Workstation support is critical for all businesses. Each workstation is a resource that allows each staff member to access the server, write contracts and email, conduct business and create great new designs for the next project. When issues start on the workstation it gets in the way of new ideas and everyday tasks. Businesses need workstation support to avoid delays and downtime that costs money or even causes the loss of a client’s business.
Types of Workstation Support
BlueKey IT supports company computer users with many different types of workstation support. Whether a computer needs to be set up for a new user or a problem occurs while a staff member is working, our team can provide the support needed to get staff back to work. Workstation support can also provide continuity for security practices during setup, employee termination or proactive/reactive responses to new security risks. For any issue that arises or to keep the company abreast of new options for security, programs or more efficient hardware, TeamBlue assists companies to keep downtime to a minimum and save money for business owners.
Setup
Computer setup (new location, new user, old employee, new computer needed)
Computers need to be set up frequently for new employees or when a new computer is available for a current employee. BlueKey provides consistency in the type of set up so a balance of security and access works for each user. The programs that each user needs are readily available so the employee can start working quickly without spending time on set up. It can take 1-4 hours to set up a computer depending on the setup and our team can take care of it all.
Multiple Monitors
Multiple Monitors make daily work easier and the ability to have multiple programs visable at one time makes working more efficient. Setting up an additional monitor or two for a laptop is part of BlueKey’s workstation support. The team can make recommendations for the type of monitors needed and any necessary adaptors necessary to connect them to the computer.
Docking stations
If you have multiple devices like a couple monitors, a printer/scanner or a credit card terminal that needs to be connected to a laptop, a docking station may be needed. BlueKey IT sets up docking stations so when an employee takes a computer out into the field it is easy to get it set up again at the office. The extra resources are then readily available. A laptop only has so many USB, HDMI, DVI, etc. ports available. A docking station expands the number of ports available. This way there are few limits to what a staff member can use to assist workflow.
Printers
Offices have different printer needs. Some need a smaller printer directly connected to each computer. Other offices have larger networked printers that a group of employees share. While some offices have larger printing needs and have commercial copier/printers that available for most employees to utilize. BlueKey IT has tremendous experience with each of these types of printers. For individuals, TeamBlue can work with users to set up the workstation to access the printer. Any issues that arise with usage are supported through the helpdesk either remotely or on-site depending on need. Networked printers can also be setup and serviced as needed. Each employee using the printer can be set up to use the printer as well. BlueKey IT also works alongside third party companies like commercial printing businesses. When the company is ready to set up the printer in the office on the network, they can reach out to our office for support. We can then navigate any issues that arise afterwards so printing can proceed easily. Printing is a necessary part of many business and BlueKey IT Services provides support for each type of printer to help business flow smoothly.
Scanners
Businesses also rely on scanners working efficiently. BlueKey IT set up and provides support for scanners. Whether the scanner is a plug and play scanner or a networked device that is part of a larger copier, TeamBlue will make sure it is accessible through the network for each user that needs it.
Network Connection
Sharing data through the network connection and having an internet connection is vital to every business. Each workstation must be able to share data through and connect to the internet when they need to each day to complete daily work. TeamBlue knows how important these resources are to each client so any network connection issue is an urgent issue. According to our Service Level Agreement, this is an emergency and will get attention immediately to get everyone back to work.
Install or Uninstall programs
Companies use different types of programs. Some programs are consistently used over years and others for a short time. Each use a certain amount of resources on a computer. It is important to keep only current programs on workstations so storage is available for new programs, files or for new programs. BlueKey can install and uninstall programs as needed. For a terminated employee, a computer can be wiped clean so it can be reset for a new user. For current users old programs can be uninstalled to make the computer work more efficiently and make room for newer programs. Reports of usage can be run with information about program usage to allow leadership to keep track of licensing costs and the types of programs employees are using. If desired, TeamBlue can also limit employee rights to download programs so only company programs are on company computers. BlueKey can then install any programs when employees need them.
