Upgrading

Don’t Let Outdated Tech Slow You Down: Build A Smart IT Refresh Plan

August 25, 2025

Nothing throws off your day like a frozen screen or a sluggish computer. If you run a small business, you’ve probably dealt with outdated tech more than once. Sure, squeezing extra life out of old equipment feels economical, but it often costs more in the long run.

Small businesses lose approximately 98 hours per year, equivalent to 12 working days, due to technology concerns such as slow PCs and outdated laptops.

That’s why having an IT refresh plan matters. It keeps your team running smoothly, avoids unexpected breakdowns, and helps you stay secure.

Regardless of whether you outsource managed IT services or handle them in-house, a solid refresh strategy can save time, stress, and money down the line.

Why having a strategy in place is important

It’s easy to ignore old hardware until something breaks. But when things start falling apart, you have no choice but to look for better parts, deal with downtime, or even explain to your team and clients why things are slow.

The risks of not planning include:

Unexpected downtime: even one broken laptop can stop an entire day of work.
Productivity tanks: Outdated tech runs slower, crashes more often, and just can’t keep up.
Security risks go up: Older systems miss out on key updates, leaving you exposed.
Compliance issues: Especially if your business needs to meet certain tech standards or regulations.
A little planning now can save you from a lot of headaches later.

Four simple strategies for a smart refresh plan

Replace as you go. Instead of replacing everything all at once, swap out equipment gradually. When a machine starts acting up or hits the end of its lifecycle, replace it.

Your IT support provider can help you set a realistic “expiration date” for each device. This approach spreads out the costs and keeps surprises to a minimum.

Schedule regular refresh cycles. If your team relies heavily on tech or you’d rather not wait for things to go wrong, consider refreshing your hardware on a set schedule. It’s a cleaner, more predictable way to keep your tech current and makes budgeting easier.

Watch for compatibility issues. Tech doesn’t exist in a vacuum. Waiting until something breaks or no longer works with your tools, puts your business in panic mode. Have your IT partner do regular checkups to make sure your equipment still plays nice with your software.

Don’t be afraid of leasing. If big upfront costs are holding you back, leasing might be worth a look. Many IT vendors offer lease options with flexible terms. If your company’s refresh cycle is every four years, for example, a four year lease makes sense. It’s a way to get the latest gear without blowing your budget all at once.

What to do next

1. Take inventory: Write down what you’ve got and how old it is.
2. Set your goals: Your refresh plan should support where your business is headed.
3. Talk to your IT services provider: They can help you figure out the best timing, budget, and options.
4. Create a simple schedule: A plan is better than winging it.

Stay ahead by refreshing smart

A good IT refresh strategy protects productivity, improves security, and future-proofs your business. Need help building yours? Contact us today at info@mytechexperts.com, or (734) 457-5000.

Is Your Business Hardware Holding You Back?

April 14, 2025

Your business hardware – your computers, printers, and other tech that keeps your day running smoothly – is easy to take for granted.

When they’re working fine, you don’t give them much thought. But how often should you stop to think about whether they’re performing at their best?

The truth is, properly maintaining your hardware is crucial for your business’s success.

Just like a car needs regular servicing to keep running smoothly, your tech requires attention too. Dust can build up inside computers, slowing them down or even causing overheating.

And those software updates that seem like a hassle are often designed to keep your devices working efficiently and securely. If your hardware isn’t looked after, its performance will suffer, costing you time and money.

Sometimes, though, maintenance and repairs aren’t enough.

If your hardware is old or outdated, it could be holding your business back. For example, older computers often struggle to run modern software, leading to frustrating delays and crashes. Worse still, outdated hardware can be a security risk as it may not be compatible with the latest updates designed to protect you from cyber threats.

When you’re facing a decision between repairing or replacing hardware, consider the bigger picture. Repairs might seem cheaper upfront, but if your device is slowing down productivity or constantly breaking, it could end up costing more in the long term.

Investing in new equipment might feel like a big expense, but it can save you money and stress down the line – and give your business a competitive edge.

