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Technology Advice for Small Businesses

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Still using Microsoft Office 2016 or 2019? Your business is now at risk

Editor November 7, 2025

Does your business run on Microsoft Office? If you’re still using Office 2016 or Office 2019, you need to know about a major change. As of October 2025, Microsoft has officially stopped supporting these versions. Your Word and Excel files will still open, but the software is no longer being protected. You are now on your own, and that creates a big risk.

Why this is a big deal for your business

“End of support” isn’t just a sales pitch to get you to upgrade. It’s a serious security warning. Your software will keep working, but it’s now a sitting duck.

Losing support means you’ve lost three key things:

  • No more security updates: Hackers and viruses love finding old, unprotected software. Without new security updates, your business is exposed. It’s like knowing criminals have a copy of your office key but deciding not to change the locks.
  • No more bug fixes: If PowerPoint crashes during a big presentation or an Excel glitch corrupts your file, there will be no fix. Think of it as your car’s manufacturer deciding to stop making spare parts. When something breaks, it stays broken.
  • No more help: Are you having problems? Microsoft’s technical support team can no longer help you with Office 2016 or 2019 issues. Your product’s warranty has expired, so you’ll need to find other support options.

What are your options?

Fortunately, you have clear choices to protect your business. Continuing to use the old software shouldn’t be one of them.

Option 1: Move to Microsoft 365

Microsoft 365 is the subscription version of Office, where you pay a monthly or yearly fee to access various apps. It’s best for businesses that want to “set it and forget it” and always have the latest, most secure tools.

Pros

  • You are always up to date and always secure.
  • You get new features as soon as they are released.
  • It often includes other tools such as cloud storage (OneDrive) and communication (Teams).

Option 2: Buy Office 2024

If you prefer the “old” way, you can buy Office 2024 once and own it. Keep in mind that this version will be supported until 2029, so you’ll need to plan for another upgrade after that.

Pros

  • It’s a single, one-time cost.
  • You get the classic apps you know (Word, Excel, Outlook).
  • It’s perfect if you don’t want or need cloud features.

Option 3: Get Office LTSC 2024

You might also hear about a version called Office LTSC 2024. LTSC stands for long-term servicing channel, which is a special, one-time purchase version of Office built purely for stability. It’s designed not to get new feature updates over time, only essential security fixes.

It’s made for specific commercial or government situations. Think of computers that run medical equipment, control machinery on a factory floor, or operate in a lab — devices that need to stay exactly the same for years and often aren’t connected to the internet.

Like the regular Office 2024, it’s supported until 2029. However, it is typically sold through volume licensing and won’t get any of the new tools or features that Microsoft 365 or even the standard Office 2024 might get. For nearly all small businesses, Option 1 (Microsoft 365) or Option 2 (Office 2024) is the simpler and better choice.

It’s not just Office — check these apps too

This end-of-support announcement also affects other related Microsoft programs. It’s a great time to do a quick check-up on all your software.

Make sure you have a plan to upgrade these if you use them:

  • Project (2016 and 2019)
  • Visio (2016 and 2019)
  • Skype for Business (2016 and 2019)

The same thinking also applies to other major products such as Windows 10 and Exchange Server 2016/2019, which are also at or near their end of support.

Don’t wait for a problem, and make a plan today

Your old Office software will keep working, but the risk of a security breach, data loss, or a major glitch is now very high.

Switching systems can take time, so we recommend starting your upgrade plan now. Whether you choose the flexibility of Microsoft 365 or the simplicity of Office 2024, upgrading is a small step that protects your business from big problems. Contact our experts today for help.

Microsoft Office 2016 and Office 2019 support ends: What to do next

Editor November 7, 2025

Are you still using an older version of Microsoft Office, specifically 2016 or 2019? If so, Microsoft has important news for you. Support for these products officially ended in October 2025. While your applications will still run, they are now vulnerable. Microsoft is no longer fixing bugs or, most importantly, patching security holes.

Why this is a big deal for your business

“End of support” isn’t just a sales pitch to get you to upgrade. It’s a serious security warning. Your software will keep working, but it’s now a sitting duck.

