As business slows down for a week or two at the end of the year it’s a perfect time to review the status of your IT infrastructure. With projects temporarily on hold and employees out of the office on vacation, this is a rare opportunity to tweak and upgrade your technology without drastically impeding day-to-day operations.

One of the most significant costs for small businesses, especially in the startup phase, is the cost of IT equipment. Essential hardware like printers, RFID scanners and servers require a substantial upfront investment and the expense of ongoing maintenance. Many small businesses are shocked to find that they have not properly budgeted for the hardware on which their day-to-day operations rely.

For too many small businesses, IT exists as an abstract concept. It is a vague combination of computers, servers and software that are important for getting business done, but are rarely a business concern. This attitude is understandable, but it is also risky. IT is more than just a one-time expense, it is a living breathing ecosystem that needs constant attention.