Outdated hardware doesn’t just affect performance; it can also impact your team’s morale and your customers’ experience. No one enjoys battling with slow computers or unreliable printers. Keeping your tech up to date makes sure everything runs smoothly, keeping your team happy and your business efficient. You’ll see gains in customer service, too.

So, take a moment to think about your hardware. Is it running smoothly, or is it time for an upgrade? The right investment now can save you headaches – and money.

Need New Hardware? Here’s Where To Start

December 17, 2024

When your team’s computers or internet start lagging, it’s often a sign your hardware needs an upgrade. But with so many tech options, you may want some help knowing where to start. Upgrading hardware can feel like a daunting task, but with a bit of guidance, small businesses can make informed choices that improve efficiency, security, and productivity.

Understanding the signs you need an upgrade

Computers and other tech devices aren’t meant to last forever. If your employees frequently complain about slow load times, crashing applications, or connectivity issues, it’s a clear indication that your hardware might not be keeping up. Older equipment may also struggle to support the latest software updates, leaving your business vulnerable to cyber threats or inefficiencies.

Beyond performance issues, consider whether your current hardware aligns with your business needs. For example, if your team is transitioning to hybrid or remote work, laptops with better portability and extended battery life may be necessary.

Similarly, businesses managing large files or using graphics-intensive software should invest in systems with robust processing power and high-resolution displays.

Choosing the right equipment

When selecting new hardware, focus on what makes sense for your business operations. For many small businesses, reliability and scalability are the top priorities. Here are a few key items to consider:

Desktops and Laptops: Decide whether you need desktops for stationary workstations or laptops for mobility. For general office tasks, mid-range models with solid-state drives (SSDs), at least 8GB of RAM, and Intel Core i5 or AMD Ryzen 5 processors are often sufficient.

Networking Equipment: Outdated routers and switches can bottleneck your internet speeds, no matter how fast your ISP claims to be. Upgrading to Wi-Fi 6 routers or mesh networking systems can significantly improve connectivity and range, especially in larger offices.

Monitors and Accessories: Dual monitors are increasingly standard for maximizing productivity. Additionally, ergonomic keyboards, mice, and adjustable monitor stands can reduce strain and improve comfort for your team, especially for staff who work at a computer all day.

Servers and Storage: If your business handles sensitive data or large volumes of information, upgrading to a dedicated server or Network Attached Storage (NAS) device can provide better security and accessibility.

Printers and Scanners: While many offices are moving toward paperless workflows, reliable printers and scanners are still essential for certain industries. Look for multi-function devices with wireless connectivity for added convenience.

Balancing budget and long-term value

Hardware upgrades are an investment, so it’s important to strike a balance between cost and value. Cutting corners to save a few dollars upfront can lead to higher expenses in the long run if equipment fails prematurely or doesn’t meet your needs.

Consider working with a Managed Service Provider (MSP) to identify cost-effective options tailored to your business. MSPs often have access to bulk purchasing discounts and can recommend hardware that integrates seamlessly with your existing systems. They can also assist with setup, ensuring minimal disruption to your workflow.

The environmental impact

Finally, don’t overlook the opportunity to dispose of old equipment responsibly. Many manufacturers and local organizations offer recycling programs that ensure outdated hardware is disposed of in an environmentally friendly manner. Some programs even offer trade-in credits to help offset the cost of new purchases.

Upgrading your computer hardware doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By identifying your team’s needs, prioritizing reliable and scalable options, and partnering with experts when needed, you can ensure your business stays competitive and efficient. Investing in the right tools today can save you time, money, and headaches down the road—and your team will thank you for it.

Planning Digital Transformation? Don’t Forget Your Team

September 22, 2023

Have you heard of the term “digital transformation?” It’s where you introduce new technology across every part of your business, to help you sell more, deliver better customer service and be more efficient/profitable.

That word ‘transformation’ sounds impressive, doesn’t it? It’s like your business is a caterpillar, ready to emerge from its cocoon as a dazzling, tech-savvy butterfly.