Losing support means you’ve lost three key things:

  • No more security updates: Hackers and viruses love finding old, unprotected software. Without new security updates, your business is exposed. It’s like knowing criminals have a copy of your office key but deciding not to change the locks.
  • No more bug fixes: If PowerPoint crashes during a big presentation or an Excel glitch corrupts your file, there will be no fix. Think of it as your car’s manufacturer deciding to stop making spare parts. When something breaks, it stays broken.
  • No more help: Are you having problems? Microsoft’s technical support team can no longer help you with Office 2016 or 2019 issues. Your product’s warranty has expired, so you’ll need to find other support options.

What are your options?

Fortunately, you have clear choices to protect your business. Continuing to use the old software shouldn’t be one of them.

Option 1: Move to Microsoft 365

Microsoft 365 is the subscription version of Office, where you pay a monthly or yearly fee to access various apps. It’s best for businesses that want to “set it and forget it” and always have the latest, most secure tools.

Pros

  • You are always up to date and always secure.
  • You get new features as soon as they are released.
  • It often includes other tools such as cloud storage (OneDrive) and communication (Teams).

Option 2: Buy Office 2024

If you prefer the “old” way, you can buy Office 2024 once and own it. Keep in mind that this version will be supported until 2029, so you’ll need to plan for another upgrade after that.

Pros

  • It’s a single, one-time cost.
  • You get the classic apps you know (Word, Excel, Outlook).
  • It’s perfect if you don’t want or need cloud features.

Option 3: Get Office LTSC 2024

You might also hear about a version called Office LTSC 2024. LTSC stands for long-term servicing channel, which is a special, one-time purchase version of Office built purely for stability. It’s designed not to get new feature updates over time, only essential security fixes.

It’s made for specific commercial or government situations. Think of computers that run medical equipment, control machinery on a factory floor, or operate in a lab — devices that need to stay exactly the same for years and often aren’t connected to the internet.

Like the regular Office 2024, it’s supported until 2029. However, it is typically sold through volume licensing and won’t get any of the new tools or features that Microsoft 365 or even the standard Office 2024 might get. For nearly all small businesses, Option 1 (Microsoft 365) or Option 2 (Office 2024) is the simpler and better choice.

It’s not just Office — check these apps too

This end-of-support announcement also affects other related Microsoft programs. It’s a great time to do a quick check-up on all your software.

Make sure you have a plan to upgrade these if you use them:

  • Project (2016 and 2019)
  • Visio (2016 and 2019)
  • Skype for Business (2016 and 2019)

The same thinking also applies to other major products such as Windows 10 and Exchange Server 2016/2019, which are also at or near their end of support.

Don’t wait for a problem, and make a plan today

Your old Office software will keep working, but the risk of a security breach, data loss, or a major glitch is now very high.

Switching systems can take time, so we recommend starting your upgrade plan now. Whether you choose the flexibility of Microsoft 365 or the simplicity of Office 2024, upgrading is a small step that protects your business from big problems. Contact our experts today for help.

Microsoft ends support for Office 2016 and 2019: What this means

Editor November 7, 2025

If your business uses Microsoft Office, take a moment to check which version you have. Microsoft recently announced that support for Office 2016 and Office 2019 has ended. What does that mean? Your programs won’t disappear, but Microsoft has stopped providing security updates for them. For any business, ignoring this change is dangerous.

Why this is a big deal for your business

“End of support” isn’t just a sales pitch to get you to upgrade. It’s a serious security warning. Your software will keep working, but it’s now a sitting duck.

Losing support means you’ve lost three key things:

  • No more security updates: Hackers and viruses love finding old, unprotected software. Without new security updates, your business is exposed. It’s like knowing criminals have a copy of your office key but deciding not to change the locks.
  • No more bug fixes: If PowerPoint crashes during a big presentation or an Excel glitch corrupts your file, there will be no fix. Think of it as your car’s manufacturer deciding to stop making spare parts. When something breaks, it stays broken.
  • No more help: Are you having problems? Microsoft’s technical support team can no longer help you with Office 2016 or 2019 issues. Your product’s warranty has expired, so you’ll need to find other support options.

What are your options?

Fortunately, you have clear choices to protect your business. Continuing to use the old software shouldn’t be one of them.

Option 1: Move to Microsoft 365

Microsoft 365 is the subscription version of Office, where you pay a monthly or yearly fee to access various apps. It’s best for businesses that want to “set it and forget it” and always have the latest, most secure tools.

Pros

  • You are always up to date and always secure.
  • You get new features as soon as they are released.
  • It often includes other tools such as cloud storage (OneDrive) and communication (Teams).

