business-awards

Cyber Attack Checklist

Matthew.Mcgrath@yorb.tech (Matthew McGrath) — Mon, 19 Oct 2020 00:06:40 GMT

Many kiwi businesses, and people around the world fall victim to hacking attempts every day. Devices and accounts have become lucrative targets of online criminals and keeping yourself safe is an ongoing challenge. We have created this ultimate check-list highlighting some key actions to carry out should you, your colleagues, and/or your devices be affected by a cyber-attack.

Here are 8 Immediate actions to take in the event of a post-hacking situation:

1. Change all your passwords:

A Data Breach Incident Report conducted by Verizon in 2018, revealed that 81% of data breaches are caused by compromised, weak, and re-used passwords. Cyber criminals use these accounts to reset passwords and get access to other accounts. Take the time now to reset your passwords, try to use unique passwords for each system you access. Read our Password Guide for recommendations and best practice.

2. De-authorise apps:

De-authorise any apps that are authorised to access your Hotmail, Gmail, and Office 365 account settings. Hackers install unwanted apps that could potentially access your data even after you have changed your password. You can always add them back later.

3. Check E-Mail Rules:

Make sure your personal e-mail accounts do not have any un-wanted rules assigned in the Rules management option. E-mail can be deleted or shifted to a different folder without your knowledge, the hackers may have put these traps in place to remain hidden.

4. Two-Factor Authenticator:

Add a two-factor authenticator to your personal accounts. This means you will receive a text or use a one-time code for access as well as provide your password. This can be setup on your other accounts such as e-mail, Dropbox, and Facebook.

5. Secure your clients:

Recognise that your contact list has probably been downloaded, and now they all may receive spam/phishing emails from your attacker. Let everyone know what happened and to be on the lookout for strange e-mails supposedly coming from your e-mail address.

6. Call the right people:

If you lost out financially, and you have not already done so, talk to your bank and contact the police.

7. Update your anti-virus software:

Make sure your antivirus is all up-to-date and adjust the settings to scan automatically.

8. Keep updates in check:

You can also protect your accounts by updating other software’s installed on your device(s), such as Adobe Reader and Java, for example, and make sure you are keeping up with all the latest windows updates as well.

What next?

There are additional steps we can take to make you a less attractive target, this includes setting up security technologies such as Two-Factor Authentication, enabling Conditional Access and enrolling your team in Online Security training campaigns. If you are interested in taking the next step to securing your business, then come and have a chat with one of our team members to discuss your business security.

Be smarter. Your security is only as strong as your weakest link.

5 ways to improve your business productivity with Microsoft Teams

Matthew.Mcgrath@yorb.tech (Matthew McGrath) — Wed, 16 Sep 2020 00:54:19 GMT

There is more emphasis on today’s business environment to provide a flexible and versatile work-life balance that meets the needs of the workforce. Whether you are exploring into home-based or remote working solutions, or simply looking for a better way to enhance and manage internal or external collaborations, it is important to have the right business tools that enable your team to work efficiently while saving time, money, and resources. In this article, we will share with you 4 reasons why we believe Microsoft Teams is the hub for teamwork and productivity.

1) Flexibility: Operate anywhere, anytime with multi-device capabilities

You no longer have to be stuck at a desk in the office to access your colleagues or clients. Microsoft Teams can now be accessed through any device of your choosing with the Microsoft Teams App :

PC
Laptop
Desktop
Mobile phone (download the IOS or Google Play App)
Tablet and smart devices

Whether you are working in a remote location, or if you are out and about, the Teams app allows you to connect with your colleagues instantly at your fingertips.

2) Calling made simple with Voice integration

Modernize your phone system with Teams Voice integration, it allows you to make phone calls your colleagues, clients or customers directly from your device. This is a handy tool if your role requires you to relocate often or if your have a domestic business meeting, or if you have team members working remotely. There are also options available to call worldwide.