But hold on a minute, let’s not forget about the most important part of this metamorphosis – your people.

Yes, you read that right. It’s not technology that should be at the heart of any digital transformation… it’s people.

Businesses often make the mistake of getting caught up in the whirlwind of “cool new tech” and forget about the human element. How many times have you heard of a company rolling out a major new software system, only for their employees to struggle with the change?

The truth is, the success of any digital transformation hinges on your team’s buy-in. You can have the most cutting-edge technology in the world, but if your people hate using it, it’s going to fail.

So how do we put people first in digital transformation? It starts with communication. Your team needs to understand why change is happening and how it will benefit them. This isn’t just a one-time announcement, but an ongoing two-way conversation.

Next, you need champions. These are individuals at all levels of the business who are enthusiastic about the change and can help others get on board. Enthusiasm is contagious!

And finally, you need to break down silos. The digital world thrives on collaboration, and your business should too. If departments are working in isolation, you’re not harnessing the full potential of your team or your technology.

Let’s not forget about the role of AI in all this. Generative AI systems, such as ChatGPT, have been making waves in the media, highlighting the importance of the human element in the digital transformation debate. After all, technology should serve people, not the other way around.

The pace of technological advancement is dizzying, no doubt about that. But amidst all the change, one thing remains constant – the importance of putting people, processes and culture at the center of your digital transformation.

If we can help you with any kind of technology project, just give us a call.

Boost Your Team’s Engagement With Better Tech

July 5, 2023

Thomas Fox is president of Tech Experts, southeast Michigan’s leading small business computer support company.

The stresses and pressures of the cost of living crisis are hitting many people hard. That makes employee engagement more of a challenge than ever.

As a business, you might be finding it hard yourself. It may not be possible to offer salary rises that keep pace with inflation.

And at the same time, you might be asking more of your people or making changes to the workplace that are hard for some to adjust to.

The last thing you want is to lose good people just when you need everyone firing on all cylinders.

That’s why some of the most effective engagement strategies right now involve relieving the stress and tedium of repetitive tasks and removing workplace frustration – with the added benefit that you become more efficient in the process. [Read more…] about Boost Your Team’s Engagement With Better Tech

What Are The Best Ways To Give An Older PC New Life?

June 27, 2022

Purchasing a new computer is a big investment. Many small businesses and home PC owners end up struggling with older systems because they want to get as many years out of them as possible.

Have you found yourself banging on your keyboard in frustration? Have you tried every tip and trick you found online, only to still struggle with a slow PC?

There are some promising upgrades you can do that will cost much less than the price of a new computer, while making your PC feel like new again. Here are some of the options you can try to improve the performance of an older computer.

Upgrade to a solid state hard drive (SSD)

Prices for solid-state drives have come down quite a bit in the past few years, making them an affordable upgrade that can breathe life back into an older PC that might be slowing down.

Unlike hard disk drives (HDDs), SSDs do not have any moving parts and use a flash memory that allows for a quicker response time. You can improve your time to boot and your experience when searching files, opening applications, and other activities.

Some of the advantages of upgrading your computer’s hard drive to SSD include:

SSD read/write speeds up to 2500 MB/second compared to HDD at up to 200 MB/second
SSD access time of 0.1ms as compared to HDD at 5.5-8.0ms
SSDs use between 2-5 watts of energy compared to HDD at 6-15 watts

Increase the memory

One upgrade that is very low-cost and can mean a significant increase in performance is a memory upgrade. If your PC was one of the cheaper ones that only had 4GB of RAM when you bought it, you likely have trouble opening too many tabs in your browser or using any graphics-heavy program.

Upgrading your RAM, if your PC has available memory slots, to 8GB or 12GB can make it seem like you have an entirely new computer due to the big increase in speed.

Upgrade the graphics card

If you play computer games or work in any type of video, imaging, or 3D software, an outdated graphics card can ruin your experience.

