How AI is changing workplace surveillance
Companies are always looking for new ways to boost productivity, and artificial intelligence (AI) has become a key tool in achieving this goal. AI-powered employee monitoring software, often referred to as bossware, is transforming how performance is evaluated. But as these tools gain traction, ethical questions about privacy and fairness are being raised. Tracking beyond time metrics According to a 2024 survey by ExpressVPN, 61% of businesses now use AI-powered monitoring systems to evaluate staff performance. Initially designed to track work hours or block inappropriate websites, bossware has evolved far beyond its original scope. Today’s bossware tools feature advanced capabilities such as facial recognition, emotion detection, and automated reports that assess how productive an employee’s day is. Some even flag unusual behaviors, such as frequent breaks or changes in typing rhythm, that could indicate burnout, distraction, or a potential risk of resignation. While this technology may seem efficient, it raises serious concerns. Many employers are using these analytics to make critical decisions such as determining layoffs. However, data alone often fails to capture the full picture. Algorithms often operate without context, misinterpreting nuances such as the tone of messages or unfairly penalizing employees for unconventional work styles. Even more troubling is when AI makes high-stakes decisions without providing clear explanations, leaving employees confused and vulnerable. Privacy, pressure, and pushback Critics argue that bossware may be doing more harm than good by fostering a culture of surveillance that erodes trust and harms employee well-being. Some monitoring systems push employees to work faster, skip breaks, and remain constantly active. The pressure to remain productive can lead to burnout, physical strain, and a huge drop in motivation. In response, employees are finding ways to counter these tools, using devices such as mouse jigglers to avoid being marked as idle or streaming videos to keep their screens active. The battle between monitoring software and employee ingenuity highlights the growing tension between digital oversight and workplace autonomy. The regulation gap Despite the sensitive nature of data collected by bossware, regulatory safeguards in the United States are notably lacking. While states such as California, New York, and Massachusetts have introduced laws related to automated decision-making, most proposals haven’t passed, leaving a sizable gap in employee protections. Some pending bills aim to give workers the right to challenge AI-based decisions or demand transparency in how they’re evaluated. Others propose independent audits to ensure fairness. But until such measures become law, employers retain broad discretion over how they use monitoring technologies. Not all bossware solutions are bad AI-powered employee monitoring isn’t inherently harmful. When used responsibly, it can support healthier work environments. For example, anonymous mood-tracking tools can help leaders detect anxiety or low morale following major announcements, promoting more compassionate leadership. Final thoughts Can employees truly thrive in a workplace where every click, pause, or keystroke is tracked — and potentially misjudged — by an algorithm? Or is it time to redefine what productivity means in the age of AI? As AI continues to reshape the modern workplace, the answers to these questions will help define the future of work. Stay ahead of the curve on tech trends and insights — get in touch with our IT experts today.
What developers should focus on to strengthen software security
A recent analysis of the most damaging software attacks revealed that many cybersecurity guides overlook critical protections, leaving systems exposed to threats. However, developers can adopt practical steps to enhance their defenses significantly. Here’s a breakdown of these 10 essential practices, explained in plain language. Limit access based on roles Not everyone needs access to every part of a system. Granting access based on an individual’s role can mitigate damage in case an account is compromised. The concept is simple: everyone should have access only to the resources and tools necessary for their specific responsibilities. Monitor your systems consistently Keep a close eye on your software, servers, and tools. Continuous monitoring helps detect unusual activity early. This way, when unexpected changes occur, such as a sudden drop in account activity or unauthorized access to sensitive data, you can catch them immediately. Control communication at key connection points Your application doesn’t exist in a vacuum. It often connects with outside systems or tools. Monitoring these key connection points, particularly where internal and external systems meet, can help block potential threats and intrusions. Track changes to system settings When attackers gain access, they often change settings to create backdoors or weaken defenses. By logging and reviewing changes to your system configurations, you can spot unusual activity and investigate it quickly. Require secure logins for everyone Weak login practices are one of the easiest ways for hackers to get in a system. Strong passwords and multifactor authentication should be the rule for all users, including part-time team members or contractors. Update software components when fixes are available Most applications rely on external software packages or tools that must be updated regularly, particularly when critical security patches are released. Failing to install these updates leaves apps vulnerable to known security risks, significantly increasing their exposure to potential threats. Consider the ways your software might be attacked Before an attacker finds a weak spot, try to find it yourself. Often called threat modeling, this process helps you understand how your app might be targeted so you can take preventive action. Share information only with those who need it Reduce the amount of sensitive data handled within your system, and make sure it’s only used when absolutely necessary. When you minimize its exposure and restrict its usage to essential situations, you lower the risk of data being compromised or mishandled. Protect data stored in your systems Always encrypt and securely store your data. Should hackers manage to steal your encrypted data, it will remain indecipherable and significantly less valuable to them. Prioritize fixing the biggest risks first Not every issue is equally urgent. Focus on fixing the most critical problems first, especially those that could be easily exploited. By prioritizing based on risk, you can make the best use of your team’s time and effort. Want to improve your cybersecurity posture? Contact our team today, and we’ll help you fortify your defenses.
