Say you have a financial consulting corporation that has four satellite offices in the US and employs 300 fulltime employees and 20 of those travel 2 to 4 days a week. These 20 employees do not have access to email or other company programs while they are traveling. The corporations wants to improve its website to provide clients with access to their portfolio 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. We also want to supply technology equipment to employees who travel on a regular basis to keep them in the loop. What IT recommendations should be made for this corporation?
Whoa!
This question is way outdated and shouldn't even be included in a class taught today.
Your scenario is not probable today. All employees have access to email and company programs all of the time.
What if the company has a centralized computer system but needs to outfit its employees with computers. Would it be safe to say that they should purchase laptop for all their traveling employees with a wireless card to allow them access to company programs and email while travels. While I agree this question is totally outdated I doubt that if that was my answer that I would get full credit. :O)
To improve the website and meet the technology needs of your financial consulting corporation, the following IT recommendations can be made:
1. Cloud-Based Portfolio Access: Implement a cloud-based solution that allows clients to access their portfolio anytime, anywhere. This can involve creating a secure client portal on your website where clients can log in and view their portfolio information, investment performance, reports, and other relevant details.
2. Mobile App Development: Consider developing a mobile application that clients can download on their smartphones or tablets. This app should provide convenient and secure access to their portfolio, along with additional features like alerts, notifications, and real-time updates. This will enhance accessibility and allow clients to stay connected on the go.
3. Security Measures: Since client data and financial information are involved, it is crucial to ensure robust security measures. Implement encryption protocols, secure socket layer (SSL) certificates, two-factor authentication, and regular security audits to protect client data and ensure privacy.
4. Collaboration Tools: Provide technology equipment to employees who travel frequently to keep them connected and productive. This can include laptops, smartphones, or tablets with pre-configured company applications and secure VPN access. Collaboration tools like video conferencing software, instant messaging systems, and file-sharing platforms should also be made available.
5. Mobile Device Management: Implement a Mobile Device Management (MDM) solution to securely manage and monitor the technology equipment issued to traveling employees. MDM allows for remote device tracking, data wiping in case of loss or theft, application management, and policy enforcement to maintain control and security.
6. Continuous IT Support: Ensure that dedicated IT support is available for all employees. This can be in the form of an internal IT team or outsourced services. Reliable support will help troubleshoot technical issues, provide guidance, and keep technology systems running smoothly.
7. Regular Training: Conduct regular training sessions to educate employees on the use of company technology, security best practices, and the new client portfolio access features. This will help ensure employees are equipped with the necessary knowledge to utilize the implemented IT solutions effectively.
By following these recommendations, your financial consulting corporation can enhance client satisfaction, increase accessibility, streamline communication and collaboration among employees, and protect sensitive data.