Computer Maintenance Schedule
Every device has its lifecycle. Most workstations work well for 3-5 years. So companies must have a plan for replacing computers at regular intervals. Then a few computers can be replaced at a time instead of when it will no longer work or work well and the situation is an emergency. A computer maintenance schedule allows a company to look at the ages of each computer and put together a schedule for replacement. This is usually done a few at a time so companies can budge for their purchase. TeamBlue can advise business leaders on which computers need to be replaced and which types computers will fit needs best after a Network Assessment.
Hardwiring versus WiFi
What kind of connection should the office have for workstations? WiFi is easy to implement and access anywhere in the building with access points throughout the building. Hardwiring requires cabling being run to each workstation but creates a more secure and dependable connection. TeamBlue can assess the building and configuration to make suggestions on which type of connection is best.
Email Setup and Management
One of the most common, daily uses for workstations is email. Whether Outlook or Gmail is used, most staff use email frequently. TeamBlue can assist with email set up for new employees, troubleshooting as needed while they work and terminating access at the end of employment. BlueKey also keeps licenses and software up to date so there are no extra charges or issues due to outdated software. This also allows each user to have the best experience with the program they use frequently.
Remote Server Access/VPN/RDP
There are many reasons why staff may need to work remotely. BlueKey IT Services wants each company to be able to work and have necessary access so provides support for remote workstations as well with shared files access and VPN/RDP for access and security. So even when staff members are away from the office, they can work efficiently. TeamBlue assists each company with secure access, assists with the initial set up for each employee, supports usage and terminates access when necessary.
Cloud software
Another common workstation need is the use of cloud software. BlueKey can manage set up of the cloud software so it interacts well with the network and workstations. After set up, individual access is then managed along with troubleshooting any issues with the third party cloud software company. This saves time and money for each company when employees do not need to spend long hours on the phone with many different support companies.
Phones
There are many different types of phone options for employees and are often included with each workstation setup. Although BlueKey does not sell phones, they do make sure they are set up correctly and working with the network. Making sure VoIP phones have sufficient connection for call quality and giving suggestions for recommended vendors with price expectations and Internet connection speed recommendations are all included in our service.
Helpdesk Troubleshooting
No matter the issue BlueKey’s helpdesk is ready to assist! Our technicians can help either by phone or email to help. Common issues with email, printing, scanning, software issues or malfunctions, computers running slowly and remote access can frequently be fixed immediately through a remote connection. This way staff can get back to work quickly without much interruption with assistance from a remote technician. Issues related to connection issues, computer set up and devices connected directly to the workstation may require an on-site visit. Most of our monthly service agreements include all-inclusive support so no matter how big or small, employees can get the help they need quickly. IT projects can also be planned out. BlueKey IT always strives to provide proactive support for each company to avoid crisis and keep any downtime to a minimum.
Security
Workstation support includes keeping computers secure. 60% of all security breaches result from employee error. So it is important have tools to prevent or detect potential issues. BlueKey provides 24/7 monitoring for workstations to detect issues that may arise with the hard drive, internal temperature, etc. The monitoring software also can be used to schedule updates. This way any security patches are deployed on all company workstations in a timely fashion to prevent security breaches. Anti-virus protection can detect many viruses and even prevent threats like Ransomware by detecting the pattern of the attack. These proactive measures can prevent data loss and downtime due to hardware issues and viruses. Security measures like these and many others can prevent security breaches and are included as part of BlueKey IT’s workstation support.
BlueKey IT Workstation Support
Workstation support is vital for the life of every business. BlueKey IT has a proactive plan for companies to support each aspect of technology including workstations. Each workstation is protected with security and backed up with a great helpdesk that can support any issues that arise with the computer and other devices attached to it. This way business owners can rest assured that staff members will be able to work more efficiently and get back to work quickly if a problem occurs.