Option 2: Buy Office 2024

If you prefer the “old” way, you can buy Office 2024 once and own it. Keep in mind that this version will be supported until 2029, so you’ll need to plan for another upgrade after that.

Pros

  • It’s a single, one-time cost.
  • You get the classic apps you know (Word, Excel, Outlook).
  • It’s perfect if you don’t want or need cloud features.

Option 3: Get Office LTSC 2024

You might also hear about a version called Office LTSC 2024. LTSC stands for long-term servicing channel, which is a special, one-time purchase version of Office built purely for stability. It’s designed not to get new feature updates over time, only essential security fixes.

It’s made for specific commercial or government situations. Think of computers that run medical equipment, control machinery on a factory floor, or operate in a lab — devices that need to stay exactly the same for years and often aren’t connected to the internet.

Like the regular Office 2024, it’s supported until 2029. However, it is typically sold through volume licensing and won’t get any of the new tools or features that Microsoft 365 or even the standard Office 2024 might get. For nearly all small businesses, Option 1 (Microsoft 365) or Option 2 (Office 2024) is the simpler and better choice.

It’s not just Office — check these apps too

This end-of-support announcement also affects other related Microsoft programs. It’s a great time to do a quick check-up on all your software.

Make sure you have a plan to upgrade these if you use them:

  • Project (2016 and 2019)
  • Visio (2016 and 2019)
  • Skype for Business (2016 and 2019)

The same thinking also applies to other major products such as Windows 10 and Exchange Server 2016/2019, which are also at or near their end of support.

Don’t wait for a problem, and make a plan today

Your old Office software will keep working, but the risk of a security breach, data loss, or a major glitch is now very high.

Switching systems can take time, so we recommend starting your upgrade plan now. Whether you choose the flexibility of Microsoft 365 or the simplicity of Office 2024, upgrading is a small step that protects your business from big problems. Contact our experts today for help.

8 AI features in modern web browsers you should be using

Editor November 5, 2025

Think your browser is just for clicking links? Think again. Here are eight AI-powered features built into modern browsers that are making web surfing faster, smarter, and safer than ever before.

Content summarization

Content summarization tools now built into browsers or available as native features can scan an entire page and distill it down to the key takeaways. And they don’t just highlight a paragraph or two. These summaries use language models to understand the structure of the content, so you get a coherent digest that saves you from skimming endlessly.

Real-time translation

Modern browsers can automatically detect a website’s language and translate it on the spot using AI-powered engines. Unlike older translation tools that often misinterpreted grammar and context, newer systems provide more accurate, natural translations. They adeptly capture the original tone and nuance, making it easier to access foreign content, explore new cultures online, and collaborate across language barriers.

Built-in AI assistants

AI assistants in web browsers such as Gemini in Chrome are becoming more widespread. These assistants integrate directly into the browser, allowing users to ask questions, summarize content, generate text, or search more effectively, all without switching tabs or opening new tools. Because they’re built into the browsing experience, they can tailor their responses based on the current page, offering more relevant and contextual support.

What’s more, unlike static assistants that just respond to prompts, these AI assistants have more agency and can take actions on behalf of the user. That means they can click on links, navigate websites, extract data, or fill out forms automatically. These features make complex online tasks such as comparing product specs, booking services, or managing workflows much faster by automating repetitive steps.

Smarter tab management

AI-enhanced tab managers categorize open tabs based on content, suggest which ones to close, and automatically group similar tabs together. Some also decrease memory usage by suspending inactive tabs to help users stay organized, reduce browser lag, and make multitasking far less chaotic.

Contextual links and in-page discovery

Sometimes, you come across a term you don’t know but don’t want to leave the page to look it up. Modern browsers use AI to provide real-time contextual information. Just hover over a link or highlight a phrase, and sidebars or pop-ups appear with related insights, definitions, or videos. You can then quickly grasp and explore new topics without interrupting your browsing experience.

Natural language search

Instead of relying on exact keywords, modern browsers now allow users to type queries in everyday language. AI interprets the meaning behind the question, such as timeframes, comparisons, or intent, and delivers more accurate and relevant results.

Enhanced visual search

In newer web browsers, users are now able to right-click an image or upload one to perform an AI-powered search. The browser then identifies what’s in the image — be it a product, landmark, or text — and returns with useful information, such as the source, related images, and shopping options. By taking advantage of this feature, users no longer have to manually search for information about an image, saving them time and effort.

