Microsoft Exchange Server vs Microsoft Exchange Online

Average on-premise Exchange Server deployment

Average cost of Exchange Server deployment 
for a 20 user office = $13,500


This cost includes:

• Server Hardware
• Exchange Software & Licenses
• Annual Security Certificate
• Installation Labor

Average cost of monthly ongoing 
on-premise Exchange Services = $350

This cost includes:

• Spam Filtering Service
• Cloud Data Backup
• Maintenance Labor

The result is a higher total cost of ownership and slower return on investment for not much added value.

Microsoft Exchange Online Enterprise Plan

Cost of Exchange Online Enterprise Plan 
for a 20 User Office = $160/mo

This cost includes: 

• Spam Filtering
• Cloud Data Backup and Archiving 

Benefits of Exchange Online:

• No need for server hardware
• No Exchange software or licensing costs
• No Security Certificates necessary
• No ongoing proactive maintenance required
• Simplified installation labor
• Outlook web access for both Apple & Android devices
• And maybe the best benefit of all… Microsoft Office 2013 Outlook Client Software is included with a 50GB Mailbox Size per user! Let’s see an Exchange Server supporting 20 users do that! 

The end result of moving your email to the cloud is a low ongoing monthly expense with no upfront capital expenditure, plus all the benefits and flexibility to meet your business communications needs.

Did you know that Windows XP is going end-of-life? This means that Microsoft Outlook 2013 will not run on Windows XP. That could mean no email for you!

Go to http://www.gobiztech.com/exchange-online.aspx for more info about Microsoft Exchange Online

Malware 101

According to Kapersky Labs, more than 33 percent of malware attacks cost businesses their hard-earned money. That amounts to billions of dollars in lost business revenue, downtime and repair costs that are attributed to malware infections every year.

What is Malware?
Malware exists in several forms; including viruses, ransomware, worms, trojan horses, rootkits,

keyloggers, dialers, spyware, adware, malicious browser helper objects, and rogue security software that either presents itself your antivirus control, or disables your antivirus software. Malware has three potential objectives: destruction of data, data collection and transmission, or nuisance and interruption.

Recently, the CryptoLocker Virus, a type of ransomware, has been in the news. This virus installs itself on your computer and encrypts your files so you can’t access them without the proper key. Then, a payment screen pops up, asking you to pay a ransom of $300 for the ‘key’ to decrypt your files! For more information about the CryptoLocker Virus, go to http://gobiztech.blogspot.com/2013/11/cryptolocker-virus-holds-your-important.html.


How to Protect Yourself…

8 Malware Prevention Best Practices

1. Don’t underestimate the importance of backing up your important data.

2.Install a firewall, if you don’t already use one, as the first line of defense against inbound attacks.

3. Make sure you are using good antivirus software that is constantly updated.

4. Keep your operating system (e.g. Windows) updated with current security updates and patches. Did you know XP is going “End of Life”?

5. Use a more secure web browser (Windows Explorer is the most exploited).

6. Use caution when downloading files from the internet- especially browser add-ons and screensavers.

7. Don’t open email attachments or click links unless you know what they are.

8. Never send personal information through an email, even if it looks like it is from a trusted source. You risk identifying yourself as a target.

Is your organization prepared for Windows XP end-of-life?

Support for Windows XP ends on April 8, 2014.

If you have PCs running XP, you will no longer receive software updates from Windows Update. This ends all security updates, hotfixes, driver updates and support.
Running Windows XP in your environment after the end of support date may expose your company to potential risks, such as viruses, spyware, and other malicious software which can steal your business information.

An analysis by International Data Corporation revealed that supporting older Windows XP installations, compared with a modern Windows 7–based solution, burdens organizations with a dramatically higher cost. Annual cost per PC per year for Windows XP is $870, while a comparable Windows 7 installation costs $168 per PC per year. That is an incremental $701 per PC per year for IT and end-user labor costs.

You may be thinking, “But, Windows XP works great for us and we have no hardware issues with our computers, so why should we switch?”

Think about this… On April 8, 2014, Microsoft will release the last batch of XP patches and explanations of what they fix. A few days after that, virus writers will have deconstructed these patches and discovered the underlying security holes.  Then, they release their viruses, ransomware, adware, etc.  The next day, thousands of computers may be infected by the malware, and even if it is removed and all normal precautions are taken, this virus will infect the computers again and again while the Windows XP PC is being used to access the internet.