Activate Siri on macOS without giving Apple access to your contacts
Mac users love the convenience of Siri for performing quick tasks or finding information. However, enabling Siri on macOS often comes with a privacy tradeoff: sharing your contacts and more with Apple. While this may not seem significant to some, it raises valid concerns for users deeply invested in safeguarding their personal data. Why does Siri need access to your contacts? When you enable Siri on macOS, Apple collects certain data, including your contact names, nicknames, and relationships (e.g., “Mom” or “Boss”). This helps Siri provide personalized assistance such as calling a specific contact or setting location-based reminders. Apple claims to use this data to enhance Siri’s capabilities, but some users prefer to keep their information out of reach. If you value privacy but still want to benefit from Siri’s features, there’s no need to compromise. A couple of workarounds can let you enable this useful virtual assistant while keeping your data safe. The temporary contact detour This method involves temporarily removing your contacts, enabling Siri, and then restoring them. It might sound a bit involved, but it’s a reliable way to get Siri working without a constant data stream to Apple. Option 1: The archive approach Here’s the simplest way to block Siri from accessing your contact data: Back up your contacts: Open the Contacts app on your Mac. Click on File in the menu bar and select Export > Contacts Archive…. Save this archive file in a safe and easily accessible location. This is your lifeline to getting your contacts back. Remove your contacts: With your archive safely stored, select all your contacts in the Contacts app (Command + A) and then go to Edit > Delete. Confirm the deletion. Don’t worry, they’re in your archive! Enable Siri: Go to System Settings (or System Preferences depending on your macOS version), find the Siri settings, and enable it. You should be able to do this now that your contact list is empty. Restore your contacts: Once Siri is enabled, go back to the Contacts app, click File > Import…, and select the contacts archive file you saved earlier. Your contacts will be back where they belong. Option 2: The Finder folder backup This method is a bit more technical but achieves the same result. Reveal the Contacts database: Open Finder, click Go in the menu bar, and select Go to Folder…. Type in ~/Library/Application Support/AddressBook/ and press Enter. Back up the AddressBook folder: Right-click on the AddressBook folder and choose Compress ‘AddressBook’. This creates a zip file of your contacts data. Store this zip file somewhere safe. Move the original folder: Move the original AddressBook folder to your desktop or another temporary location. Enable Siri: Go to System Settings/Preferences and enable Siri. Restore your contacts: After enabling Siri, delete the newly created AddressBook folder (it will be mostly empty). Then, unzip the AddressBook.zip file you created earlier and move the extracted AddressBook folder back into the ~/Library/Application Support/ directory. You might need to restart your Mac for the changes to apply. The alternative: The dual boot strategy For those who only need Siri occasionally and are comfortable with managing separate system installations, creating a secondary macOS Startup Disk is an option. You could enable Siri on that secondary disk, allowing Apple access to the contacts on that specific system, and then boot into it only when you need Siri. This keeps your primary system’s data separate. However, this is significantly less convenient for everyday use. Striking a balance: Privacy vs. convenience Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to enable Siri and share your contacts is a personal one. These workarounds offer a way to find a balance between using Siri’s functionality and maintaining your privacy. While they might require a few extra steps, they empower you to have more control over your data. Hopefully, future macOS updates will offer a more privacy-conscious way to use Siri, but for now, these methods provide a viable solution. Disclaimer: Always ensure you have a reliable backup of your entire system before making significant changes to system files or data. While these methods are generally safe, it’s always better to err on the side of caution. For more tips on protecting your data and ensuring privacy, call our experts today.
