supply chain risk for example?

Does the IT buyer really care about ESG functionality?

As ESG factors have gained a significant increase in attention across industries over recent years, and as the organizations within them become more concerned with making ethical purchasing decisions by embracing responsible sourcing and ethical business practices, we’ve been watching the rise in ESG functionality applied to the tech that supports them.

Prioritising your IT spend – security vs innovation

Knowing where organisations should be prioritising their IT spend has become increasingly challenging in recent years. The upheaval of the pandemic followed by an unstable economic climate...

What to do if ransomware hits: Top tips in ransomware negotiations

The first thing any organisation should do is ensure that whoever’s hacked into the company network can’t do any further damage by locking them out...

How to build a cloud strategy fit for modern business

In this article, Richard Nelson, senior technical consultant at Probrand, explores how to regain control of your cloud strategy and how to decide on the best approach for your business.

Ending the culture of silence in cyber security – 3 ways to empower teams

Here, Mark Lomas, outlines three ways organisations can create a blame-free culture that empowers teams to prepare for – and recover from – an attack.

What you need to know about IT managed services – five questions to ask a prospective provider

Here, Rich Nelson, technical architect at Probrand, outlines 5 questions to ask your prospective IT support partner.

What the crowdstrike issue means to SMBs and what we can learn from it

Issues at Crowdstrike have led to global software outages, including on some Microsoft systems, causing downtime, reduced productivity and more.

Navigating a complex IT market to get the best deal

Education providers have faced a series of challenges in recent years when sourcing the right technology for students and staff. The Covid-19 pandemic created disruption ...

Three cybersecurity threats your employees need to know

Richard Nelson outlines some of the latest tactics hackers are deploying, and the steps organisations can take to mitigate threats and prevent staff from feeling out of their depth.

Essential Accessories to Boost Productivity and Efficiency in a Hybrid Workforce

As we navigate through 2024, businesses are increasingly embracing the hybrid work model, blending in-office and remote work. To drive productivity and efficiency in this dynamic environment, equipping your workforce with the right accessories is crucial.

Get your device in pole position for Microsoft 365 Copilot

Meeting these device requirements will ensure that you can run Copilot for Microsoft 365 effectively, allowing you to fully enjoy its powerful AI capabilities.

Four reasons to refresh your laptops now

Back in 2020 when the Covid-19 pandemic swept across the world, businesses of all shapes and sizes were forced to adapt to a remote working model and quickly invest in laptops for their employees.

Understanding Compliance: IT Support’s Role in Keeping Data in Check

In today's data-driven world, compliance with industry standards and regulations is crucial for businesses of all sizes. Data breaches and non-compliance can have severe consequences, including financial penalties and reputational damage.

IT Support’s Role in Mergers and Acquisitions: Ensuring Smooth Transitions

Mergers and Acquisitions (M&A) are critical business processes, often involving combining companies to achieve strategic goals like market expansion or efficiency improvements.

The Ethics of IT: Navigating Privacy and Trust in Tech Support

IT support is increasingly becoming a focal point in discussions about ethics in the digital age. As technology becomes more integrated into our daily lives, the responsibility of those who provide tech support grows significantly.

Digitalisation of procurement: three steps to empower your IT buyers

The Covid-19 pandemic forced IT buyers to change their focus. Many of the more adventurous digital transformation projects were put on hold as energy was directed towards keeping businesses operational and sourcing the technology needed to enable home working. With some semblance of normality now returning, buying teams are turning their attention back to those projects and exploring how digital channels can be used to achieve more effective procurement.

IT Asset Management: Tracking and Optimising Your Technology Investments

IT Asset Management (ITAM) is essential for any business that relies on technology. It involves managing and optimising the lifecycle of IT assets, including hardware and software.

The unlikely targets of business network hacks are revealed

UK businesses need to be more aware of the security vulnerabilities their wireless devices present, new research has revealed.