Organizations that continue to retain a Windows XP environment  not only  are leaving themselves exposed to security risks and support challenges but also are wasting budget dollars that would be better used in modernizing their IT investments. If your organization is bound by regulatory compliance policies, HIPAA or GLBA for example, the end of life for XP is of particular concern. Keeping XP systems in production that are no longer receiving security updates leaves you at risk for failed audits and susceptible to fines due to non-compliance. Many options exist for businesses considering moving to newer PC operating systems.

To understand the best options for your organization, you need a Microsoft Partner who will assess your business needs. BizTech will come to your place of business, assess your PC Network, and you will receive a customized Assessment Report — complete with your organization’s needs and best options to keep your business running smoothly.

Contact BizTech at 419.539.6922 to discuss or schedule your assessment.

CryptoLocker Virus Holds your Important Documents for Ransom

Have you heard of the CryptoLocker Virus yet? If not, be sure to read on!

The CryptoLocker Virus is a form of 'ransomware;' which is a type of malware which restricts access to the Microsoft Windows-running computer that it infects, and demands a ransom paid to the creator of the malware in order for the restriction to be removed.

In the case of the CryptoLocker Virus, it doesn't just restrict access to the computer system. Once downloaded, this ransomware installs itself in your 'Documents and Settings' folder. It then scans the hard drive for different file types- including .doc, .xls, .ppt, .pst, .dwg, .rtf, .dbf, .psd .jpg, .raw, and .pdf- and then encrypts them (makes it so you cannot access them without the proper key).

After encrypting your files, it displays a CryptoLocker payment screen that tells you to send a ransom of usually $300 in order to decrypt the files. This screen will also display a timer stating that you have around 100 hours to pay the ransom or it will delete your key and you will not have any way to get your files back! This ransom must be paid using MoneyPak vouchers or Bitcoins. Once you send the payment and it is verified, the program will decrypt the files that it encrypted.

How can my computer can get infected by CryptoLocker?

1) Via an email attachment- usually looks like an email from a respected company like BBB or FedEx, UPS. For example, you receive a tracking email from a shipping company you do business with. Attached to the email is a .zip file. Opening the attachment launches a virus that finds and encrypts all files you have access to — including those located on any attached drives or mapped network drives.

2) You browse a malicious website that exploits vulnerabilities in an out-of-date version of Java.

3) You’re tricked into downloading a malicious video driver or codec file.

What should I do when I discover my computer is infected with CryptoLocker?
When you discover that your computer is infected with CryptoLocker, the first thing you should do is disconnect it from your wireless or wired network. This will prevent it from further encrypting any files. Some people have reported that once the network connection is disconnected, it will display the CryptoLocker screen.

How do I remove the virus from my computer?Your antivirus software may remove the virus, however, your files will still be encrypted. Recent versions of CryptoLocker will now set your Windows wallpaper to a message that contains a link to a decryption tool that you can download in case this happens. In some cases, people have resorted to paying the ransom to retrieve their files. Some did receive the key and regained access to their files, but this is a very risky option. Your best bet is to recover your system from a previous system backup.

How can I prevent the CryptoLocker Virus from infecting my computer?1)If you get any emails with suspicious attachments, DO NOT open the attachments or click any links in the email messages. 

2)Steer clear of any suspicious websites. Especially ones that may ask you to download a Java update.

3)Make sure you keep complete and recent backups of your system. If you have a small business with networked PCs, you should have automated workstation backups enabled, in addition to server backups.

4)Implement Windows’ Software Restriction Policies rule. This can block CryptoLocker from launching its payload in your computer system. If you need help implementing, contact a BizTech Solution Advisor at 419.539.6922 or via email for more information about this method.We know your files are important and, very likely, essential to your business. Don't hesitate to call or email us for more information about this virus and how to prevent this, and other disasters from affecting your data.