The future is unified: UCaaS and CCaaS convergence for SMB success
The line between employee communication tools and customer service platforms is starting to blur — and that’s a good thing. For small and mid-sized businesses (SMBs), combining UCaaS with CCaaS can lead to stronger teamwork, faster response times, and happier customers. In this article, we’ll explore the main idea behind this merging of tools, what it means for businesses, and how to navigate the change with confidence. What are UCaaS and CCaaS? UCaaS (Unified Communications-as-a-Service) is a cloud-based solution that brings together internal communication tools, including video conferencing, team messaging, file sharing, and voice calls into a single platform. Managed by a third-party provider, it allows teams to collaborate in real time, whether they’re working in the office, remotely, or on the go. CCaaS (Contact Center-as-a-Service) follows a similar model but focuses on customer-facing communication. It powers tools such as customer support phone systems, website live chat, call routing, and automated responses, all delivered via the cloud. Businesses can access advanced contact center capabilities without investing in physical call center hardware, and they can scale effortlessly as customer needs grow. For years, UCaaS and CCaaS operated as separate systems, with one for employees and the other for customers. But now, more businesses, especially SMBs, are seeing the benefits of converging these two systems. Why UCaaS and CCaaS convergence matters Separating employee tools from customer-facing platforms may seem logical, whether for security reasons or the belief that different objectives require different solutions. But on closer examination, there’s a critical overlap: both platforms revolve around communication. And in today’s fast-moving business world, seamless communication is essential. Combining UCaaS and CCaaS creates an integrated communication environment for SMBs, offering several practical advantages: Fewer platforms to juggle: Instead of juggling multiple apps to handle just a single customer query, staff can access everything they need in one place. Better collaboration: When service teams can quickly loop in product, sales, or operations through the same system, issues are resolved faster. More insightful data: Bringing customer interactions and internal communication under one roof makes it easier to identify and understand trends, customer needs, and service gaps. Cost efficiency: Managing one integrated system often costs less than paying for multiple disconnected services. Real-world impact of UCaaS and CCaaS convergence on SMBs For SMBs, combining these two communication systems translate into meaningful operational improvements. Imagine a customer support agent handling a complex issue. With an integrated system, they can instantly message a product manager without leaving their workspace. The result is a faster resolution, a more satisfied customer, and a more efficient workflow. Employee onboarding becomes more straightforward as well. New hires need to learn only one system, cutting down training time and letting them contribute valuable work sooner. Remote and hybrid teams also benefit from this simplified system. Whether someone is working from home, in the office, or on the move, they have consistent access to the same tools, ensuring smooth communication and uninterrupted collaboration. How to start your UCaaS and CCaaS convergence journey For SMBs looking to bring UCaaS and CCaaS together, here are a few tips to get started: Assess your needs: Take a look at how your teams communicate internally and how you interact with customers. Identify pain points and inefficiencies, and take stock of the tools you’re currently using. Look for a unified provider: More providers now offer integrated UCaaS/CCaaS platforms. Choosing a single vendor can simplify setup, support, and billing. Prioritize ease of use: Even the best platform is ineffective if it’s difficult to use. Look for solutions with intuitive interfaces and easy onboarding features. Plan for scalability: Select a solution that can grow with your business. As your customer base and team expand, your communication tools should scale without a hitch to meet those growing demands. Get feedback early: Involve both internal teams and customer-facing staff in the evaluation process. Their insights into daily operations and customer interactions are invaluable when choosing the right platform. The convergence of UCaaS and CCaaS isn’t just another tech trend, it’s a strategic shift that can help SMBs simplify operations, improve service, and stay competitive in a world where great communication is nonnegotiable. Prepare your business to seamlessly converge UCaaS and CCaaS or discover other innovative solutions to streamline your operations. Connect with our experts today!