Improved browsing protection

Staying safe online requires more than a pop-up blocker. AI-powered protection in browsers now spots malicious websites, phishing attempts, and sneaky trackers with greater precision. These tools can analyze patterns and behaviors, not just URLs, to detect threats or privacy risks that traditional methods might miss. Some browsers even warn you before you click, saving you from potential harm.

If you’re still thinking of your browser as just a place to check email or scroll social media, you’re missing out on powerful tools already at your fingertips. Contact us now to discover new AI features and useful productivity hacks that can improve your online experience.

AI-powered browsers: Useful features you should take advantage of

Editor November 5, 2025

A web browser used to be little more than a portal to websites. Fast forward to today, and web browsers have evolved into intelligent digital platforms. Thanks to AI (artificial intelligence), they’re now packed with smart tools that assist, protect, and even think alongside you as you browse. Let’s take a closer look at the AI-powered features that are improving browsing experiences.

Content summarization

Content summarization tools now built into browsers or available as native features can scan an entire page and distill it down to the key takeaways. And they don’t just highlight a paragraph or two. These summaries use language models to understand the structure of the content, so you get a coherent digest that saves you from skimming endlessly.

Real-time translation

Modern browsers can automatically detect a website’s language and translate it on the spot using AI-powered engines. Unlike older translation tools that often misinterpreted grammar and context, newer systems provide more accurate, natural translations. They adeptly capture the original tone and nuance, making it easier to access foreign content, explore new cultures online, and collaborate across language barriers.

Built-in AI assistants

AI assistants in web browsers such as Gemini in Chrome are becoming more widespread. These assistants integrate directly into the browser, allowing users to ask questions, summarize content, generate text, or search more effectively, all without switching tabs or opening new tools. Because they’re built into the browsing experience, they can tailor their responses based on the current page, offering more relevant and contextual support.

What’s more, unlike static assistants that just respond to prompts, these AI assistants have more agency and can take actions on behalf of the user. That means they can click on links, navigate websites, extract data, or fill out forms automatically. These features make complex online tasks such as comparing product specs, booking services, or managing workflows much faster by automating repetitive steps.

Smarter tab management

AI-enhanced tab managers categorize open tabs based on content, suggest which ones to close, and automatically group similar tabs together. Some also decrease memory usage by suspending inactive tabs to help users stay organized, reduce browser lag, and make multitasking far less chaotic.

Contextual links and in-page discovery

Sometimes, you come across a term you don’t know but don’t want to leave the page to look it up. Modern browsers use AI to provide real-time contextual information. Just hover over a link or highlight a phrase, and sidebars or pop-ups appear with related insights, definitions, or videos. You can then quickly grasp and explore new topics without interrupting your browsing experience.

Natural language search

Instead of relying on exact keywords, modern browsers now allow users to type queries in everyday language. AI interprets the meaning behind the question, such as timeframes, comparisons, or intent, and delivers more accurate and relevant results.

Enhanced visual search

In newer web browsers, users are now able to right-click an image or upload one to perform an AI-powered search. The browser then identifies what’s in the image — be it a product, landmark, or text — and returns with useful information, such as the source, related images, and shopping options. By taking advantage of this feature, users no longer have to manually search for information about an image, saving them time and effort.

Improved browsing protection

Staying safe online requires more than a pop-up blocker. AI-powered protection in browsers now spots malicious websites, phishing attempts, and sneaky trackers with greater precision. These tools can analyze patterns and behaviors, not just URLs, to detect threats or privacy risks that traditional methods might miss. Some browsers even warn you before you click, saving you from potential harm.

If you’re still thinking of your browser as just a place to check email or scroll social media, you’re missing out on powerful tools already at your fingertips. Contact us now to discover new AI features and useful productivity hacks that can improve your online experience.

How AI is supercharging modern web browsers

Editor November 5, 2025

Artificial intelligence (AI) isn’t just powering self-driving cars and voice assistants anymore. Web browsers are the latest to get smart, with features that once seemed futuristic now built right in. Learn how today’s browsers go far beyond just loading web pages.

Content summarization

Content summarization tools now built into browsers or available as native features can scan an entire page and distill it down to the key takeaways. And they don’t just highlight a paragraph or two. These summaries use language models to understand the structure of the content, so you get a coherent digest that saves you from skimming endlessly.

