The Hidden Costs of Poor IT Infrastructure (and How to Fix It)

IT infrastructure is more important than you might think. It’s not just the useful tools you use throughout the day; it’s the foundation that supports and manages a business’s operations.

IT infrastructure consists of all the software, hardware, systems, and servers that every business uses. When this infrastructure isn’t set up correctly, it can lead to complications that affect your bottom line.

This article explains the unseen costs of poor IT infrastructure. We’ll also uncover the different signs that may indicate your IT infrastructure needs an upgrade and how you can fix it.

Do you need trusted IT support and infrastructure solutions? Contact our team at Levit8 today. With industry-specific expertise and a passion for innovative solutions, we offer the support you need.

The Costs of Poor IT Infrastructure

Poor IT infrastructure means that your business is at risk, as it is not set up to perform well. There are gaps in your system, poor workflows, and slower outcomes, all of which can contribute to increased costs. Here we’ll explain how.

1. Emergency Repairs

Poorly designed or implemented infrastructure is more likely to break or stall. Outdated software can lead to slower response times, system crashes, and even data losses. Each of which may affect your reputation.

Likewise, these issues require emergency repairs. The cost of these repairs is usually higher than standard IT support. This is especially the case when quick fixes fail to address the root cause of the concern, resulting in additional issues and increased costs.

2. Security Risks

In 2024 alone, 22% of businesses reported a cybersecurity incident, making cybersecurity a common issue. Cyberattacks can damage your systems, disrupt operations, and steal valuable, confidential data.

A single cyberattack can affect the trust consumers have in your business. This can make them hesitate to reach out and potentially even turn away previously loyal customers.

Likewise, poor security can also affect compliance with legal standards for your industry. This can put you at risk of fines and even result in your business being shut down.

3. Frequent Downtime

Poor IT infrastructure is more likely to suffer from regular downtime. If your systems take an extra ten minutes to complete a task a day, that can lead to hours of productivity loss.

Likewise, serious issues can lead to hours or days of downtime while emergency repairs are conducted. This can throw your operations completely off schedule, causing you to miss out on deadlines and opportunities.

4. Poor Scaleability

Poor IT infrastructure is also incredibly difficult to scale. Systems may not be fully updated, or even redundant, making upgrades much harder to implement.

This can make it harder for your business to grow. It can even lead to lost opportunities, as your competition adapts to the changing market much faster.

Signs of Weak IT Infrastructure

Even if you understand the costs, you may not realise your system needs an upgrade. Some signs you can check for to see if you have poor IT infrastructure include:

• Slow systems
• Regular server crashes
• Rising energy costs
• Increased downtime
• Integration issues
• Fragmented or inaccessible data
• Increased employee or customer complaints

Fixing Your IT Infrastructure

Fixing your IT infrastructure can feel overwhelming, especially if you don’t know where to start. Follow these three simple steps to ensure you are on the right track.

1. Assess Your Infrastructure

An IT audit can help you identify your weaknesses and potential risks. By understanding the issue, you’ll be able to target concerns directly and ensure that your IT expenses align with your needs.

2. Invest in Tailored Solutions

Updating your infrastructure does come with some cost, but it is more than worth it. You’ll want to consider upgrading your hardware, software, cybersecurity, and storage solutions.

Likewise, a business continuity plan can help minimise downtime and ensure operations continue to run.

3. Find a Trusted IT Expert

Businesses can often find themselves out of their depth when it comes to IT. IT experts offer valuable advice and guidance if you’re still not sure how to start.

Partnering with them means your systems are monitored, managed, and protected so that you can focus on your business. This support can reduce IT costs, as issues are addressed long before they arise. Likewise, they can keep your systems up-to-date and ready to scale.

Levit8 is Here to Help

Our team at Levit8 is dedicated to keeping your business running smoothly, no matter what it takes. Whether you need a full infrastructure upgrade, tailored solutions, or reliable managed IT support, we’re here to help.

With years of experience, we’ve worked for almost every industry, from finance and legal to healthcare, manufacturing, and more. We’ll work closely with you to fully understand your needs and deliver solutions you can trust.

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