Wareham MA, Managed Service Provider

Unique Technology Needs In Healthcare IT

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Technology plays an increasingly crucial role in delivering efficient, effective, and secure patient care. From electronic health records (EHR) systems to telemedicine platforms, healthcare organizations rely on a myriad of technological solutions to streamline operations and enhance patient outcomes. However, the healthcare sector also presents unique technological challenges and requirements that demand specialized expertise and support. In this blog, we’ll explore the distinctive technological needs of healthcare IT and how Managed Service Providers (MSPs) can offer tailored solutions to address them.

The Complexity of Healthcare IT

Healthcare IT encompasses a broad spectrum of systems and applications designed to support clinical workflows, manage patient data, and ensure compliance with regulatory requirements. Unlike other industries, healthcare IT must adhere to stringent privacy and security standards, such as the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), to protect sensitive patient information. Additionally, healthcare organizations must navigate interoperability challenges to seamlessly exchange data across disparate systems and facilitate coordinated care.

Unique Technological Needs in Healthcare

Data Security and Compliance: Protecting patient data is paramount in healthcare IT. Providers must implement robust security measures, such as encryption, access controls, and regular audits, to safeguard sensitive information and maintain compliance with HIPAA regulations.

Integration: Healthcare IT environments often comprise various systems and applications from different vendors. Providers must ensure seamless interoperability and integration between these systems to facilitate data exchange and interoperable care delivery.

EHR Implementation and Optimization: Electronic Health Records (EHR) systems are the backbone of modern healthcare IT. MSPs play a critical role in the implementation, customization, and optimization of EHR systems to meet the unique needs of healthcare organizations and enhance clinical workflows.

Telemedicine and Remote Patient Monitoring: The adoption of telemedicine and remote patient monitoring solutions has surged in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. MSPs can assist healthcare organizations in deploying and managing these technologies to facilitate virtual care delivery and improve patient access to services.

Disaster Recovery and Business Continuity: Healthcare organizations cannot afford downtime or data loss, as it can have life-threatening consequences for patients. MSPs can develop robust disaster recovery and business continuity plans to ensure uninterrupted access to critical systems and data in the event of a cyberattack or natural disaster.

Managed Detection and Response (MDR): Proactive threat detection and response are essential components of healthcare IT security. MSPs can provide Managed Detection and Response (MDR) services to continuously monitor networks, identify potential security threats, and respond swiftly to mitigate risks.

How MSPs Can Help

Managed Service Providers specializing in healthcare IT offer a range of tailored solutions to address these unique technological needs:

Comprehensive Security Services: MSPs provide cybersecurity assessments, risk management, and incident response services to protect patient data and ensure compliance with HIPAA regulations.

EHR Implementation and Support: MSPs offer expertise in deploying, customizing, and optimizing EHR systems to enhance clinical efficiency and improve patient care quality.

Interoperability Solutions: MSPs develop interoperability frameworks and integration strategies to facilitate seamless data exchange between disparate systems and promote care coordination.

Telemedicine and Remote Monitoring: MSPs assist healthcare organizations in implementing telemedicine platforms and remote monitoring solutions, enabling virtual care delivery and remote patient management.

Disaster Recovery and Business Continuity Planning: MSPs design and implement robust disaster recovery plans, backup solutions, and failover mechanisms to ensure continuity of operations in the face of unforeseen disruptions.

24/7 Monitoring and Response: MSPs offer around-the-clock monitoring and incident response services to detect and mitigate security threats, minimizing the risk of data breaches and downtime.

In the dynamic and highly regulated landscape of healthcare IT, Managed Service Providers like SecureWon play a vital role in addressing the unique technological needs of healthcare organizations. By offering specialized expertise, tailored solutions, and proactive support, MSPs empower healthcare organizations to leverage technology effectively, enhance patient care delivery, and ensure compliance with regulatory requirements. As healthcare continues to evolve, partnering with a trusted MSP can provide healthcare organizations with the technological foundation they need to thrive in an increasingly digital world.