Real-time translation

Modern browsers can automatically detect a website’s language and translate it on the spot using AI-powered engines. Unlike older translation tools that often misinterpreted grammar and context, newer systems provide more accurate, natural translations. They adeptly capture the original tone and nuance, making it easier to access foreign content, explore new cultures online, and collaborate across language barriers.

Built-in AI assistants

AI assistants in web browsers such as Gemini in Chrome are becoming more widespread. These assistants integrate directly into the browser, allowing users to ask questions, summarize content, generate text, or search more effectively, all without switching tabs or opening new tools. Because they’re built into the browsing experience, they can tailor their responses based on the current page, offering more relevant and contextual support.

What’s more, unlike static assistants that just respond to prompts, these AI assistants have more agency and can take actions on behalf of the user. That means they can click on links, navigate websites, extract data, or fill out forms automatically. These features make complex online tasks such as comparing product specs, booking services, or managing workflows much faster by automating repetitive steps.

Smarter tab management

AI-enhanced tab managers categorize open tabs based on content, suggest which ones to close, and automatically group similar tabs together. Some also decrease memory usage by suspending inactive tabs to help users stay organized, reduce browser lag, and make multitasking far less chaotic.

Contextual links and in-page discovery

Sometimes, you come across a term you don’t know but don’t want to leave the page to look it up. Modern browsers use AI to provide real-time contextual information. Just hover over a link or highlight a phrase, and sidebars or pop-ups appear with related insights, definitions, or videos. You can then quickly grasp and explore new topics without interrupting your browsing experience.

Natural language search

Instead of relying on exact keywords, modern browsers now allow users to type queries in everyday language. AI interprets the meaning behind the question, such as timeframes, comparisons, or intent, and delivers more accurate and relevant results.

Enhanced visual search

In newer web browsers, users are now able to right-click an image or upload one to perform an AI-powered search. The browser then identifies what’s in the image — be it a product, landmark, or text — and returns with useful information, such as the source, related images, and shopping options. By taking advantage of this feature, users no longer have to manually search for information about an image, saving them time and effort.

Improved browsing protection

Staying safe online requires more than a pop-up blocker. AI-powered protection in browsers now spots malicious websites, phishing attempts, and sneaky trackers with greater precision. These tools can analyze patterns and behaviors, not just URLs, to detect threats or privacy risks that traditional methods might miss. Some browsers even warn you before you click, saving you from potential harm.

If you’re still thinking of your browser as just a place to check email or scroll social media, you’re missing out on powerful tools already at your fingertips. Contact us now to discover new AI features and useful productivity hacks that can improve your online experience.

Is your business continuity plan built to fail? Watch for these pitfalls

Editor November 3, 2025

Unexpected events such as natural disasters, hardware failures, or cyberattacks can quickly upend your operations. While a well-built business continuity plan (BCP) can minimize those risks, that’s only if it’s properly developed and maintained. But too often, businesses forget crucial details that can undercut their crisis response.

Below are the top pitfalls businesses face when crafting their continuity strategies, along with practical ways to avoid them:

Skipping a thorough risk review

Business owners tend to zero in on one or two risks, such as cyberattacks, while overlooking others, including severe weather, supply chain disruptions, or staffing shortages. These oversights can leave their BCPs unprepared, making their operations vulnerable. To prevent this, conduct a comprehensive risk assessment that identifies all potential threats and their impact on your business.

Failing to prepare the team

Your business continuity plan is only effective if employees know how to carry it out. That said, a smooth response during a crisis depends on everyone understanding their roles. Through regular training sessions, walkthroughs, and drills, you can reinforce that understanding and build the confidence to act under pressure.

Not testing the plan in realistic scenarios

Businesses often create a BCP and set it aside, assuming it will work as intended during a disruption. However, unless you test it with realistic simulations or mock incidents, there’s no way to know how well it will actually hold up. That’s why routine testing is vital; it helps reveal gaps, refine processes, and confirm the plan’s feasibility.

Underestimating your tech reliance

Technology drives nearly every part of modern business, from internal communication and sales to logistics and customer service. However, many organizations overlook just how dependent they are on specific systems, software, or data. Failing to account for this reliance can leave you unprepared when an important platform goes down.

You can avoid this by identifying your mission-critical systems and putting clear contingency plans in place. Whether it’s a data backup platform, a manual workaround, or a preconfigured recovery setup, document your measures in your BCP.