How your web browser keeps you one step ahead of cyberthreats
When it comes to online safety, HTTPS (Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure) is your first line of defense. In this article, we explore how HTTPS helps secure your connection to websites, prevent data theft, and build trust in the digital world. Whether you’re banking, shopping, or just reading the news, understanding how HTTPS works can help you stay safe every time you go online. What is HTTPS? When you visit a website, you may see a padlock icon in the address bar. This icon indicates that the website is using Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure, which is a secure communications protocol that encrypts all data transmitted between your browser and the website. Without HTTPS, all the data you enter or submit is sent in plain text. This means that anyone who intercepts the traffic between your browser and the website can see everything you do, including the information you enter on the website. HTTPS also verifies the identity of the website you are visiting, protecting you from cyberattacks involving spoofed versions of legitimate websites that are designed to steal your information. Compared to the standard HTTP (Hypertext Transfer Protocol), HTTPS offers a higher level of security, making it essential for online banking, eCommerce, and any other website that handles sensitive data. How do HTTPS certificates work? When you go to a website, your device uses an internet directory (i.e., DNS server) to convert the website’s name into a number (i.e., its IP address). This number is saved in a cache so that your device doesn’t have to look it up again every time you visit the website. However, if your computer gets compromised while using an HTTP connection, an attacker can change the directory so that you are redirected to a malicious website, even if you type in the correct address. Victims are usually redirected to spoofed versions of legitimate websites, where they are tricked into entering their sensitive information, such as their login credentials. To prevent this, internet directories issue HTTPS certificates that transform HTTP into HTTPS. This makes it impossible for anyone to redirect you to a fraudulent website. HTTPS certificates include data about the website, such as its domain name, company name, and location. They also contain a public key for encrypting communication between your browser and the website. More ways to stay safe online Beyond not going to websites that don’t use the HTTPS prefix, here are a few tips for staying safe online, whether you’re just browsing or doing work-related tasks: Think twice before clicking on a website flagged as “unsafe” by your browser. Proceed only if you are sure that no confidential data will be transmitted. Use trusted web browser extensions, such as HTTPS Everywhere, to encrypt your communication, especially when visiting unencrypted websites. Be vigilant. Even if a website has HTTPS, it doesn’t automatically mean it’s safe. For example, amaz0n.com (with the “o” replaced with a 0) could have a certificate, but the misspelling suggests that it’s an untrustworthy site. Cybercriminals use similar spellings of real websites to trick victims into believing they’re on a secure site. While HTTPS is not a silver bullet for online security, it is an essential measure for protecting yourself online. Reach out to us today to learn more about using HTTPS and other cybersecurity best practices.
What to prioritize when choosing computer hardware for your business
With an overwhelming number of options on the market, choosing the right computer hardware for your business can feel like a daunting task. The challenge is finding the perfect balance between cost and reliability without overspending on features you don’t need. To simplify the decision-making process, here are the most important steps to take when selecting computer hardware.Evaluate your current setup Before making any purchases, assess your current setup. Are your existing computers struggling to handle daily operations? Are employees complaining about slow load times, crashes, or outdated software limitations? Identifying weaknesses in your current hardware will clarify what needs replacing, what can be upgraded, and what still serves its purpose. Check for system compatibility A seamless tech ecosystem is critical for business operations. When choosing new hardware, think about how well it integrates with your existing software, peripherals, and networking infrastructure. A top-tier workstation won’t do much good if it can’t run your specialized industry software or connect properly to your company’s printers, servers, or cloud services. Always check compatibility requirements before making a purchase, and whenever possible, opt for hardware that allows flexibility for future integrations. Assess lifespan and warranty No hardware lasts forever, but some machines age better than others. Business computers typically have a useful lifespan of three to five years, but that depends on usage intensity and the quality of components. Investing in hardware with a strong manufacturer’s warranty and extended support options can prevent premature replacements and costly repairs. Also, consider how easy it is to source replacement parts because proprietary or niche components can make repairs expensive and time-consuming. Prioritize speed and performance Processing power (CPU), memory (RAM), and storage type (HDD vs. SSD) all influence how efficiently a machine operates. While more RAM and a faster processor generally improve performance, not all roles require high-end specs. For instance, a data analyst crunching massive spreadsheets needs more computing power than an employee using basic office applications. Invest in performance where it counts to avoid unnecessary expenses on overpowered machines. Consider mobility for remote work With remote and hybrid work becoming the norm, mobility is a key consideration for many businesses. If employees frequently work outside the office, investing in lightweight, high-performance laptops with strong battery life is a smarter move than relying solely on desktops. Docking stations and cloud-based applications can also bridge the gap between in-office and remote setups, making collaboration seamless without sacrificing computing power. Invest in built-in security Modern business computers often come with built-in security features such as biometric authentication, encrypted storage, and hardware-based threat detection. These safeguards can prevent data breaches, unauthorized access, and malware infections. When selecting hardware, prioritize security features that align with your company’s risk profile and compliance requirements. A healthcare organization, for example, might prioritize more built-in security measures since they handle sensitive patient information, while a retail business might prioritize features that protect against payment card fraud. Balance budget and value Spending too little on hardware can lead to sluggish performance, frequent breakdowns, and premature replacements. Overspending on high-end specs you don’t need can drain your IT budget without tangible benefits. Instead of focusing solely on price, consider long-term value. Mid-range hardware with upgrade potential often offers a better return on investment than bargain-bin deals or top-tier machines loaded with bells and whistles. Need help choosing the right hardware for your business? Contact us today to discuss your needs and find the best solutions for your team.