Instead of replacing your entire computer, just upgrading the graphics card to a more robust model can improve your PC’s performance and give you several more useful years from it.

Replace your PCs cooling system

Heat is an enemy of your computer’s internal parts. If your cooling system is getting worn out and not working the way it should be, then excess heat can be building up inside your device.

When this happens things can get strange, with programs crashing or your system rebooting on its own.

If you suspect excess heat may be an issue, have your computer’s fan and cooling system checked out to see if it needs replacing.

Connect an external monitor to a laptop

If you’re working on a laptop and having a hard time multi-tasking due to limited screen real estate, consider getting an external monitor rather than replacing your entire PC.

Monitors are just a fraction of the cost of computers and having a screen twice the size of the one on your laptop can make all the difference in the world and improve productivity due to the additional screen space.

Replace your keyboard

Older keyboards can stick, lose keys, and have the writing rubbed off the keys, making it more difficult to tell a “prt screen” from a “delete” button. If the performance of your PC is hampered by a frustrating keyboard, an upgrade can be a very inexpensive way to improve your equipment.

Get an external hard drive

Computers can slow down and be more difficult to use when the hard drive fills up with data. Over the years, files build up, and many users never take the time to go through and delete those that are unnecessary.

Buying an external hard drive can allow you to offload files that may be slowing you down while still keeping them easily accessible.

Another benefit of an external hard drive is that it’s portable and can easily be carried between home and work and used in both places.

Get a professional PC tune-up

Those free PC cleaner tools you find online aren’t going to give you the type of tune-up that a professional IT provider can give.

We will go through things like the Windows Registry, duplicate system files, internal errors, and more to clean up your system and remove all the “junk” that has built up over the years.

We can also do a maintenance check for things like failing parts, and provide expert guidance on your most impactful upgrade options.

Don’t struggle with an older PC! We can help you with cost-effective upgrade options that will fit your system and budget perfectly.

How Do You Know When Your Systems Are Due For An Upgrade?

February 26, 2021

Some problems are difficult to spot. They bubble under the surface without getting noticed until it’s too late.

Other problems hit you straight in the face, normally at the worst possible time.

When it comes to your business’s IT, you need to keep an eye out for each of these, as things can get nasty if you don’t stay on top of things.

Keeping your IT updated is a good start, but it isn’t enough on its own. How do you know what to look out for? Let’s look at some of the main culprits.

The slow creepers
Slow computers are a big one, and they’re quite tricky to spot because they gradually slow down over time.

This means that people using them gradually adjust to degrading levels of performance without necessarily being aware that’s happening.

The same is true for software. As staff get used to using slow and buggy tools, it gets normalized and the IT gremlins become accepted as part of their daily life.

It’s always worth fixing slow devices and processes. Speeding them up will let your staff be more productive. And give morale a boost too.

Out of date systems
Another thing that can be difficult to spot is when warranties run out.

On top of official warranties, IT systems also have a separate lifespan for how long vendors will continue to offer updates. Pushing this to the edge can significantly impact features, compatibility, as well as security.

Your customers don’t have much patience for slow or clunky processes.

It can be difficult to measure how much business you lose on the back of this, so frequently auditing your systems is key to avoiding missed opportunities.

Too old to scale
If your IT systems aren’t scalable, there’s a real risk that your business will need to start turning down work because you’re not able to handle swings in demand.

It’s worth bearing in mind that there’s a far greater chance of experiencing big changes in consumer behavior in 2021, both during and in the aftermath of this pandemic.

Also, if you’re running out-of-date IT systems, you’re living with the risk that you won’t be able to quickly adopt new ways of working, as technology changes your industry.

What can you do?
An important first step is to have an IT strategy in place that acts as a foundation for your business.

Instead of reacting to problems as they come up, an IT strategy will help you plan for future scenarios. As well as acting as a solid foundation to help your business make the best possible decisions about the future.

A good IT strategy creates a technology roadmap for getting your business up to speed and keeping it there.