Mobile Device Management (MDM): Securing Your Workforce On the Go

As businesses increasingly adopt mobile devices for work, managing and securing these devices has become crucial. This is where Mobile Device Management (MDM) comes in. MDM is a technology solution that helps businesses manage and secure mobile devices like smartphones and tablets used by their employees.

Proactive IT Support Strategies Against Evolving Cybersecurity Threats

Cybersecurity threats are a dynamic and ever-present danger, with new vulnerabilities and attack vectors emerging at a daunting pace. For businesses, this evolving landscape poses a significant challenge, compelling a shift in strategies from traditional, reactive postures to proactive defences.

Understanding Firewalls in IT Security

Configuring and managing firewalls are crucial in optimising their effectiveness as protective barriers against cybersecurity threats. Proper configuration entails setting up precise rules and policies that dictate the flow of network traffic, ensuring that only authorised communications are permitted.

Navigating Change: Understanding the VMware Acquisition by Broadcom

In a significant move that has sent ripples across the IT landscape, Broadcom completed its acquisition of VMware on the 22nd of November 2023. This transformative event heralds a strategic shift that IT managers need to be acutely aware of. In this blog post, we'll delve into the key implications of this acquisition and explore the options available for existing VMware customers.

Managing IT Infrastructure: Best Practices for Modern Businesses

IT infrastructure serves as the critical backbone of modern business operations, underpinning every facet from communication to data management and customer service. The seamless integration and performance of IT systems are non-negotiable for businesses striving for efficiency, competitiveness, and innovation.

How to Fix Those Insecure Passwords

Hopefully your company hasn't yet been hacked using an insecure password. This article aims to ensure that it stays that way. The problem with passwords is that people choose easy ones to guess. Every year, someone releases a report about the most frequent ones. Last year, it was password manager company NordPass's turn. The company published its list of most common passwords, with the usual suspects at the top.

What is IT Support?

IT support, also known as technical support, is a service that provides businesses and individuals with solutions to various technical issues involving computers, networks, and related technologies. As the backbone of organisational efficiency, IT support ensures that technology works seamlessly to facilitate smooth business operations, aiding in problem-solving, system maintenance, and ensuring security and continuity.

Are Cartridge Free Inkjet Printers Worth It?

There’s a long-standing story in the tech industry that ounce for ounce, inkjet ink is worth more than gold or champagne. Replacing it is certainly expensive, which is one reason that manufacturers can get away with selling cheaper printers. It’s a little like giving away the razor so that you can charge a fortune for the blade.

A Comprehensive Guide to Tape vs. Cloud Data Backup for Businesses

What would you do if you lost everything? If you left work and something went wrong today what would your business lose? Losing your data is a lot more common than you’d think and one small failure or accident could destroy all of your company’s important information. Deciding on the right back up option is a critical decision for many businesses wishing to safeguard their important data.

What is flash storage?

Flash storage is a data storage technology which uses high-speed, electrically programmable memory (flash memory) to store data. It was given the name flash because of rapid speed it writes and performs random I/O operations. It has several unique characteristics that make it ideal for enterprise data storage.

Why is the Government Scanning Your Servers?

The UK government might be scanning your computers - but don't worry. Rather than some nefarious scheme to hack its own citizens, it's a valiant attempt to keep the whole country safe from cyber attack.

Energy blackouts risk costly ‘dirty shutdowns’, warns Probrand

Amid the ongoing energy crisis and news that the government is testing emergency plans for energy blackouts, businesses are being warned to correctly configure their IT estate, or risk costly impacts this winter, according to technology services provider Probrand.

The Globalisation of IT Support: Navigating Challenges, Seizing Opportunities

As companies extend their operations across continents, the demand for IT support that is both multilingual and culturally competent has never been more pronounced.