 

SecureWon at its core is a national technology services company. What separates us from other technology service providers is our commitment to providing superior documentation and accurate reporting of your organization’s security posture. This attention to detail and quality of our services is what drives us. Contact us today for a free assessment of your technology infrastructure.

Wareham MA, Managed Service Provider

How to Benefit from an Outsourced Virtual CTO

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In today’s modern business, having a robust technological infrastructure is paramount for success. However, for many small to medium-sized businesses, the cost and complexity of maintaining an in-house Chief Technology Officer (CTO) can be prohibitive. Enter the Outsourced Virtual CTO (vCTO) – a strategic partner who can provide expert guidance and leadership in navigating the complexities of technology. In this blog post, we’ll explore how businesses can harness the benefits of an vCTO to drive growth, innovation, and efficiency.

Understanding the Role of a Virtual CTO

A vCTO serves as a trusted advisor, offering strategic insights and direction on technology-related matters without the commitment and expense of a full-time executive. They bring a wealth of experience and expertise to the table, helping businesses align their technology initiatives with their overall objectives.

Cost-Effectiveness

One of the most significant advantages of outsourcing a vCTO is cost-effectiveness. Instead of bearing the financial burden of a full-time CTO, businesses can access top-tier talent on a flexible basis. This allows for significant cost savings without compromising on quality or expertise.

Strategic Guidance

A vCTO plays a pivotal role in shaping the technological roadmap of a business. By understanding the company’s goals and challenges, they can develop tailored strategies to leverage technology for maximum impact. Whether it’s implementing new systems, optimizing existing processes, or mitigating cybersecurity risks, their strategic guidance can drive innovation and efficiency across the organization.

Access to Specialized Knowledge

Technology is a vast and ever-evolving field, encompassing various disciplines and specialties. With an Outsourced vCTO, businesses gain access to a diverse pool of expertise that may not be available in-house. Whether it’s cloud computing, data analytics, or emerging technologies like artificial intelligence, they can tap into specialized knowledge to stay ahead of the curve.

Flexibility and Scalability

In today’s fast-paced business environment, agility is key to staying competitive. Outsourcing a vCTO provides businesses with the flexibility to scale their technology resources up or down as needed. Whether it’s scaling up during periods of growth or streamlining operations during lean times, businesses can adapt more efficiently to changing market conditions.

Partnering with an Outsourced vCTO can be a game-changer for businesses looking to thrive in the digital age. From cost-effectiveness and strategic guidance to access to specialized knowledge and flexibility, the benefits are undeniable. By harnessing the expertise of a Virtual CTO, businesses can unlock new opportunities, drive innovation, and achieve sustainable growth in an increasingly technology-driven world.

 

SecureWon at its core is a national technology services company. What separates us from other technology service providers is our commitment to providing superior documentation and accurate reporting of your organization’s security posture. This attention to detail and quality of our services is what drives us. Contact us today for a free assessment of your technology infrastructure.

Managed Service Provider, Wareham MA

Your Guide to Healthcare IT Managed Services

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In the ever-evolving landscape of healthcare, technology plays a pivotal role in ensuring efficient and effective delivery of services. Healthcare IT managed services have emerged as a critical component for healthcare organizations looking to streamline their IT infrastructure, enhance security, and improve overall operational efficiency. In this guide, we’ll delve into the world of healthcare IT managed services, exploring what they entail and why they are essential for the success of modern healthcare practices, and why you should look for a technology partner with qualities like SecureWon.

Healthcare IT managed services encompass a range of solutions designed to support and optimize the technology infrastructure within healthcare organizations. These services are tailored to meet the unique challenges and requirements of the healthcare industry, where data security, compliance, and seamless operations are paramount.

Key Components of Healthcare IT Managed Services

Data Security and Compliance:

  • Explore how managed services ensure the highest standards of data security, helping healthcare organizations adhere to strict compliance regulations such as HIPAA.
  • Discuss the importance of safeguarding patient information and the role of managed services in preventing data breaches.