*Information gathered from our Techs and http://windowssecrets.com/top-story/cryptolocker-a-particularly-pernicious-virus/

Toledo, Ohio IT Services- Network Administration,Computer Repair, Printer Repair, Ink & Toner, Disaster Recovery

Whether you’re a small business or a larger organization in the Toledo area, BizTech has the IT solutions to fit your business needs. From Proactive Managed IT Services and Virtualization, to Printer Toner and Computer Repair, we’re here to help you keep your business running as hard and as fast as possible.

BizTech has your back with solutions such as:

• UnlimITed Support Services – 24/7 managed IT services will minimize your technology problems at a fixed monthly rate.
• On-Demand IT Services – We'll fix your technology problems at our hourly rate.
• Network Infrastructure – From deployment to administration, we'll keep your computer network efficient and secure.
• Virtualization Services – With products from Citrix and Microsoft, we can lower your energy costs and make work something you do, not somewhere you have to be.
• Business Continuity – Network backups and database recovery will keep your company from losing profits due to network failure.
• Mobile BI – Access your business data while on the go with smartphone and tablet device integration.
• Printer Services – We’ll keep your printers, copiers & fax machines running with regular maintenance and repairs.
• Ink and Toner Supplies – Order your ink and toner from us and get free delivery in the Toledo area.
• Computer Hardware – We’ve partnered with top manufacturers, like Dell and HP, plus national parts distributors. We remove the hassles of dealing with vendors, while offering competitive prices.

Visit our website at http://www.gobiztech.com/ITServices.aspx for more information about our Northwest Ohio IT Services.

Make your computer start up faster

Does your computer take too long to start up?

If your PC is taking too long to boot, it’s probably because you have too many programs running at startup. Reducing the number of programs the run at startup is an easy fix, and it will make your PC launch noticeably faster.  To change the items running at startup:

1.      Go to Run using the hotkey Windows key + R

2.      Type msconfig

3.      A small window will appear- select the Startup tab

4.      From here you will be able to turn off many startup programs, which can shave several seconds (or minutes) off of your boot time. (Note: Windows 8 has moved this functionality to the Task Manager).

**Be sure to research what you are thinking of turning off, as some processes might be needed by third party programs or drivers you have installed**

Keyboard Tips - Web Browser Shortcuts

Ctrl + N	Open a new window
Ctrl + T	Open a new tab (if your browser supports tabs)
Ctrl + W	Close the current window/tab
Ctrl + R	Refresh
Esc	Stop
Alt + ←	Back
Alt + →	Forward
PageUp	Move up a page
PageDown	Move down a page
Alt + Home	Go to your homepage
Alt + D	Move focus to the address bar to type in a URL
Ctrl + Enter	Add "http://www." and ".com" around an address
MiddleClick	Middle-clicking a tab will close it, even if it's not the active tab

Keyboard Function Keys F1 - F12 - What are they, and how can I use them?

Commonly referred to as the 'function keys,' on a typical keyboard, F1 through F12 may have a variety of different uses in your work day, or no use at all. The keys will operate differently depending on the installed operating system and the software program currently open.  When the function keys are combined with the ALT, Windows or CTRL key, they will have even more uses, i.e. ALT+F4.

Below is a list of some of the common functions of the function keys. Remember, not all programs support function keys and may perform different tasks than those mentioned below. 

F1: 

• Almost always used as the help key, almost every program will open the help screen when this key is pressed. 
• Enter CMOS Setup
• Windows Key + F1 would open the Microsoft Windows help and support center. 
• Open the Task Pane. 

F2:

• Renames a highlighted icon, file, or folder in all versions of Windows. 
• Alt + Ctrl + F2 opens document window in Microsoft Word. 
• Ctrl + F2 displays the print preview window in Microsoft Word. 
• Quickly rename a selected file or folder. 
• Enter CMOS Setup. 

F3:

• Often opens a search feature for many programs, including Microsoft Windows when in the Windows Desktop. 
• In MS-DOS or Windows command line, F3 will repeat the last command. 
• Shift + F3 will change the text in Microsoft Word from upper to lower case or a capital letter at the beginning of every word. 
• Windows Key + F3 opens the Advanced find window in Microsoft Outlook. 
• Open Mission Control on an Apple computer running Mac OS X. 

