Downturn-Proof Tricks Of the Technology Trade

With the slowdown in IT spending, it's crucial for solution providers to specialize in technologies customers can't do without, or that will cut their operating costs. Implementing security, storage and IP telephony solutions has helped some solution providers grow their businesses even in a down economy.

While these technologies are not completely immune from an economic downturn, companies large and small are still spending money on them. Their reasons vary. For instance, Hutchinson, Kan.-based solution provider Network Management Group has found that an increasing number of financial institutions and health-care organizations need more secure networks to meet new federal regulations. In addition, businesses are moving to protect their networks from the increasing threat of viruses.

As for storage, Lilien Systems, a Mill Valley, Calif.-based integrator, has found that virtually all businesses need it to some degree because they can't afford to lose track of information. The challenge for the solution provider is to find the most cost-effective way for a business to manage its information.

And while IP telephony may not be for every business right now, vendors are steadily coming out with improved equipment to help businesses converge their voice and data networks at a pace that suits their budgets. For Empire Technologies, a Freeport, N.J.-based solution provider, investing in a technology that is steadily growing in popularity shows promising returns.

Part 2: Betting on VoIP

Part 3: Surviving the Economic Downturn

Part 4: Getting Up To Speed