Infrastructure Management:

  • Examine how healthcare IT managed services handle the management and maintenance of IT infrastructure, including servers, networks, and storage systems.
  • Highlight the benefits of outsourcing infrastructure management, allowing healthcare professionals to focus on patient care rather than IT maintenance.

24/7 Monitoring and Support:

  • Discuss the significance of continuous monitoring and round-the-clock support in ensuring the reliability and availability of critical healthcare systems.
  • Showcase how proactive monitoring can identify and address potential issues before they impact operations.

Telehealth and Remote Support:

  • Explore how healthcare IT managed services facilitate the implementation and maintenance of telehealth solutions, enabling remote patient care.
  • Highlight the role of remote support in troubleshooting IT issues promptly, regardless of the location of healthcare professionals.

Scalability and Flexibility:

  • Discuss how managed services provide scalable solutions that can adapt to the evolving needs and growth of healthcare organizations.
  • Illustrate scenarios where scalability and flexibility become crucial for accommodating changes in patient volume and technological advancements.

As healthcare continues to advance, leveraging technology through IT managed services has become imperative for organizations aiming to deliver top-notch patient care while ensuring data security and compliance. This guide serves as a comprehensive overview of healthcare IT managed services, emphasizing their role in transforming the IT landscape of healthcare and ultimately contributing to better patient outcomes. To stay at the forefront of the healthcare industry, consider integrating robust IT managed services into your organization’s strategy, paving the way for a more efficient and secure healthcare ecosystem.

SecureWon at its core is a national technology services company. What separates us from other technology service providers is our commitment to providing superior documentation and accurate reporting of your organization’s security posture. This attention to detail and quality of our services is what drives us. Contact us today for a free assessment of your technology infrastructure.

Newport RI, Managed Service Provider

New Year, New IT Strategy: Planning for Success in 2024

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As we step into a new year, the significance of reassessing and redefining IT strategies cannot be overstated. The landscape of technology is ever evolving, and businesses must stay agile and proactive to harness the power of innovation effectively. For Managed Service Providers (MSPs), guiding clients through this dynamic terrain is not just a service but a commitment to ensuring sustained growth and resilience in the digital realm.

The Importance of Reviewing and Updating IT Strategies

The start of a new year is an opportune moment for businesses to reflect on their IT infrastructure and strategies. Here are several compelling reasons why this exercise is crucial:

Adaptability in a Dynamic Environment

Technology is in a constant state of flux. What worked last year may not necessarily yield the same results in the coming months. By revisiting and updating IT strategies, businesses can ensure that they remain adaptable and responsive to emerging trends and challenges.

Optimization of Resources

Evaluating existing IT strategies allows companies to identify redundancies, inefficiencies, or outdated systems. By optimizing resources, they can allocate budgets more effectively, investing in areas that promise greater returns and improved operational efficiency.

Security and Compliance

Cyber threats continue to evolve, emphasizing the importance of robust security measures. Revisiting IT strategies enables companies to reinforce their security protocols and ensure compliance with the latest regulations, safeguarding sensitive data and mitigating risks.

Innovation and Competitive Edge

Technology advancements offer opportunities for innovation. By reassessing IT strategies, businesses can identify innovative technologies that can provide a competitive edge, enhance customer experiences, and streamline operations.

Key Trends and Technologies for 2024

As MSPs guide their clients toward a successful IT strategy for 2024, several key trends and technologies merit attention:

Hybrid Workforce Enablement

The hybrid work model is here to stay. MSPs must focus on solutions that support seamless collaboration, secure remote access, and efficient communication tools to empower a distributed workforce.

Cybersecurity Enhancements

Cyber threats are becoming more sophisticated. MSPs need to emphasize advanced cybersecurity measures, including zero-trust frameworks, AI-driven threat detection, and comprehensive employee training to mitigate risks effectively.

Cloud Optimization and Migration

Optimizing cloud infrastructure and strategically migrating workloads can enhance scalability, flexibility, and cost-effectiveness. MSPs should assist clients in leveraging the full potential of cloud services tailored to their specific needs.