Poor communication planning

In the event of an emergency, effective communication is key to executing a strong response. Without a clear strategy for keeping staff, vendors, customers, and stakeholders informed, confusion can spread quickly. Thus, to keep everyone on the same page, define a communication chain and prepare reliable channels, such as group messaging platforms, SMS alerts, automated call trees, or dedicated emergency apps.

Ignoring your supply chain

Suppliers and vendors are vital to your operations, yet they’re often left out of business continuity planning. This oversight can have serious financial consequences. Consider a manufacturer that relies on a single supplier for a critical part. If that supplier goes offline, that production line grinds to a halt, resulting in missed deadlines and lost revenue.

You can reduce such risks by including suppliers in your continuity strategy. That means establishing clear communication protocols for disruptions, understanding each partner’s recovery timeline, and lining up backup vendors if necessary.

Relying too heavily on insurance

Insurance can support recovery after a disaster, but it won’t prevent operational disruptions or financial losses. Even more concerning, many businesses assume they’re fully covered, only to realize too late that their policies don’t cover key risks. To avoid surprises, review your policies regularly to ensure coverage aligns with how your business actually operates and the risks it faces.

Making the plan too complicated

When every second counts, simplicity matters. A business continuity plan full of jargon and complex flowcharts might seem comprehensive, but it’s useless if your team can’t understand it. Focus on clarity and ease of execution to ensure the plan works when it’s needed most.

Letting the plan get outdated

A business continuity plan that worked last year may no longer be effective. As your business evolves — with new systems, additional users, or expanded services — its needs change. On top of that, new threats can emerge at any time. Therefore, it’s important to revisit your BCP, especially after major organizational or environmental changes, to make sure it still addresses your new risks and priorities.

A business continuity plan is your company’s lifeline during uncertain times, but even small mistakes can weaken it. By avoiding these common pitfalls, you create a plan that’s not only comprehensive but truly reliable when it matters most.

If you’re unsure where to start or how to strengthen your business continuity plan, our experts are here to help.

The top errors that can sabotage your business continuity strategy

Editor November 3, 2025

Treating a business continuity plan (BCP) as a mere formality is risky. After all, it’s the blueprint for keeping your operations up and running during a disruption. Yet, even well-documented plans can fail if they rely on faulty assumptions or neglect essential components.

Below are the top pitfalls businesses face when crafting their continuity strategies, along with practical ways to avoid them:

Skipping a thorough risk review

Business owners tend to zero in on one or two risks, such as cyberattacks, while overlooking others, including severe weather, supply chain disruptions, or staffing shortages. These oversights can leave their BCPs unprepared, making their operations vulnerable. To prevent this, conduct a comprehensive risk assessment that identifies all potential threats and their impact on your business.

Failing to prepare the team

Your business continuity plan is only effective if employees know how to carry it out. That said, a smooth response during a crisis depends on everyone understanding their roles. Through regular training sessions, walkthroughs, and drills, you can reinforce that understanding and build the confidence to act under pressure.

Not testing the plan in realistic scenarios

Businesses often create a BCP and set it aside, assuming it will work as intended during a disruption. However, unless you test it with realistic simulations or mock incidents, there’s no way to know how well it will actually hold up. That’s why routine testing is vital; it helps reveal gaps, refine processes, and confirm the plan’s feasibility.

Underestimating your tech reliance

Technology drives nearly every part of modern business, from internal communication and sales to logistics and customer service. However, many organizations overlook just how dependent they are on specific systems, software, or data. Failing to account for this reliance can leave you unprepared when an important platform goes down.

You can avoid this by identifying your mission-critical systems and putting clear contingency plans in place. Whether it’s a data backup platform, a manual workaround, or a preconfigured recovery setup, document your measures in your BCP.

Poor communication planning

In the event of an emergency, effective communication is key to executing a strong response. Without a clear strategy for keeping staff, vendors, customers, and stakeholders informed, confusion can spread quickly. Thus, to keep everyone on the same page, define a communication chain and prepare reliable channels, such as group messaging platforms, SMS alerts, automated call trees, or dedicated emergency apps.

Ignoring your supply chain

Suppliers and vendors are vital to your operations, yet they’re often left out of business continuity planning. This oversight can have serious financial consequences. Consider a manufacturer that relies on a single supplier for a critical part. If that supplier goes offline, that production line grinds to a halt, resulting in missed deadlines and lost revenue.