F4:

• Open find window in Windows 95 to XP. 
• Open the address bar in Windows Explorer and Internet Explorer. 
• Repeat the last action performed (Word 2000+) 
• Alt + F4 will close the program window currently active in Microsoft Windows. 
• Ctrl + F4 will close the open window within the current active window in Microsoft Windows. 

F5:

• In all modern Internet browsers pressing F5 will refresh or reload the page or document window. 
• Open the find, replace, and go to window in Microsoft Word. 
• Starts a slideshow in PowerPoint. 

F6:

• Move the cursor to the Address bar in Internet Explorer, Mozilla Firefox, and most other Internet browsers. 
• Ctrl + Shift + F6 opens to another open Microsoft Word document. 

F7:

• Commonly used to spell check and grammar check a document in Microsoft programs such as Microsoft Word, Outlook, etc. 
• Shift + F7 runs a Thesaurus check on the word highlighted. 
• Turns on Caret browsing in Mozilla Firefox. 

F8: 

• Function key used to enter the Windows startup menu, commonly used to access Windows Safe Mode. 

F9:

• Opens the Measurements toolbar in Quark 5.0. 
• With Mac OS 10.3 or later shows all open Windows. 
• Using the Fn key and F9 at the same time will open Mission Control on an Apple computer running Mac OS X. 

F10:

• In Microsoft Windows activates the menu bar of an open application. 
• Shift + F10 is the same as right-clicking on a highlighted icon, file, or Internet link. 
• Enter CMOS Setup. 
• With Mac OS 10.3 or later shows all open Windows for active program. 

F11:

• Full-screen mode in all modern Internet browsers. 
• With Mac OS 10.4 or later hides all open windows and shows the Desktop. 

F12:

• Open the 'Save as' window in Microsoft Word. 
• Shift + F12 saves a Microsoft Word document. 
• Ctrl + Shift + F12 prints a document in Microsoft Word. 
• Preview a page in Microsoft Expression Web 
• With an Apple running Mac OS 10.4 or later, F12 will show or hide the Dashboard.

These tips were originally found at http://www.computerhope.com/.

Register for a chance to win Toledo Mud Hens Tickets!

Is your head in the clouds when it comes to using and understanding new technology for your business? 

Join BizTech & CISP for an enlightening business and technology seminar focusing on Cloud Computing and Business Continuity. This 2-hour knowledge-share session will combine advanced concepts and technical background on the business initiatives and evolving services that are driving the ‘Cloud’ movement. We will explore the benefits, challenges and potential pitfalls of leveraging new options for working outside of the boundaries of the traditional office space. You will come away with information that is relative to your company’s decision makers and technology users, and will help you as you seek new ways for your business to meet objectives.

Immediately following the seminar- and included in your registration fee- is a Networking Event, where you are invited to join BizTech, CISP and local business persons for a buffet-style dinner and open bar.
When: Tuesday August 20, 2013

Time: 4:00PM
Where: Hilton Garden Inn Toledo/Perrysburg Conference Center, Perrysburg, Ohio

Register by July 31, 2013 for a chance to win four tickets to a Toledo Mud Hens game, including an exclusive pass to the BirdCage Bar & Grill on the Executive Level! 

Register today!
For event details, go to http://www.gobiztech.com/events/Head-In-The-Clouds-Aug-2013.aspx

Toledo / Northwest Ohio Business Technology Seminar & Networking Event

Is your head in the clouds when it comes to using and understanding new technology for your business? 

Join BizTech for an educational business and technology seminar focusing on Cloud Computing and Business Continuity. Stay after the seminar for an evening of food, drinks and networking with area business persons and BizTech’s team of technology experts. 

When:  Tuesday August 20, 2013
Time:   4:00PM
Where: Hilton Garden Inn Toledo/Perrysburg Conference Center
            Perrysburg, Ohio

Event Details:
Emerging and maturing virtual technologies are enabling businesses to meet objectives in unique and exciting ways. Take a deep dive with us into the inner workings of the technology driving the Cloud movement, and explore the higher level concepts and approaches to integrating consumer products into the business space for storage, application services, and server computing.

This 2-hour business and technology session presented by Bill Wass, BizTech’s Technical Operations Manager, will explore the benefits, challenges, and potential pitfalls of leveraging new options for Cloud Computing and Business Continuity. You will gain knowledge relevant to both users and business decision makers. 