AI and Automation

Artificial Intelligence (AI) and automation continue to revolutionize industries. Implementing AI-driven solutions and automation tools can optimize processes, improve decision-making, and drive efficiency across various business functions.

Edge Computing

The proliferation of Internet of Things (IoT) devices necessitates efficient data processing closer to the source. Edge computing enables faster data processing, reducing latency and enhancing real-time insights, making it a crucial consideration for businesses.

In conclusion, as we embark on the journey into 2024, MSPs play a pivotal role in guiding businesses towards robust and adaptable IT strategies. The synergy between technological advancements and strategic planning will pave the way for businesses to thrive in an ever-evolving digital landscape. Embracing these trends and technologies will not only future-proof operations but also position companies for sustained growth and success in the year ahead.

SecureWon at its core is a national technology services company. What separates us from other technology service providers is our commitment to providing superior documentation and accurate reporting of your organization’s security posture. This attention to detail and quality of our services is what drives us. Contact us today for a free assessment of your technology infrastructure.

Managed Service Provider, Newport RI

End of Year Message

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As 2023 draws to a close, we find ourselves reflecting on the milestones achieved and the valuable partnerships that have enriched our journey. It has been an incredible year filled with growth, learning, and exciting developments here at SecureWon, and we want to extend our heartfelt gratitude to our clients for being an integral part of this journey.

We were fortunate enough to add two esteemed additions to our leadership team this year. Doug Fodeman joins us as our new Security Awareness Director, bringing a wealth of experience and expertise to enhance our cybersecurity initiatives. His insights and commitment to bolstering our security efforts will further fortify our commitment to safeguarding your data and systems.

Additionally, we proudly welcomed Dolly Ryan as our Director of Education. Dolly’s passion for education and her innovative vision aligns perfectly with our goals to empower our clients with knowledge. Her leadership will drive our educational initiatives to new heights, ensuring our clients stay informed and equipped in this ever-evolving technological landscape.

This year, we continued our commitment to knowledge sharing and collaboration. We hosted our highly successful “Security In Education Lunch N’ Learn” session, designed to equip educators with essential tools and insights to navigate the digital world securely. The enthusiastic participation and positive feedback reaffirmed our dedication to empowering our community through education.

Moreover, we were honored to present at the prestigious MassCue Conference, where Doug Fodeman shared industry insights and best practices. It was an incredible opportunity to connect with like-minded professionals and contribute to the ongoing dialogue about technological advancements in our field.

As we gaze towards the horizon of the new year, we are excited to announce our strategic focus on expanding our Healthcare Division. With healthcare technology evolving rapidly, we are committed to leveraging our expertise to support healthcare providers in meeting their technological needs securely and efficiently. Stay tuned for more updates and innovative solutions tailored specifically for the healthcare industry.

In closing, we extend our sincere thanks for your continued trust and collaboration. Your partnership has been instrumental in our growth and success. As we step into the new year, our commitment to providing exceptional service, innovative solutions, and unwavering support remains steadfast.

SecureWon at its core is a national technology services company. What separates us from other technology service providers is our commitment to providing superior documentation and accurate reporting of your organization’s security posture. This attention to detail and quality of our services is what drives us. Contact us today for a free assessment of your technology infrastructure.

Newport RI, Managed Service Provider

Holiday Cybersecurity Scams

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The holiday season is a time for celebration, family, and, unfortunately, an increase in cybersecurity threats. As businesses and individuals gear up for festive gatherings and gift-giving, cybercriminals are busy scheming to take advantage of the holiday spirit. This blog post will shed light on some of the most common holiday cybersecurity scams and offer tips on how to protect your business from falling victim to these threats.

Phishing Scams

Phishing scams are a year-round concern, but they tend to peak during the holiday season. Cybercriminals send emails or messages impersonating reputable organizations or even friends and family, with the aim of tricking recipients into revealing sensitive information or clicking on malicious links. These messages may promise amazing deals, delivery notifications, or charity donations, preying on the generosity and eagerness of holiday shoppers.