The state of ransomware in 2025: What businesses need to know
Ransomware has become a significant hazard to enterprises globally, with attackers evolving their methods to cause more disruption and demand higher payouts. For business owners and leaders, staying ahead of these threats is critical to protecting their organizations. Below, we’ll explore the current trends in ransomware and the measures businesses can take to bolster their defenses. Ransomware today: A shifting landscape The ransomware threat landscape has never been more dynamic. While joint efforts by law enforcement and security agencies have led to takedowns of major ransomware groups, smaller and more agile gangs have quickly filled the void. One key trend is the emergence of new ransomware strains, often rebranded or derived from leaked and purchased code. These groups are working faster, starting negotiations just hours after stealing data. Most alarmingly, “double extortion” tactics have become the norm. Attackers no longer settle for encrypting company data; instead, they also steal sensitive information, threatening to leak it publicly unless their ransom demands are met. This shift has rendered encryption-only attacks nearly obsolete. Certain sectors have also become primary targets for ransomware groups. Healthcare organizations, educational institutions, and government agencies remain top priorities for cybercriminals due to the sensitive nature of their data and their perceived vulnerability. These industries accounted for nearly half of publicly disclosed attacks in 2024, according to a BlackFog report. For business owners and leaders outside of these sectors, it’s crucial to note that no industry is truly safe. The rise of Ransomware-as-a-Service, or RaaS, has made it easier for more and less skilled cybercriminals to target businesses of all sizes with advanced ransomware. How law enforcement and enterprises are fighting back Despite the growing complexity of ransomware, there is hope on the horizon. Law enforcement agencies and international collaborations have made significant headway in disrupting major ransomware operations. High-profile takedowns, such as Operation Cronos, have resulted in a decline in the overall volume of ransom payments — a promising trend for businesses worldwide. However, the fight against ransomware doesn’t solely rest on external actors. Enterprises are adopting the following proactive measures to safeguard themselves: Implementing zero trust architecture – Zero trust is a security model that assumes that threats exist both outside and inside an organization, requiring strict verification for all users and devices attempting to access resources. Adopting endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions – EDR tools provide real-time visibility into the devices connected to a network, enabling businesses to detect, investigate, and swiftly respond to threats before they can cause significant damage. Conducting regular cybersecurity drills – Simulating an attack can help identify weaknesses, prepare employees, and ensure the organization can respond quickly and efficiently in the event of a real breach. Maintaining immutable backups – If ransomware infiltrates your system, immutable backups provide a secure way to restore operations without paying the ransom. Staying vigilant with patches and updates – Attackers cannot take advantage of outdated technology when you regularly update your software and systems. Leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) tools – Just as attackers are exploring AI-based methods to enhance their operations, businesses can use AI for advanced threat detection and automated responses to preempt attacks. Our security experts can help you build a comprehensive cybersecurity strategy that includes proactive measures and rapid incident response capabilities. Contact us today to learn more about how we can protect your business from ransomware attacks.