3) Meetings and video conferences with video chat

Connect and communicate with the people inside and outside your organisation with Teams meetings. The video calling feature allows you to host meetings with your colleagues, reference across your team’s calendar to schedule meetings, and you can adjust the in-call background settings to create a virtual ambience suitable to your audience. With Team Meetings you can create a conference meeting with multiple recipients by sending a link via outlook. Your meeting will synchronize on both your Outlook calendar and Microsoft Teams calendar for you to view and adjust either of these platforms.

4) Collaboration, task, and project management

Collaborate with people inside and outside of your organisation with Teams Chat feature. You can host a group chat either one-on-one or include up to 250 participants in one group (useful for organisations with a large staff capacity, or for widespread or interdepartmental collaborations). Group chats also come with the option of creating, sharing, and editing files in real time with other people.

Another great feature in the Teams app is that you can integrate across other Microsoft apps such Planner, OneNote, Word, and flow automation to manage your task or projects.

If you are looking to improve your business productivity or thinking about moving to home-base-employment, Microsoft 365 Teams could be the best solution for your business. Unlock your Teams full capability. With access to everything all in one place, it has never been easier to achieve productivity in the workplace. There are many more features available in Teams that are designed to achieve different tasks within your organisation.

I f you are interested in learning more about the Teams capabilities, features and team collaboration competences, have a chat with our Team to discuss your business needs and discuss ways to improve on your business productivity.

2020 - we are halfway to the finish line, and still running strong

Matthew.Mcgrath@yorb.tech (Matthew McGrath) — Thu, 06 Aug 2020 00:53:04 GMT

Can you believe we are in August already, and the countdown to Christmas has already started! But before we get there, we have the end of the Covid-19 wage subsidy, the New Zealand general election, and the US election to come. All of these things have a potential impact on an already dynamic year.

D espite the challenges that Covid-19 has brought, we’ve already had a year packed with strategic projects intended to improve the level of service we offer our clients. Here are some of the developments we are currently working on:

Service Management System:

Earlier this year, we went live with a new Service Management System. We are still working through some of the finer points of this upgrade, but the results will promise major improvements to our service levels.

Client Portal:

Alongside the new Service Management System, we are launching a new Client Portal. This is currently being rolled out progressively to our clients.

Phone System :

Right before the Covid-19 lockdown, we went live with a new Microsoft Teams based phone system. Although our launch was completed under pressure, it enabled us to continue to deliver full service, no matter where our staff members were stationed. Read all about Microsoft Teams Voice later in this newsletter.

Improving Our Ticketing Services:

Your feedback means a lot to us, and we continue to find ways to improve our service. So, we have recently invested in SmileBack - a client survey system that allows us to receive feedback on our ticketing service. Make sure to keep a lookout for the "smiley face" rating in the email confirming the completion of each job.

System Monitoring & User Support Tools:

The tools we use to monitor your systems and offer support are changing. Before November, we will be live with a new toolset, that can not only monitor your on-premises equipment but will also allow us to integrate further into your Cloud-based systems. New alerting and auto-healing functions will help us ensure your users stay productive, while we proactively deal with issues behind the scenes.

Refocused Software Development Team:

We have recently gone live with our new website development framework. Our new websites can be developed faster, with a richer feature set than ever. This improved efficiency has also allowed our team more time to focus on improving client productivity, by integrating and automating their existing systems.

Client Reporting:

With better systems, comes better data. We are currently developing new Client Reports, these will offer more detail regarding the health of your systems.

Although these changes are keeping us all busy, we are confident that the investment is worth it and will result in us being able to offer you greater value and support.

- The Yorb Team

Deliver a Modern Workplace with Microsoft Teams Voice Integration

Case Study

When New Zealand went into lockdown, many businesses discovered that their phone systems were the weakest link in transitioning from work to home-based employment. While many businesses invested in the right tools enabling staff to work anywhere, anytime, on any device, the phone system remained firmly stuck to an office desk. Read our latest Case Study, where we share the challenges we faced, and how we were able to overcome them over the lockdown.