Protect Your Business:

  • Train your employees to recognize phishing emails and messages.
  • Always verify the legitimacy of unexpected emails or messages, especially those asking for personal or financial information.
  • Implement robust email filtering and spam protection to reduce the likelihood of phishing emails reaching your inbox.

Fake Online Retailers

The convenience of online shopping during the holidays can be a double-edged sword. Cybercriminals set up fake online stores that mimic legitimate retailers, advertising products at unbelievably low prices. Unsuspecting shoppers may end up providing their payment information to these bogus websites, only to receive subpar or counterfeit products in return.

Protect Your Business:

  • Encourage your employees to shop from reputable online retailers.
  • Use secure and well-known payment methods when making online purchases.
  • Educate your team about the importance of scrutinizing the website’s URL and looking for security indicators like the padlock icon.

Charity Scams

Many people feel the spirit of giving during the holidays and look for opportunities to support charitable causes. Cybercriminals exploit this by creating fake charity websites or using social media to solicit donations for non-existent organizations. Money donated to these scams doesn’t go to those in need but instead lines the pockets of fraudsters.

Protect Your Business:

  • Research charities thoroughly before making donations.
  • Make donations directly through the charity’s official website or in-person at their physical location.
  • Educate your employees about the potential risks of online charity scams.

Ransomware Attacks

Cybercriminals don’t take breaks during the holidays. Ransomware attacks can disrupt your business operations and compromise sensitive data. Attackers might exploit employee distractions during the holiday season, making them more likely to click on malicious links or download infected attachments.

Protect Your Business:

  • Regularly back up your data and ensure backups are stored securely.
  • Implement strong security measures and access controls.
  • Train employees on the dangers of downloading files or clicking on links from unknown sources.

E-card Scams

Receiving electronic greeting cards is a common holiday tradition. Cybercriminals may send e-cards laden with malware. When opened, these e-cards can infect your computer or network, potentially causing significant harm.

Protect Your Business:

  • Advise your employees to be cautious when opening e-cards from unknown sources.
  • Ensure your company’s email security system scans for malicious attachments.

While the holiday season is a time of joy and celebration, it’s also a time when cybercriminals work overtime to exploit unsuspecting victims. By staying informed and implementing proactive cybersecurity measures, your business can enjoy the holidays without falling prey to scams and threats.

At SecureWon we’re committed to helping businesses like yours stay secure year-round. Contact us to learn more about our cybersecurity services and how we can safeguard your business during the holiday season and beyond.

Remember, the best gift you can give your business this holiday season is the gift of cybersecurity. Stay safe, stay vigilant, and have a joyful holiday season!

SecureWon at its core is a national technology services company. What separates us from other technology service providers is our commitment to providing superior documentation and accurate reporting of your organization’s security posture. This attention to detail and quality of our services is what drives us. Contact us today for a free assessment of your technology infrastructure.

Newport RI, Managed Service Provider

Meet Our New Security Awareness Director – Doug Fodeman

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Doug is a nationally recognized expert in the area of Internet safety and the developmentally healthy use of technology by children/teens. He has been the Executive Director of The Daily Scam  for more than ten years. The Daily Scam (www.thedailyscam.com) is a website devoted to educating people of all ages across the world how to recognize and avoid online fraud, malicious intent, and to reduce their online risks. Formerly Co-Director of a children’s Internet safety organization from 1997 to 2014, Doug has also co-authored three books and many articles on the topic of Internet safety.  Doug has spoken about Internet and smartphone safety issues on the CBS Evening News, ABC’s World News Tonight, and many radio stations such as WBZ Radio, to name just a few appearances, and given workshops to parents and schools across the United States for more than twenty-five years on the important topic of age-appropriate and developmentally healthy use of technology by children/teens.