VoIP bandwidth requirements and tips for clear business calls
If you’re switching to Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP), you might wonder if your internet bandwidth is up to the task. While VoIP doesn’t use as much data as you might think, it does require a consistent and reliable connection for smooth communication. In this blog, we’ll explain VoIP bandwidth requirements, explore the factors that impact performance, and share tips to help you ensure seamless, high-quality business calls. What is the importance of VoIP bandwidth? Bandwidth refers to how much data your internet connection can handle at any given moment. VoIP systems turn your voice into small packets of data that travel through the internet to the person on the other end of the call. If your connection doesn’t have enough bandwidth, those packets might get delayed, lost, or arrive out of order. That’s when issues such as robotic voices, echoing, or dropped calls occur. For businesses that rely on flawless communication with clients and colleagues, having sufficient bandwidth is a must. How much bandwidth does a VoIP call use? The bandwidth a VoIP call consumes depends primarily on the codec it uses. A codec is the process (either via software or hardware) that compresses and decompresses audio to make it suitable for transmission over the internet. Here’s an easy-to-digest table of the most common codecs and their approximate bandwidth requirements per call: Codec Bandwidth per call (up/down) Recommended usage G.711 80–90 Kbps An uncompressed codec that suits offices that prioritize high call quality, despite its higher bandwidth requirements G.729 30–40 Kbps Relatively compressed yet perfect for businesses managing high call volumes, even with restricted bandwidth G.722 ~50–80 Kbps For businesses seeking HD voice quality surpassing traditional landlines, while balancing call clarity and capacity It’s important to note that these numbers represent one-way data usage. During a call, the same amount is used for both sending and receiving voice data. For example, a single G.711 call requires approximately 170 Kbps in total — 85 Kbps for upload and 85 Kbps for download. What common factors affect bandwidth usage? Bandwidth per call is just the start. Other factors can increase your overall data needs: Number of concurrent calls: More people talking equals more bandwidth needed. Background internet usage: Streaming, large downloads, or video conferencing can compete for bandwidth. Network congestion: Shared networks or peak usage hours can slow things down. Quality of Service (QoS) settings: Without proper network prioritization, VoIP traffic might get delayed or dropped. What’s the minimum bandwidth you need? To determine your ideal bandwidth, use this formula as a starting point: (Bandwidth per call) × (Number of simultaneous calls) = Required bandwidth For instance, if your office handles 10 G.711 VoIP calls simultaneously, then: 87 Kbps (per call up/down) × 10 calls = 870 Kbps (upload) + 870 Kbps (download) = 1.74 Mbps total As a rule of thumb, add 20–30% more bandwidth than your calculation requires to account for fluctuating network demands and other factors. Tips to optimize VoIP bandwidth You don’t need to sign up for the fastest internet plan to enjoy better call quality — just a few smart adjustments can make all the difference. Here’s how to get the best performance out of your current setup: Prioritize VoIP traffic: Adjust your router’s QoS settings to prioritize VoIP data, ensuring it flows smoothly without being interrupted by less important traffic. Upgrade your internet plan: If interruptions are a common issue, it might be time to upgrade to a plan with faster speeds or increased bandwidth. Use wired connections: For a more reliable and interference-free connection, opt for Ethernet cables over Wi-Fi whenever possible. Wired connections offer greater stability and consistency. Monitor your network: Use tools to keep track of network performance, helping you identify traffic spikes or devices causing congestion. VoIP is a powerful and flexible communication solution, but it needs sufficient bandwidth to function optimally. Whether you’re running a small business or just setting up a home VoIP system, understanding your bandwidth needs helps you avoid call quality issues and keep your communication clear. Learn more about VoIP by talking to our experts. Contact us today.