During the lockdown, maintaining our contact with clients was essential for our business, and having a flexible phone system, made available to us in Microsoft Teams, accommodated our need to stay connected when physical contact was limited.

We continue to see the benefits of integrating Microsoft Teams Voice, and with further enhancements coming over the next few months, we are excited about its future.

What is SSL and why it matters for your business?

Blog Article

At Yorb, one of our highest priorities is to keep businesses and individuals safe from cybercriminals. The impact of Covid-19 raised the cybercrime rate across the globe, businesses were forced to operate from home and criminals looked for ways to exploit new work environments.

As website and e-commerce usage increased, so too did the incidence of online fraud and data theft, with a 189% year on year increase as of 15 April 2020. Ensuring your website is kept up to date and protected, will help build trust, and protect your clients from that latest internet threats.

Read our guide on SSL certificates to gain insights on why they are important for all websites (and not just for banks and Facebook). Ensuring your website is secured will:

Ensure visitors can have confidence you are a business they can trust
Improve your Google search rankings
Prevent sensitive data such as online payments or personal information being leaked and more.

https://www.thinkhauora.nz/

Client Spotlight | THINK Hauora

Digital Marketing

Having a strong online presence is one of the key components to creating value for your business, on a digital platform. We have recently seen an increased interest in business web development, as more and more clients, post-Covid, are understanding the importance of having the right tools in place. Here is one of our clients – THINK Hauora, who recently had a refreshing redesign of their website done with Yorb. Their old system came with restrictions on customising their web content and limited their ability to add new content to the website. Now they’re able to easily make any changes they need, to keep the website up to date. Feel free to check out their brand-new website!

Yorb Humour

Supporting you every step of the way

Yorb is dedicated to helping you by enabling the technologies to take you further in your business. We care about your business, your customers and your team.

What is SSL and why it matters for your business?

Matthew.Mcgrath@yorb.tech (Matthew McGrath) — Thu, 23 Jul 2020 00:52:22 GMT

Have you ever noticed a padlock in the URL search panel? If so, then it is likely you have visited a website that is secure and safe to browse. That is because the website invested in extra armour, so that you can enjoy a safe online experience. Another way to identify whether a website is secure, is to look at the beginning of the URL. Some URLs start with http://, while others begin with https://. The “s” at the end is one of the indicators that a website is secured with a “Secure Socket Layer' (SSL) certificate. Every website should be secured to ensure customers have a safe and secure online experience.

Here are 5 benefits to having an SSL certificate for your website

1. Improves site security

Protecting your visitor’s data should be your top priority. Having an SSL certificate ensures any sensitive data transmitted between your website and client’s device is encrypted. Login information, personal details, addresses, passwords, and credit card information is just some of the data that an SSL certificate will protect from being compromised and stops scammers and hackers from exploiting this data.

2. Improves website credibility

Another benefit of an SSL certificate is that it improves your online credibility. Depending on which certificate is purchased, your browser may display a lock icon, thumbs up icon, a green browser bar, or a symbol reassuring that security is in place. To receive this, your website goes through a verification process. Think of it as a verified Instagram account. When an Instagram account is processed and approved, your Instagram account gets a Blue Tick badge of authenticity, which lets the audience know that you are the real deal. Such verification measures are put in place to ensure imposters cannot create a fake Instagram account pretending to be you. The same process occurs when you have an SSL certificate processed for your website.

3. Improves your SEO Ranking

Search engine optimization (SEO) is the process of optimizing your online content, so that a search engine can filter your website as “relevant” or “highly recommended” when online users search certain keywords. In line with Google’s “HTTPS everywhere” initiative, websites with an SSL certificate enjoy improved web page ranking. In addition, according to the Google Webmaster Central Blog, secure websites get an SEO boost, giving you an edge over the competition. If you are not seeing enough results from your SEO efforts, perhaps consider getting an SSL certificate to boost your ranking. If you need support with your SEO rankings, Yorb has specialists that can assist you.