Navigating the Remote Access Revolution: Balancing Flexibility and Security

Spurred by necessity and evolving workplace dynamics, companies large and small have pivoted to flexible work arrangements, propelling the remote access revolution forward. This seismic shift has brought productivity and work-life balance into the homes of employees worldwide.

Understanding Different Levels of IT Support

When it comes to Information Technology (IT), a structured hierarchy of support levels ensures that technological operations run seamlessly. Each layer of IT support is pivotal in managing and resolving various technical issues, orchestrating a symphony of solutions that enhance operational efficiency and user satisfaction.

The Significance of Proper IT Disposal and Recycling

As organisations navigate the vast landscapes of information technology, a paramount aspect that demands meticulous attention is the secure and ethical disposal of IT assets. This not only encompasses the safeguarding of sensitive data through robust data-wiping practices but also carries a profound environmental implication.

The Role of Cloud Computing in IT Services

Cloud computing has emerged as a transformative force within IT services, signalling an era of unprecedented innovation and adaptability.This evolution has reshaped the architectural landscapes of IT infrastructures, steering them away from traditional setups and towards more agile, scalable, and cost-effective solutions. Cloud platforms, with their inherent flexibility, have become quintessential in facilitating a variety of services, ranging from data storage and management to comprehensive processing tasks, all within the virtualised realms of the cloud.

The Importance of IT Security in IT Support

The range of threats and vulnerabilities in the evolving digital world has made IT security an indispensable pillar of business operations. Navigating through the complexities of these digital uncertainties requires a robust defence mechanism. IT security emerges as a crucial safeguard, shielding data and networks from potential breaches, ensuring business resilience and safeguarding integrity.

How to Set Up a Robust IT Helpdesk

Establishing a robust helpdesk is a pivotal move that lays the foundation for streamlined operations and enhanced customer satisfaction. A well-structured helpdesk is a nexus between users and the solutions to their technical issues, ensuring that problems are addressed promptly and efficiently.

Ensuring Business Continuity with IT Support

The reliance on robust IT infrastructures has become more pronounced than ever for businesses. As organisations traverse the dynamic landscapes of digital transformation, IT support emerges as a cornerstone, ensuring the seamless continuity of business operations.

Choosing the right IT service provider

Navigating the labyrinth of choosing an IT service provider is challenging, and identifying red flags early in the relationship is crucial. Unplanned downtimes are a significant warning sign. Constant technical interruptions that breach SLAs reveal a lack of reliability and expertise. A provider should be a guardian of continuity, ensuring operations run smoothly and efficiently.

Crafting an Effective Data Backup Strategy: A Comprehensive Guide

Loss of crucial data reverberates through a business, leading to disrupted operations, compromised customer trust, and significant financial repercussions. A robust data backup strategy is not merely an optional IT practice but a mandatory safeguard, a resilient shield protecting businesses against the vulnerability of unexpected data loss.

Mini PCs: Your Lean, Mean Computing Machines

When the time comes to refresh your PC fleet, you might not need to refresh the monitors and the keyboards at the same time. If you opt to refresh just the PC, then why not go small? Mini PCs are smaller versions of desktops offering an attractive reduced footprint that's perfect for many offices.

Five IT New Year's Resolutions You Can Happily Break

It's that time of year again where some people will be making new year's resolutions. Many blogs will suggest resolutions for running a better IT operation, but we thought we'd take a different approach this year. Rather than looking at which resolutions you should make, let's look at those that might not always be worth following religiously.

Three Invaluable Tips to Combat Cyberattacks

The threat of cyberattacks is real, and it's more dangerous than ever. Nobelium, a notorious cybercriminal group sponsored by Russia, has been labelled by Microsoft as the most sophisticated hacking group in history.

What to Expect From Microsoft's New Laptops

Microsoft's Surface range of laptops and tablets has evolved over the years. Now it features a bewildering array of models, and the company is about to make it even more confusing this year.

Is Your Supplier Your Greatest Security Threat?