You can reduce such risks by including suppliers in your continuity strategy. That means establishing clear communication protocols for disruptions, understanding each partner’s recovery timeline, and lining up backup vendors if necessary.

Relying too heavily on insurance

Insurance can support recovery after a disaster, but it won’t prevent operational disruptions or financial losses. Even more concerning, many businesses assume they’re fully covered, only to realize too late that their policies don’t cover key risks. To avoid surprises, review your policies regularly to ensure coverage aligns with how your business actually operates and the risks it faces.

Making the plan too complicated

When every second counts, simplicity matters. A business continuity plan full of jargon and complex flowcharts might seem comprehensive, but it’s useless if your team can’t understand it. Focus on clarity and ease of execution to ensure the plan works when it’s needed most.

Letting the plan get outdated

A business continuity plan that worked last year may no longer be effective. As your business evolves — with new systems, additional users, or expanded services — its needs change. On top of that, new threats can emerge at any time. Therefore, it’s important to revisit your BCP, especially after major organizational or environmental changes, to make sure it still addresses your new risks and priorities.

A business continuity plan is your company’s lifeline during uncertain times, but even small mistakes can weaken it. By avoiding these common pitfalls, you create a plan that’s not only comprehensive but truly reliable when it matters most.

If you’re unsure where to start or how to strengthen your business continuity plan, our experts are here to help.

Avoid these business continuity mistakes before it’s too late

Editor November 3, 2025

Unexpected disruptions, such as natural disasters and cyberattacks, can knock your business off course. Thus, it’s critical to develop a strong business continuity plan (BCP), but having one isn’t enough. How you create, maintain, and execute it is just as important. Unfortunately, many businesses make avoidable mistakes during the planning process that leave them vulnerable in a crisis.

Below are the top pitfalls businesses face when crafting their continuity strategies, along with practical ways to avoid them:

Skipping a thorough risk review

Business owners tend to zero in on one or two risks, such as cyberattacks, while overlooking others, including severe weather, supply chain disruptions, or staffing shortages. These oversights can leave their BCPs unprepared, making their operations vulnerable. To prevent this, conduct a comprehensive risk assessment that identifies all potential threats and their impact on your business.

Failing to prepare the team

Your business continuity plan is only effective if employees know how to carry it out. That said, a smooth response during a crisis depends on everyone understanding their roles. Through regular training sessions, walkthroughs, and drills, you can reinforce that understanding and build the confidence to act under pressure.

Not testing the plan in realistic scenarios

Businesses often create a BCP and set it aside, assuming it will work as intended during a disruption. However, unless you test it with realistic simulations or mock incidents, there’s no way to know how well it will actually hold up. That’s why routine testing is vital; it helps reveal gaps, refine processes, and confirm the plan’s feasibility.

Underestimating your tech reliance

Technology drives nearly every part of modern business, from internal communication and sales to logistics and customer service. However, many organizations overlook just how dependent they are on specific systems, software, or data. Failing to account for this reliance can leave you unprepared when an important platform goes down.

You can avoid this by identifying your mission-critical systems and putting clear contingency plans in place. Whether it’s a data backup platform, a manual workaround, or a preconfigured recovery setup, document your measures in your BCP.

Poor communication planning

In the event of an emergency, effective communication is key to executing a strong response. Without a clear strategy for keeping staff, vendors, customers, and stakeholders informed, confusion can spread quickly. Thus, to keep everyone on the same page, define a communication chain and prepare reliable channels, such as group messaging platforms, SMS alerts, automated call trees, or dedicated emergency apps.

Ignoring your supply chain

Suppliers and vendors are vital to your operations, yet they’re often left out of business continuity planning. This oversight can have serious financial consequences. Consider a manufacturer that relies on a single supplier for a critical part. If that supplier goes offline, that production line grinds to a halt, resulting in missed deadlines and lost revenue.

You can reduce such risks by including suppliers in your continuity strategy. That means establishing clear communication protocols for disruptions, understanding each partner’s recovery timeline, and lining up backup vendors if necessary.

Relying too heavily on insurance

Insurance can support recovery after a disaster, but it won’t prevent operational disruptions or financial losses. Even more concerning, many businesses assume they’re fully covered, only to realize too late that their policies don’t cover key risks. To avoid surprises, review your policies regularly to ensure coverage aligns with how your business actually operates and the risks it faces.