You will also meet the BizTech Information Technology Services Team, and hear from a special guest speaker from CISP, a Toledo-based Tier IV Datacenter specializing in Telecommunications, Cloud, and Data Continuity solutions for the business market.

Immediately following the seminar, join BizTech, CISP and your peers for a Networking Event, which includes a buffet-style dinner and open bar.

Register today!

What is the FBI Virus, anyways?

The ‘FBI Virus’ is going around.  We’ve been getting a lot of calls from clients about what it is, and how to get rid of it.  When a computer gets infected with this 'ransomware' (a form of malware), usually a screen will pop up with the FBI logo and will say that your computer has been involved in illegal activity.  Sometimes it will ask you pay a penalty fine to unlock your computer.  This is totally bogus!  Do NOT enter your credit card information.

This malware completely locks up your computer screen, so that you can’t get out of the fake FBI screen.  Once you have the virus, it has likely already disabled your anti-virus software, so cleanup often involves a Safe Mode scan with special anti-malware utilities. In some more series cases, it is necessary to remove the hard drive from the infected computer for offline drive scanning by a second computer setup with anti-malware utilities.

Below are screenshots of three of the different fake FBI virus screens going around..

Please call us at 419.539.6922 if you need help removing this malware.

Tech Tips - Get rid of those pesky cached email addresses in Outlook

Microsoft Outlook has a handy feature that caches the email addresses you type, and offers them up as you type new messages.  This can, at times, be problematic.  If you’ve mistyped an address, Outlook may still cache the incorrect address and provide it the next time you start typing the address.  Also, if there’s an address that you rarely use, and it comes up before a frequently used address, it may be helpful to remove the seldom used address from the cache.

This task is very easily accomplished, but also easily overlooked.  As you begin typing the address in a new message, Outlook will display the list of cached addresses it is suggesting.  Simply click on the “X” next to the name and it is removed from the cache.  Presto!

Thinking of upgrading to Microsoft Office 2013? Read this first.

Be aware that your computer may not run Office 2013

Office 2013 does not work with Windows XP or Vista.  Also, if you opt for Office 365, you can only download the latest version, which is 2013.  If you are one of the many businesses and personal users still using Windows XP or Vista, you should pass on both Office 2013 and 365 until you upgrade to a newer version of Windows.

Know that Office 2013 is not compatible with Exchange 2003

While it is typical of Microsoft to only provide support for the two most recent product versions, this one is a source of frustration for many businesses.  Many companies were not aware of this incompatibility until upgrading to Office 2013, only to find that they couldn’t use Outlook.  If you are planning to upgrade your PCs and Office software, you will need to budget for an upgrade to Exchange 2010 or 2013.  

Spring Cleaning? Don’t forget your PC!

With the hint of spring in the air, your energy levels are up, and so is your productivity. You’re on a roll at work and suddenly—it starts freezing. And we’re not talking about the weather.

PC users have at least one thing in common—we’ve all experienced the distracting error messages, load time lagging, buzzing and whirring that alert us to double-check our backup system just in case the dreaded “blue screen of death” appears. While these signs don’t necessarily mean your PC is going to quit on you anytime soon, they are symptoms of a straining hard drive and an overworked machine.

But it is spring after all… why not extend your spring cleaning regimen to include your PC as well? Follow these simple tips to organize your files, purge unnecessary data and back up important information so your PC is working efficiently and smoothly—and so are you.

Hoard no more
Just because you don’t have old newspapers piling up in your living room doesn’t mean you’re good at letting things go. Remember those photos you downloaded last year or that game that you never play anymore? Those are still on your PC if you haven’t deleted them, and they’re using up valuable space.

Go through all of your programs and files and delete (or back up before deleting) the ones you don’t need or use anymore. Remember, deleting a program from your desktop does not mean it was deleted from your computer—make sure you go through the Start menu to uninstall each of the programs that you want to get rid of. And if you accidentally remove something you need, all of the recent versions of Windows have System Restore, which allows you to restore your PC back to an earlier time to retrieve the deleted information.

Get organized
Now that all of those unnecessary programs and files are out of the way, it’s time to organize the ones you still have. Organizing your files will speed up your productivity by helping you find what you need a lot faster.  There are many apps you can find to help you automatically organize programs and files on your PC, a good one is DropIt.