In the modern digital landscape, small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) are increasingly reliant on suppliers and third-party partners to streamline operations.

Hurry, Microsoft ends Support for Windows Server 2012 leaving your business at risk

Microsoft is set to end support for Windows Server 2012 and Windows Server 2012 R2 on October 10, 2023. This means that these products will no longer receive security updates or support, potentially putting your system at risk.

Switch on Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) – It’s Free!

In an era of growing cyber threats, safeguarding your business's digital assets is paramount. One highly effective yet often underutilized tool for enhancing security is Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA).

What exactly is Cyber Essentials?

Cyber Essentials is a simple process and accreditation scheme to serve as your business's shield against cyber-attacks, enhancing your resilience in the face of digital threats.

Why technology buyers should demand greater clarity

The rapid state of change in IT product price and stock levels is seeing buyers struggle to achieve consistent value on purchases. Unfortunately, it’s often the case that, even when buyers believe they have secured best value, the reality is anything but.

Why cheap IT prices often come at a cost: and how to source products the right way

There is now a growing need to reduce those costs across the board, and many buyers are exploring their options - often bypassing traditional channels (and the protections they offer) to secure the cheapest deal.

10 Insider Tips to Master Passwords like a Pro!

In today's digital age, passwords are the keys that unlock the doors to our business's most valuable assets. But let's face it, passwords can be a pain! Many business users struggle with creating and managing secure passwords, putting their sensitive information at risk.

How to keep your firewall secure

In today's digital age, a strong and secure firewall is an essential component for any organization to protect its sensitive data and assets from cyber threats.

How to Slim Down Your Software Portfolio

Enterprise software company Freshworks released a report last year that tracked software bloat. The company found that IT pros spend an average of almost a full work day each week dealing with bloatware.

Patch Tuesday; Microsoft fixes no less than seven critical flaws

It is the second day of the month, and Microsoft is rolling out its latest security updates for various products, including Windows, as part of Patch Tuesday.

Top Reasons Why Your Business Needs Both IT Support and Cybersecurity Services

Cyber threats pose a significant risk to businesses, with potential consequences that could damage operations, assets, and reputation. Many businesses believe that engaging IT support alone is enough to protect against these threats.

Tackling IT market Volatility [Guide]

The IT supply chain is complicated and consists of three tiers. It is built on a global network of manufacturers, distributors and resellers.

Why technology buyers should demand greater clarity when it comes to market volatility

The rapid state of change in IT product price and stock levels is seeing buyers struggle to achieve consistent value on purchases. Unfortunately, it’s often the case that, even when buyers believe they have secured best value, the reality is anything but.

Six Questions To Ask An IT Support Provider

Your IT support provider is your safety net. Choosing the right one can make the difference between a smooth, safe IT environment and hours of unexpected downtime.

How to Spread the Cloud Gospel Among Your Employees

You've invested heavily in your transition to the cloud. Perhaps you've opted for Microsoft 365, or implemented a data analytics system in Azure. Now, you have to get people to use it.

Disaster recovery and backup – the most important layer of your cyber security strategy

One of the biggest challenges facing organisations today is the ability to monitor and mitigate cyber security threats, with 39% of UK businesses suffering an attack in 2022.

How IT buyers can digitalise procurement sooner rather than later

While this might seem a compelling proposition, most IT procurement teams find themselves some way off being in that position. New research has revealed that fewer than one in five (18%) believe they are at the point of full digitalisation – while 28% are yet to make any plans to move in this direction.

Sustainable solutions: 3 top tips for IT buyers

When you consider the lifecycle of a typical piece of IT equipment - from the materials used for components, to energy consumption and disposal - it quickly adds up.

Signs Your IT Supplier Is Not Delivering True Value

As a procurement professional, your role is pivotal in ensuring your organisation receives optimal value from its IT product suppliers. However, it is essential to be aware of signs that your supplier may be taking advantage of your business by not providing genuine value.