Doug will be attending and providing a workshop at the MassCUE Fall Conference titled on Oct 18th. Cybercriminals frequently target inboxes as their primary method of attack to enter an organization’s network and computer resources. Are you the “weakest link” and do you think YOU can spot the fraud when put to the test?  Join Doug Fodeman, Security Awareness Director at SecureWon and Executive Director of TheDailyScam.com in this fast-paced interactive workshop where you will learn how to identify critical “red flags”, learn important nuances about domain names, improve mouse-over skills, recognize 2-letter country codes to uncover fraud, use WHOIS and other online tools to uncover threats, and learn critical Google search tips to keep your organization safe!

SecureWon at its core is a national technology services company. What separates us from other technology service providers is our commitment to providing superior documentation and accurate reporting of your organization’s security posture. This attention to detail and quality of our services is what drives us. Contact us today for a free assessment of your technology infrastructure.

MSP, Newport RI

The Importance of Security Awareness In Educational Facilities

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The Growing Threat Landscape

In today’s digitally connected world, educational facilities such as schools, colleges, and universities are increasingly relying on technology to enhance the learning experience. However, with this reliance on technology comes the pressing need for robust cybersecurity measures. The education sector is not immune to cyber threats, and as educational institutions become more interconnected, the importance of security awareness cannot be overstated. In this blog post, we’ll explore the significance of security awareness in the context of cybersecurity for educational facilities.

Educational institutions store vast amounts of sensitive information, including student records, research data, financial information, and more. This wealth of data makes them attractive targets for cybercriminals seeking to exploit vulnerabilities and gain unauthorized access. Moreover, with the rise of online learning platforms and remote education, the attack surface has expanded, requiring heightened vigilance.

Security awareness involves educating staff, students, and stakeholders about the various cyber threats and best practices to mitigate risks. It’s about fostering a culture of cybersecurity where everyone understands their role in protecting sensitive information and the institution’s digital infrastructure.

The Importance of Security Awareness in Educational Facilities

  1. Data Protection: Educational institutions handle a treasure trove of data, from student records to cutting-edge research. Security awareness training equips staff and students with the knowledge to recognize and respond to phishing attempts, malware, and other cyber threats that could compromise this sensitive data.
  2. Preventing Disruptions: Cyberattacks, such as ransomware, can disrupt normal operations and jeopardize critical educational processes. Security awareness helps staff and students recognize the signs of potential threats, reducing the likelihood of successful attacks and minimizing disruptions.
  3. Protecting Personal Information: With students and staff sharing personal information online, the risk of identity theft and privacy breaches is significant. Security awareness empowers individuals to safeguard their personal data and navigate online platforms more securely.
  4. Safe Online Behavior: Education institutions often encourage the use of technology for research, communication, and collaboration. However, this also exposes users to various online risks. Security awareness teaches safe online practices, such as using strong passwords, avoiding public Wi-Fi for sensitive tasks, and being cautious when clicking on links.
  5. Cultivating a Cybersecure Culture: A strong cybersecurity culture starts with awareness. When students, faculty, and administrators prioritize cybersecurity, it creates an environment where security measures are seen as integral to daily operations.

Implementing Effective Security Awareness Programs

To foster a culture of security awareness within educational facilities, consider the following strategies:

  1. Comprehensive Training: Offer regular training sessions that cover the latest cyber threats, attack techniques, and preventive measures. Tailor the content to various user groups, including students, faculty, and administrative staff.
  2. Simulated Phishing Campaigns: Conduct mock phishing exercises to help users recognize phishing emails and phishing attempts. These exercises can be eye-opening and provide valuable learning experiences.
  3. Clear Policies: Establish clear cybersecurity policies and guidelines for staff and students to follow. Regularly communicate these policies and explain their importance.
  4. Engagement and Rewards: Gamify security awareness training by offering incentives and rewards for individuals who consistently demonstrate good cybersecurity practices.
  5. Find A Trusted Security Partner: You will need a trusted security partner like SecureWon, someone who has the knowledge and experience to implement effective security awareness programs, monitor threats, and educate your staff.

Educational facilities are treasure troves of information and innovation, making them prime targets for cyber threats. Security awareness plays a pivotal role in safeguarding these institutions and creating a culture of cyber vigilance. By educating staff, students, and stakeholders about potential risks and best practices, educational institutions can build a resilient defense against cyberattacks, protect sensitive data, and continue to provide a secure environment for learning and growth in the digital age.