4. Provides security for online payments

In the initial stages of the Covid-19 outbreak, New Zealand’s online shopping behaviour had dramatically increased to a whopping “189 per cent up year on year as of 15 April” according to Covid-19 commerce Insights (source: ccinsight.org). It came as no surprise that online scamming and phishing (e-mail scams) also increased during the quarantine. Websites left unchecked and unsecured run the risk of compromising the customer’s personal details, such as credit card details, or e-mail address etc. and can cause serious damage to your business.

5. SSL Improves Customer Trust

Apart from encryption and authentication, SSL certificates are vital from a customer trust point of view. Several years ago, Google flagged all websites without an SSL certificate as “unsafe”. This means that, to remain in the good books of Google and your human visitors, installing an SSL certificate on your website is a must. Displaying an icon that promise a safe browsing experience provides assurance that the customer can trust your business website. Depending on which certificate is purchased, your browser may display a lock icon, a thumbs up icon, a green browser bar, or a symbol reassuring that security is in place. An SSL certificate is not only important for e-commerce websites, but also essential for service-based websites, such as small auto shops, schools, or a law office.

Want to know more about the security for your business website? Feel free to call our friendly team on 0800 600 606 to discuss your Business Technology needs.

Hello From the Yorb Bubble!

Matthew.Mcgrath@yorb.tech (Matthew McGrath) — Wed, 03 Jun 2020 00:51:58 GMT

Over the past few weeks, we have taken the Modern Workplace to the next level! Proving the concept of a Modern Workplace using tools that enable work from anywhere, anytime, on any device, has been enormously satisfying. Some highlights have been our virtual Friday night drinks with the team and making a very successful switch to a new Teams based phone system.

The levels of lockdown have taught us all to be more dynamic, learning to adapt to a rapidly changing world. With the specifics of a new level being released only days before the transition, we had to act quickly. For us, that meant assisting businesses transition to a 100% working from home model or deploying an e-commerce platform in under 24 hours. We were proud when many of our clients were able to make these adjustments to their business models with minimal disruption, and how employees adopted the new technology.

At level 2, we are all taking a breath and getting a much-needed haircut, whilst looking at how we can support our clients with new contact tracing systems. We anticipate that these systems will need to be in-place for some time and have been encouraged by how easy it can be setting up a robust system from the box tools in the Office 365 suite. Many of our manufacturing and retail sector clients have deployed simple, yet effective solutions (created using Microsoft Power Apps, Forms and SharePoint) that meet compliance requirements and augment workplace health and safety processes.

While most of our team are slowly migrating back to the office, we are looking forward to Level-1 when the entire team is again part of the daily office banter.

-Team At Yorb

News Update

Recovery to reality

Business Blog

Covid-19 has created uncertainty for large and small businesses across New Zealand. We have all been moving through the crisis stages (with the initial Response followed by Resiliency and Recovery) it’s now time to consider what the new Reality might be. Read our Blog Recovery to Reality where we will discuss some proactive ideas that aim to inspire strategic decision making during these unprecedented times.

New Microsoft Data Centre opens new business opportunities

Microsoft and the government recently made media headlines with the announcement that Microsoft would be opening their first New Zealand datacentre. The potential impact of this to the New Zealand Cloud computing market cannot be understated. Setting up a datacentre is a massive investment, even a company the size of Microsoft does not make these investments lightly. But what benefits will a new local datacentre bring to us, given many of us already use Office 365 and other Azure services hosted in Australia without apparent issue?