Harnessing the full potential of Microsoft Copilot
Microsoft Copilot and other AI tools are changing how people work, research, and create. But are you using these tools to their full potential? This guide provides tips to get the best results from Copilot, whether you’re summarizing information, drafting content, or creating AI-powered images. Use Copilot to summarize web pages If you’re browsing with Microsoft Edge, Copilot can summarize web pages for you. Just click the Copilot icon and select Create a summary to get a concise version of lengthy articles. This feature is incredibly useful when conducting research, as it helps you quickly grasp the key points without reading through entire pages. For an even more refined summary, you can customize the output by asking Copilot to highlight specific aspects, such as: Key statistics and data points Main arguments and conclusions Counterpoints and alternative perspectives Generate first drafts quickly Struggling with writer’s block? Copilot can help jump-start your writing process by generating structured, high-quality drafts. Whether you need an email, a blog post, a report, or a presentation, simply provide a detailed prompt and specify the desired tone (e.g., formal, casual, or professional) to get the words flowing. To make the most of this feature: Provide clear, specific instructions for better results. Include key points or ideas you want covered. Indicate formatting preferences, such as bullet points or paragraph structure. Additionally, Copilot can suggest alternative phrasing, improve readability, and format text in specific ways, such as outlines, making your writing process smoother and more efficient. Sign in for a personalized experience While you can use Copilot without signing in, logging in with your Microsoft account unlocks additional features, enabling the AI to better tailor responses according to your needs. Benefits of signing in include: Access to past conversations – Pick up where you left off across multiple sessions. Extended voice chat durations – Engage in longer, more detailed discussions. Cross-device synchronization – Seamlessly continue interactions across different platforms. Personalized settings also allow Copilot to refine its responses based on your history, improving accuracy and relevance. Use Think Deeper for in-depth analysis For those needing more than just a basic answer, Copilot’s Think Deeper feature enhances responses by breaking down complex queries into well-structured, insightful explanations. This tool is particularly useful for analyzing multifaceted problems, conducting comparative research, and seeking detailed step-by-step guidance. Enabling Think Deeper provides thorough responses that may include: Pros and cons of different solutions Case studies and real-world examples Expert opinions and industry best practices Create AI-generated images Copilot isn’t limited to text-based assistance; it can generate custom images as well. Whether you need illustrations for presentations, marketing materials, or creative projects, Copilot can generate it for you with a simple prompt and description of the image you need. To get the best results: Provide a detailed description, including color, style, and composition. Refine the generated images by adjusting prompts or requesting variations. Download high-quality visuals for professional use. Microsoft Copilot is a game-changing tool, but unlocking its full potential requires a deep understanding of its features. For expert guidance on getting the most out of Microsoft products and other tech solutions, reach out to our IT specialists today.
Why your cloud costs are skyrocketing — and how to get them under control
Cloud computing offers scalability and flexibility, but many organizations are burdened with unexpectedly high expenses. Read this article to understand the root causes of these inflated costs, and learn effective cloud cost management in the process. Common reasons for cloud overspending Understanding the common causes of overspending on cloud computing can help you optimize your cloud budget. Inefficient digital transformationEmbracing cloud computing without a clear strategy can lead to uncontrolled expenses. It’s essential to have a plan that outlines how cloud services will be deployed, maintained, and expanded to align with organizational goals and budgets. For example, migrating workloads without a clear understanding of requirements or optimizing architectures often results in overprovisioning and resource sprawl. To manage costs, it’s crucial to integrate tools that monitor and manage expenses across cloud, multicloud, and hybrid environments. Unanticipated AI expensesThe integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into cloud services can introduce unforeseen costs. Developers may underestimate the memory and processing demands required to operate AI models, leading to significant increases in resource consumption. Proper planning and optimization are necessary to prevent these costs from escalating. Vendor lock-inVendor lock-in occurs when an organization becomes dependent on a specific cloud provider, making it challenging to switch vendors without incurring significant costs. This could be a problem for your business because service packages between vendors tend to differ, and you may end up locked in and unable to transfer to a more cost-effective package when your operations grow. Lack of regular reassessmentFailing to regularly assess your cloud system is a sure way to get stuck paying for more solutions than you may need. Regularly reassessing cloud services, at least quarterly, helps uncover hidden costs and ensures that your solutions remain cost-effective. Complexity of public cloud offeringsThe vast array of services and pricing models offered by public cloud providers can be overwhelming. Without a clear understanding of their cloud needs, organizations may struggle to select cost-effective options, leading to unnecessary expenses. Rising software and talent costsThe continuous increase in software licensing fees and the high demand for tech talent contribute to escalating cloud expenses. Organizations need to balance these costs while maintaining operational efficiency. How to mitigate cloud costs To control cloud expenses, organizations should adopt the following strategies: Implement cloud cost management tools – Use tools that provide visibility into cloud usage and expenses to identify areas for optimization. Optimize resource allocation – Regularly assess and adjust resource allocations to match actual usage, avoiding overprovisioning. Negotiate with vendors – Engage with cloud service providers to negotiate favorable terms and explore cost-saving opportunities. Invest in training – Equip teams with the skills to manage and optimize cloud resources effectively. Don’t let unexpected cloud expenses drain your budget. With the right strategy, tools, and optimizations, you can reduce waste, improve efficiency, and maximize your cloud investment. Reach out to us today — we’ll help you assess your cloud usage and implement cost-saving measures to stay ahead.