SecureWon at its core is a national technology services company. What separates us from other technology service providers is our commitment to providing superior documentation and accurate reporting of your organization’s security posture. This attention to detail and quality of our services is what drives us. Contact us today for a free assessment of your technology infrastructure.

educational technology

Leadership Lessons: Taking Risks and Realizing the Next Challenge

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The following blog was written Dolly Ryan, and published by The National Association of Independent Schools. Dolly Ryan spent nine years as a head’s assistant and 27 years as technology director at Belmont Day School in Belmont, Massachusetts, where she began her education career in 1987. She will be retiring from Belmont Day in June 2023 and transitioning into her new role as Director of Education at SecureWon, which specializes in helping schools with cybersecurity assessments, compliance, and training.

In 1986, I accepted a head’s assistant position, a temp agency job that I never planned to stay in long. The job would help to subsidize my love of recording music and being part of a fireworks crew every Fourth of July in Boston, or so I thought. As I got into the role, I began to acquire a skill set that included problem-solving in every facet of school life, taking risks, working outside comfort zones, and listening and learning from mistakes—and I knew I found my calling at an independent school. Heads’ assistants wear many hats, are team players, coaches, and leaders, and as such, they pass on important institutional knowledge about historical perspectives, current events, and future initiatives.

In this role, I began to see how my computer skills, developed through earlier experiences as an executive secretary, would benefit the school. The challenge of how I could transfer my knowledge into helping the school understand what technology could do to streamline workflows and increase efficiencies—while opening possibilities for students—was exciting. I knew I’d want to be at the forefront of leading my school into the digital era.

As I enter my 36th year, serving under seven heads in two completely different leadership roles, I’m reflecting on the journey from head’s assistant to director of technology. If I were to write a book about my journey, I would title it Rock N’ Roll, Fireworks, and Education. When you grow from an administrative position that very few men hold in education to a technology position where very few women lead, reflection becomes the road to new growth. Though reflection time is in short supply these days, it’s important to look back at strides taken and roads paved to gain new perspectives.

In the Beginning

I had no formal training of how to go from support staff to the instructional side with a focus on technology, and at that time, the shift to elementary tech programs was just beginning. But the skills I learned as a head’s assistant set the foundation of how to start, grow, and nurture a technology program from the ground up. To start, I set expectations for myself and the administrative team. I believed that we needed to model the use of technology from the top down.

I researched, took workshops, and taught myself through trial and error how to use applications and fix hardware. I did 1:1 training and small group instruction on business applications, automated the library and administrative offices, and incorporated the school’s first student information system. Administrators were the first to work through steep learning curves, and they started to understand the challenges and prepared to support teachers. This also gave me time to survey teachers, identify early adopters, and create a professional development program.

I worked hard to develop the right culture for a professional development program and sought to keep the needs of teachers and students front and center. Guided by a schoolwide goal of developing an intermediate level of tech skills in all users, I created a model that was flexible and adaptable while also cultivating early tech adopters as resident experts in technology integration. I shared that knowledge, and it was featured at a NAIS workshop as a top 10 professional development model and has since been adopted by two other independent schools.

Implementing technology requires creativity, strength, and persistence—in that order. I’ve strategically transposed lessons learned on the administrative side while gathering teacher perspective to help me see how similar changes would impact, challenge, or promote learning on the instructional side. I’ve noticed that my success or failure has been linked to my level of patience and the ability to stay strong and calm amid a technology storm. Failure is part of the process of adopting tech skills, however, and it requires you to learn from it. Success is measured by how well you can handle failure, learn, grow, and then share your knowledge with others.