Making the plan too complicated

When every second counts, simplicity matters. A business continuity plan full of jargon and complex flowcharts might seem comprehensive, but it’s useless if your team can’t understand it. Focus on clarity and ease of execution to ensure the plan works when it’s needed most.

Letting the plan get outdated

A business continuity plan that worked last year may no longer be effective. As your business evolves — with new systems, additional users, or expanded services — its needs change. On top of that, new threats can emerge at any time. Therefore, it’s important to revisit your BCP, especially after major organizational or environmental changes, to make sure it still addresses your new risks and priorities.

A business continuity plan is your company’s lifeline during uncertain times, but even small mistakes can weaken it. By avoiding these common pitfalls, you create a plan that’s not only comprehensive but truly reliable when it matters most.

If you’re unsure where to start or how to strengthen your business continuity plan, our experts are here to help.

Are you still solely relying on passwords? It’s time for an upgrade

Editor October 31, 2025

Passwords have historically served as the primary defense for online accounts, but they’re no longer effective on their own. With the rise of evolving threats and increasingly sophisticated cyberattacks, experts recommend fortifying your logins with additional authentication methods.

Why your security strategy must go beyond passwords

Cybersecurity experts at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) now warn that passwords are fundamentally vulnerable and should be avoided whenever possible. Even the strongest password can be compromised in two common ways:

  • Phishing: Cybercriminals deploy deceptive tactics, luring users into revealing their credentials through fake login links designed to mimic legitimate sites. Once a user enters their information, the attacker captures it, rendering the password’s strength irrelevant.
  • Offline attacks: These attacks involve cybercriminals stealing encrypted password databases during a data breach. They then leverage powerful computers to run automated password-cracking programs offline. A modern PC can attempt up to 100 billion guesses per second, meaning an eight-character password with a capital letter, a number, and a symbol can be deciphered almost instantly.

Given these threats, your focus must shift from creating better passwords to implementing additional security measures.

Your new security hierarchy for 2025 and beyond

To truly secure your accounts, follow this modern hierarchy of defense recommended by cybersecurity experts.

Priority #1: Activate passkeys (the password replacement)

The biggest change in digital security is the move to passkeys, a safer alternative to passwords. Passkeys store a private digital key on your phone or laptop. You can log in to your accounts by verifying your device with a PIN or fingerprint.

Passkeys are phishing-resistant; you can’t be tricked into typing a passkey on a fake website. They’re also unique to every site, so a data breach at one company won’t expose your other accounts.

Action step: Check your account settings for “Security” or “Login Options” and select Create a Passkey wherever available.

Priority #2: Enable multifactor authentication (MFA)

For any account that doesn’t support passkeys, enabling MFA is a critical step you can take to secure it.

MFA adds another layer of protection beyond just your password. It asks for another verification factor, which can be something you have (e.g., your phone) or something you are (e.g., your fingerprint). That way, even if a cybercriminal gets your password, they still can’t access your account without completing the extra authentication step.

While many services use SMS codes for MFA, security experts at NIST warn that these can be intercepted. For better security, prioritize more robust methods, such as:

  • Authenticator apps (e.g., Google Authenticator, Microsoft Authenticator)
  • Physical security keys (e.g., USB dongles)
  • Push notifications sent from a trusted app on your device

Action step: Review the security settings of your key accounts (e.g., email, banking, and social media), and turn on MFA wherever possible.

Priority #3: Use a password manager

Many accounts still require traditional passwords. Since it’s impossible to remember a long, unique password for each one, use a password manager. This application generates and securely stores all your unique credentials, simplifying digital security by requiring you to remember only one master password to access them.

Action step: Install a reputable password manager, and let it create strong, unique passwords for your nonpasskey accounts.

What to do if you must create a password

If you need to create a password, NIST’s 2025 guidance is clear: length matters most. Aim for at least 15 characters.

NIST no longer recommends mandating special characters, numbers, or uppercase letters for password requirements. Although complexity contributes to password strength, length is far more effective. A 10-character complex password (e.g., Tr@ub4d0r!) is far weaker than a simple 20-character password.

The easiest way to create a long, memorable password is to string together several unrelated words. A passphrase such as “cassettelavababyriver” is 21 characters long, which is easy for you to remember but would take a long time for a computer to crack.

To keep up with the latest cybersecurity practices and IT trends, connect with our IT professionals today.

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