Back it all up
Everyone knows how important it is to back up your data, but it’s easy to get lazy about it. While you’re organizing your files, it’s a good idea to check and make sure that all of your important information can be recovered in the unfortunate event that your hard drive crashes.

The volume of data accumulated by most businesses can be overwhelming, making it hard to know what you should bother to back up on your PC. It’s a time-consuming process, but you have to take the time to prioritize the types of files you have and assess which ones you couldn’t run your business without—namely financial documents, contacts, and confidential information.

After you decide what to back up, the next decision is how. BizTech offers automatic online data backup from MozyPro.

Speed it up

If, after all of your attempts at cleaning and organizing your PC, it is still going slow, give BizTech a call!  Often times, you will have a virus or malware that you didn’t even know was affecting your computer.  Our experts will diagnose and troubleshoot the problems, and get your device back on track.  We can even take it to the next step and internally clean your computer.  Dust bunnies inside your computer can lead to component failure, fan failure, and slow performance. Find out more about BizTech’s PC repair services.

Make it a habit
Just as you should practice spring cleaning once a year, the process of purging, organizing, backing up data and cleaning the inside of your PC should also be a regular occurrence. The longer you put it off, the more you’ll pay for it later. Stay on top of your organization and your PC will thank you by working better and lasting longer.

These tips are brought to you by the HP Technology at Work Blog

How to configure Windows automatic updates

If you are a Windows user, you should make sure that the Automatic Update feature is configured to automatically download and install updates on a regular schedule.  This will ensure that you have the latest patches and security updates from Microsoft- which can help protect your computer from new and emerging security threats.

For Windows XP users:

To enable Automatic Updates

1. Use Microsoft Internet Explorer to visit Microsoft Update.
2. On the right side of the page, Internet Explorer displays the current status of Automatic Updates:
   • If Automatic Updates is turned on, your computer is protected. Windows XP will automatically install updates. You don’t need to follow the rest of these steps.
   • If Automatic Updates is turned off, click Turn on Automatic Updates.
3. In the Automatic Updates window, click OK.

For Windows Vista/7 users:

1. Open Windows Update by clicking the Start button . In the search box, type Update, and then, in the list of results, click Windows Update.
2. In the left pane, click Change settings.
3. Under Important updates, choose the option that you want.
4. Under Recommended updates, select the Give me recommended updates the same way I receive important updatescheck box, and then click OK.  If you're prompted for an administrator password or confirmation, type the password or provide confirmation.

You can also choose if you want to allow anyone to install updates by selecting the Allow all users to install updates on this computer check box. This applies only to updates and software that are installed manually; automatic updates will be installed regardless of the user.

For Windows 8 users:

In Windows 8, Windows will turn on automatic updating during setup unless you choose to turn it off. You can check this setting and turn on automatic updating in Control Panel. Just open the Search charm, enter Turn automatic updating on or off, and tap or click Settings to find it. You can use Control Panel to turn automatic updating on, and you can also control what Windows does with recommended updates and updates for other Microsoft products.

These tips were found on the Microsoft Windows website & compiled by BizTech Network Consultant, Dan Mizen.

Getting lost trying to use Windows 8?

Windows 8 is out in force.  If you haven’t experienced Microsoft’s newest release, you certainly will soon.  My maiden voyage occurred at Christmas.  I’ll spare you the gory details of my fumblings in front of relatives, as my niece’s brand new still-in-the-box laptop was handed to me to load Microsoft Excel.  I’ll simply say that the following Hotkeys may make your navigation to familiar territory easier than mine was…especially if you have an audience!

• Windows Key + X  -  If you only remember one, remember this!  It will open a menu which includes items such as: Control Panel, Command Prompt, Task Manager, File Explorer, Power Options and Show the desktop.

• Windows Key + D  - Simply shows the desktop

• Windows Key + E  -  This opens ‘My Computer’

• Windows Key + Tab  -  Allows you to cycle through your open apps. 

