But, as with any digital overhaul, your IT needs to be able to keep up and support these changes.

What does it mean for me?

The first phase of making tax digital was introduced in 2019 and aims to make tax records and returns completely paperless by going digital. This should make it easier for businesses to manage their taxes and easily find, view and make changes.

The full digital overhaul is being managed in stages. 2019 saw the first phase affect VAT-registered firms with a taxable turnover above £85,000. The next stage of making tax digital will see all VAT-registered businesses becoming compliant for VAT from April 2022, with self-assessment taxpayers becoming compliant for income tax from April 2023.

Small Changes, Big Impact

Going digital may be a struggle for some firms, but there is no need to panic, as plenty of support is available. There are a range of apps and software that can help your business to make the change. Products like QuickBooks and Xero are good options for making tax digital, while an external advisor or agency can also help you make the change.

Installing new software, or developing your digital processes, in order to keep up can have an impact on your existing IT. However, there are some simple changes you can make yourself to help your IT keep up with making tax digital – and ensure the process is as smooth and efficient as possible.

1. Ensure updates to all applications, software and devices are completed quickly and regularly. Most devices give you the option to automate these updates, and this is a handy feature as it eliminates the need for manually installing the updates. Programmes that are not up to date can slow down performance and affect your device’s overall speed. Keeping on top of updates also ensures that any security vulnerabilities and useability issues are fixed, while you will also benefit from new and improved features as soon as they are available.
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2. We recommend that you regularly perform an IT health check. Make sure all your files are backed up, and run regular anti-virus checks to ensure everything is performing as it should. A data centre is a great option for this as it ensures that security software is deployed and maintained across your entire network, while keeping your files, data and everything else secure.
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3. If you install any new software to help with your digitisation, we recommend that you request a demonstration from the provider. They can show you the best, easiest way to use the software and answer any questions you may have. Obviously, you will learn more as you familiarise yourself with the software, but we always find that it’s useful to hit the ground running. This can save a lot of time and allow you to get on with the important job of running your business.
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4. Once you’re set up with new software, ensure all staff have access to training on how to use it. Whether this is from a trained individual within the team or through a session with the provider, it is important that everyone feels comfortable using the software. This will also help users spot anything out of the ordinary so that they can flag an issue as it arises or make you aware of areas where further training or guidance would be beneficial.

A Helping Hand

Making tax digital provides the perfect opportunity to optimise your IT. As with the tax system, many processes are going online – and even more so with the Covid-19 pandemic – so it is vital that your business stays ahead of the curve and is ready for digitisation. If you have any questions, or want to learn more about future-proofing your IT system, get in touch with a member of our team – we’re always happy to help.

The post Making Tax Digital: can your IT keep up? appeared first on IT Support Services in Huddersfield, Yorkshire.

Gone with the wind

VoIP works via the internet and is a fantastic option for those looking to future-proof their systems. VoIP also lends itself to remote working as there is no need for arduous installation or hardware. The phones can simply be plugged into a router and are good to go.

When it comes to extreme weather, if you’re leaving the office for a period of time, move all tech equipment and wires off the floor. Should the worst happen and water gets into your office, your tech will be out of harm’s way.

Location, location, location

When it comes to storing your devices, if you’re packing away the laptop in exchange for your kitchen table back, be mindful of where you relocate devices to. Don’t leave them in a damp or particularly cold area as this could cause damage to the screen or hard drive. If a laptop has been left in the cold for any period of time, when you bring it back to a warmer environment, be sure to give it time to come to room temperature first. The rapid change in temperature can cause condensation which may lead to electrical problems.

If you’re on the go, try and avoid keeping devices in the car for a long period of time. Not only does this increase the likelihood of them being stolen if spotted though the window, but extended exposure to moisture can cause damage to your screens, especially any with touch screens features.

If you do have to leave them in the car or a colder environment, make sure they’re bundled up and not able to slide around.

Back it up

It’s good practice to back up all your files and data. Make sure this is done before you log off for the festive period. It won’t be a happy New Year if you come back to the office and can’t access your files!

Data centres are a brilliant option as they are always up to date with antivirus software and firewalls, as well as having top physical security to ensure your data is safe and sound and protected from storms and break ins.

Cloud storage is another great option and aids those who will working remotely this winter. Users simply need to login and they can access their data from anywhere in the world at any time of day.

There are simple things you can do to winter-proof your IT, whether that be storing your devices safely or making sure your antivirus is up to date.

If you’re unsure about anything or would like some advice on how to keep your IT safe this winter, get in touch with a member of the team via info@probado.co.uk or give us a call on 01484 905103.

The post How to winter-proof your IT system appeared first on IT Support Services in Huddersfield, Yorkshire.