Tax Benefits You Should Reap Before The Year Ends

December 20, 2019

There are important tax benefits you can only gain by acting before December runs out. Preparing for taxes at the end of the year also puts you ahead of the game, eliminating the last-minute scramble to decipher receipts and new forms, so you can be calm and collected when tax season actually hits.

Perhaps the most important tax benefit small businesses should be aware of is that purchases like IT hardware or computer software that is purchased off the shelf are tax-deductible. Such capital purchases, however, must be dealt with before the new year, or they can no longer be used on your tax return. New special provisions dictate the cost of such equipment must be deducted within the year they were put into service, so you can’t afford to wait until the fiscal year ends and miss the narrow window for this tax benefit opportunity.

Small businesses should also be aware that many tax benefits are dependent on whether your activities are profitable or not. This is because the amount you can deduct for technological purchases changes according to your business’ total taxable income.

Be sure to reference Section 179 rules if you are showing a profit and Section 168 rules if you are in the red. You may even choose to consider if it is in your business’ best interest to be profitable at all, and adjust your inner workings to reflect your best tax advantage.

When making deductions for tech hardware and software purchased this year, make sure your record keeping is first rate. Keep all paper¬work that identifies the equipment, receipt for purchase, and anything that can point to when you actually put the equipment into service.

If necessary, you can then provide copies of that paperwork to the tax agency in the event that there is a question about your deduction. Before filing, if there is any doubt about whether a particular purchase is eligible for a tax deduction, consult with your tax adviser to be sure the necessary points have been met.

Signs Your PC Needs A Tune-Up (Or Replaced!)

June 27, 2019

Jason Cooley is Support Services Manager for Tech Experts.

One of the most frustrating things a person can experience in the office is a slow computer system.

As modern systems get quicker and Internet speeds continue to soar, we really notice when performance seems off.

Watching a video online 10 years ago versus today is a world of difference. Take it back 15 years, and it’s like two different universes.

Yet, we are so used to these speeds and increases in performance that we often assume that there’s something “wrong” with our computer or Internet connection when it slows down. Sure, this can be the case, but how can you tell?

First, you really need to isolate whether your computer system is slow or if your Internet is causing the problems. This is easier than you would expect.

Try loading a webpage. See if there is a delay in your keyboard input. Look for spinning wheels. These are indicative of system processing actions. You can try opening a few documents or pictures stored on your computer.

If there is no delay but webpages load slower than normal, you likely are having Internet speed issues.

Let’s assume that your Internet is fine. Speed is good, connection is strong. How can we tell if there is something wrong that needs fixed or if it’s just a temporary issue?

Let’s talk about age. The average usable life of a PC is around five years, give a take a year or two based on how good the system specs were at the time of purchase.

For instance, a laptop at a chain retail store might be a great price, but if you buy outdated products to start with, you will definitely have a harder time reaching the target goal of five years of use out of your computer. You can sometimes find a bargain, but a lot of times, you really get what you pay for.

Speaking of getting what you pay for, you may not be an expert, but remember that, while features like touchscreens are nice, they’re not a great help when your system resources are maxed out.

A touchscreen in a laptop is basically a tradeoff for two other specs when it comes to cost. Basically, if you had two identically priced laptops, the one with a touchscreen would have less RAM and a slower CPU, for instance.

Other things can let you know if there is more to it than needing a new PC. Is your lag recent and sudden? How secure are you? Is your operating system up to date?

A recent virus could quickly impact your system. While they don’t always work like this, a quick change in performance is typically failing hardware or an infection.

The best thing to do is to rule out the virus first. Always better to be safe. If you aren’t sure about how to thoroughly check for and remove virus infections, look for someone who can help.

So what if you still aren’t sure? If you are on the cusp of having your computer for four or five years, it might be time to make the call to replace it.

If there is a chance it’s the CPU failing and it’s close in the age range, replace it.

It is a calculated decision, but don’t let trying to save a few bucks for a few weeks longer cause you endless frustration. It may just be time to say goodbye.