How many people are in your IT department? Do you rely on only a few experts? Although this is a very risky proposition, it is not that unusual. What happens when your experts aren’t available?

It is an expectation that IT should align with and support the goals of the business. But wait... is your IT department really structured to accomplish that? In many small to medium sized enterprises (SMEs) the “IT department” is really just one person. Is it really fair or reasonable to expect that one person can be proficient at the broad range of skill sets that make up IT?

On any given day, the IT department will provide assistance on a variety of help desk requests. There may be problems with email, the phone system, office equipment, or internet access. Resolving server and PC requests is a day-to-day activity. Supporting software packages ranging from Microsoft Excel to CAD to Order Entry is a consistent challenge. Maybe the department has to create a report or otherwise respond to a request for information. The company website or online presence probably falls under the broad category of “IT”. Of course, users will always have questions or seek advice on technology matters. You get the picture.

The point is while your “IT Department” is focused on all these things, they may just lose focus on two very important things.

First, there is that strategy thing. For IT to contribute to the business someone must conduct the necessary management and planning necessary to ensure things are done right. It won’t just happen.

Second – and most important – your IT department should be vigilantly protecting your enterprise from millions of threats. Viruses, SPAM, capacity issues – the lists seems to grow every day. Let your guard down and the damage can be devastating.