Navigating Today’s Challenges

As I reflect on the demand for technology and the pace at which it has been adopted over the years, I’ve had a front-row seat to the changes schools have navigated during the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite burnout, school leaders must continue to be strategic, teach the skills students need to succeed, and protect the infrastructure from hackers that test firewalls at an uncontrollable rate. Student learning loss and cybersecurity incidents continues to increase, and tech departments—often understaffed and underfunded—shoulder much of the responsibility for supporting teachers and protecting school systems. The weight of liability and compliance along with the high stakes associated with the responsibility for astronomical amounts of data is daunting.

My perspective on being able to stay on top of the pace of technology has certainly changed over the years. When I was the head’s assistant, it took me a long time to learn the word “no.” As the gatekeeper to the head’s office, I was often viewed as the person with the history and most of the answers. The same held true when I moved into the director role. It’s impossible to know all things, and learning to say “no” has proved to be invaluable when there are only so many hours in a day. But technology is a bigger challenge now, and we can only hope we are able to stay alongside the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI). I wonder what will happen to creativity when a robot can write your papers for you.

I’m concerned about keeping students safe and emotionally healthy. I question where the balance and oversight will be to keep our systems safe and how we will teach the next generation of coders. We are already hearing about exposure to sensitive data and the ability of AI to imbed that data in its algorithms. Currently, there are a lot more questions than answers for educational institutions, but remember, we’ve been here before.

Our responsibility around safeguarding learning environments continues to grow, and there are days when the demands feel impossible. Lifelong learners will reach deep to find ways to continue to reinvent themselves and their programs. I say, live your favorite lyric, take risks, and lead with humor and good intentions.

SecureWon is at its core is a national technology services company and offers a specialized area of focus in Educational Technology. What separates us from other technology service providers is our commitment to providing superior documentation and accurate reporting of your organization’s security posture. This attention to detail and quality of our services is what drives us.  Call today for a free assessment of your technology infrastructure.

ChatGPT is revolutionizing businesses

ChatGPT is Revolutionizing Businesses

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As a large language model developed by OpenAI, ChatGPT is revolutionizing businesses. With its ability to generate human-like responses and perform various tasks, ChatGPT has become a valuable tool for companies to improve their efficiency and streamline their operations.

 Transforming Business Productivity

One of the key ways ChatGPT is transforming business productivity is through its use in customer service. With ChatGPT, companies can provide round-the-clock customer support without the need for human intervention. ChatGPT can handle simple customer queries, provide product information, and even troubleshoot common issues, freeing up customer service agents to focus on more complex tasks. This can lead to improved customer satisfaction and retention rates, as customers receive quick and efficient responses to their queries.

Automating Tasks

Another way ChatGPT is transforming business productivity is through its use in automating repetitive tasks. ChatGPT can be trained to perform tasks such as data entry, scheduling, and report generation, which can save companies significant amounts of time and resources. By automating these tasks, businesses can free up employees to focus on more strategic tasks that require human expertise, such as decision-making and problem-solving.

 Analyzing Data

ChatGPT can also help businesses improve their decision-making processes. With its ability to analyze vast amounts of data and generate insights, ChatGPT can assist in making informed decisions based on historical trends and predictive analytics. This can help businesses identify new opportunities, optimize their operations, and improve their overall performance.

ChatGPT’s impact on business productivity can be seen across various industries. For example, in the healthcare industry, ChatGPT is being used to improve patient outcomes by providing personalized care recommendations based on patient data. In the finance industry, ChatGPT is being used to automate financial analysis and forecasting, improving accuracy and efficiency. In the retail industry, ChatGPT is being used to provide personalized recommendations to customers based on their browsing and purchase history.

What ChatGPT Can Do For Your Business

ChatGPT has transformed the way businesses operate and has had a significant impact on business productivity. With its ability to automate tasks, improve customer service, and assist in decision-making, ChatGPT is a valuable tool for businesses looking to improve their efficiency and streamline their operations. As ChatGPT continues to develop and evolve, it is likely that its impact on business productivity will only continue to grow.

If you would like to learn more about how this revolutionary tool can help your business, we are here to help! Contact us today for a free consultation. Our team of experts can help evaluate business-critical operations and apply innovative approaches and solutions to ensure technology is working in harmony with your business strategy.

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