• Windows Key + F  -  Opens up a search of files

• Windows Key + R  -  Opens ‘Run’

This tip was brought to you by BizTech Networking Consultant, Larry Tussing

Larry Tussing Joins BizTech as an Infor VISUAL & Network Consultant

Toledo, OH – January 16, 2013:  BizTech, a provider of information technology and business software solutions, is pleased to announce the addition of Larry Tussing to its team.  Larry has joined BizTech as an Infor VISUAL & Network Consultant. In this role, Larry will assist clients by providing a variety of technical support services.  Utilizing Larry’s combined experience of supporting Infor VISUAL ERP software and IT systems management will allow BizTech to better serve their clients.

“Larry has significant experience supporting ERP and IT Systems.  Also, he has a thorough understanding of the effects of technology in a business environment,” said Joe Zalewski, Managing Partner and COO at BizTech.  “His versatility will definitely be an advantage for both our VISUAL and Network support clients”.

Larry resides in Pemberville, Ohio and will work from BizTech’s corporate office located in Toledo, Ohio.  Larry has 25 years of experience as an IT Manager in a manufacturing environment, with 14 of those years using and supporting the Infor VISUAL ERP software.  Prior to joining BizTech, Larry worked as the IT Manager for Kennametal Inc.  and Clarke American-Lincoln.  Larry’s strength lies in his versatility and understanding of supporting IT and ERP in manufacturing facilities.  In addition to his many certifications, Larry has an Associates Degree in Computer Science from the University of Findlay.

About BizTech

Founded in 1999 and located in Toledo, Ohio, Business Technical Consulting, LLC (BizTech) is dedicated to providing complete Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP)and Information Technology (IT) solutions that deliver value to our clients. Long-term Partnerships with our clients are forged by investing the time to understand business objectives, so that we can deliver valuable results that will help their organizations to be more productive and profitable.  BizTech delivers results with solutions from industry leading manufacturers such as Infor, Microsoft™, DELL™, HP, Citrix® and Cisco. BizTech is an Infor VISUAL™ ERP Channel Partner, a Microsoft™ Registered Partner, a Citrix® Authorized Solution Advisor, and Comptia A+ Certified.  The BizTech Team has one simple goal: to partner with your company in a joint effort to improve your business processes and increase your profitability.

Integrate your devices with Mobile BI

Have you ever wished that you could check your work email, data or apps from your smartphone or tablet? You can, with BizTech's Mobile BI (Mobile Business Intelligence). 

We can integrate your tablet or smartphone with your corporate network to safely allow access to email, calendars, data and applications on your secure intranet and internal networks to help you work on the go!

Find out more about Mobile BI smartphone and tablet integration

National Clean Your Desk Day

If you see some co-workers cleaning on this coming Monday, January 14, 2013, it may be because of 'National Clean Your Desk Day.'  This got us thinking...how often does the typical office-worker clean his/her desk?  From the looks of the desks around our office, not much.

If your desk is cluttered- first go through the stacks of papers.  If it is a lot of mail, sort it and throw away what isn't needed.  Stackable trays can help you sort papers by what is important, what needs filed and what you still need to look over.  If you have a lot of small office supplies cluttering your desk, get some drawer organizers to keep them in their place.

If you take a lot of notes on paper or have post-its all over, digitize them!  Included in Microsoft Office 2003 and newer versions is the wonderful Microsoft OneNote.  It is a very efficient program you can use to take notes, organize projects and conduct research.  Find out the Top 10 Benefits of of OneNote.

Once the clutter is gone, take a minute to think about what is on your desk/keyboard/mouse/phone that  you can't see...  A few years ago, a study was done by the University of Arizona that found an office desktop had 400 times more bacteria than the average office toilet seat!  All that bacteria can put you at risk for becoming sick, especially if you eat at your desk.

Your keyboard is probably filled with food crumbs, hair, dead skin cells, etc.  That is an easy fix- shut down your computer, turn your keyboard upside down, and shake it out.  A can of compressed air works great, too.  Then, you can wipe the keyboard down with antibacterial wipes or isopropyl alcohol.  A cotton swab works well for between keys.  Then, make sure to wipe down your phone, mouse (get in the grooves), all the buttons and knobs on the computer/monitor/speakers, and your actual desk and drawer handles.  It may be a good idea to wipe down your writing utensils, staplers and scissors too.

Now, run to your office closet and get out the antibacterial wipes and sprays.  It is time for a deep cleaning!