Data Sovereignty: Although for the most part storing data in Australia has been widely accepted as ok, there have still been lingering concerns in some quarters. These issues will finally be put to bed.
Performance & Reliability: Although uncommon, speed and reliability issues do occasionally raise their head. An in-country fibre link will prevent your teenagers slowing down your Office 365 whenever they start gaming with their friends in Oz.
New Opportunities: Many legacy applications, as well as new AI and big data systems, require super-fast low latency connections. This has meant leaving critical line of business applications on-premises or stifling our creative juices, as we simply could not process large quantities data into the Cloud at scale at a cost-effective rate.

The new datacentre is unlikely to be operational for some time, we will bring you more information as it becomes available.

Keeping your Data safe

Phishing scams in New Zealand

Not enough businesses are aware of the damage that cyber criminals are capable of. We have seen an increase in Phishing reports over the last three weeks and we want to do our best to protect you from becoming the next victim. Here are a few key things you must know.

Email Phishing is the most common type of scam and can target anyone on any device.

Phishing criminals exploit your data, confidential information, accounts and more.

Your data is your business asset. These are exposed when systems are compromised.

Call us to secure your business

Securing your data is important to us, and we want to ensure every business is making informed decisions regarding how best to protect you and your staff. If you are made aware of these threats, then you are one step closer to protecting your company data. If you are not undertaking regular security training with your staff, or have not yet enabled multi-factor authentication systems, then you are exposing yourself to increased risk. Please give us a call for more information

Modern Workplace

Microsoft Teams Case Study

Understanding that adopting a work-from-home based employment system could be a possibility for our future, Yorb has recently collaborated with Hachiko and Microsoft on a case study focusing on the integration of Microsoft Teams as a key contributor to internal communications. We will share more on this in the coming weeks.

Supporting you every step of the way

Yorb is dedicated to helping you by enabling the technologies to take you further in your business. We care about your business, your customers and your team.

Get your own webshop in 24 hours

Matthew.Mcgrath@yorb.tech (Matthew McGrath) — Tue, 21 Apr 2020 00:51:07 GMT

Have an Alert Level 3 Web shop up and running for your business within 24 hours

The Government has recently clarified that some businesses can open at Alert Level 3 only if they sell their products contactless and via pre-ordered pick-up or delivery.

To help you get back to business, Yorb and our in-house web development team, can turn on a templated shop front for your business within 24 hours in 3 quick easy steps:

Step 1 – Decide which size Web shop will support your business and contact Yorb - We’ll then arrange for one of our web developers to call you back

Step 2 – Our web developer will walk through the templated design with you and then send you a templated spreadsheet into which you will need to add your products and provide the relevant photos of each item

Step 3 – With the spreadsheet uploaded final checks can be made. The store can then be opened immediately to allow the processing of orders and payments ready for shipments and/or pick-ups on Tuesday 28th April.

The shop will be able to take credit card payments and your customers will have the choice to have their items shipped or to pick up at a specified time from your premises.

You can even attach your shop to Facebook and Instagram for extra visibility.

It couldn’t be any easier to sell online!

Our monthly hosting fee will be $99 per month for a minimum period of 3 months and includes all the Web shop infrastructure that you require.

Our Web shop sizes and associated development fees are:

Up to 100 products $499
Up to 500 products $999
500+ products will be Subject to scoping

Please contact Yorb on 0800 600 606 for further details and support.

(All prices Excl. GST & Transaction fees additional)

16-Apr Post Level 4 Lockdown

Matthew.Mcgrath@yorb.tech (Matthew McGrath) — Thu, 16 Apr 2020 00:50:46 GMT

Yorb Covid-19 Bulletin – 16th April

We’re past the two week point of our lockdown and routine has set in for some and frustration for others. We’ve been impressed with how businesses have reacted to these challenges, many finding innovative new ways of doing business. Now that the enforced 4-week lockdown period end date is on the horizon, our attention is focused on what is required to reignite our businesses under a "new normal" and how we transition out of Alert Level 4.

Post Alert Level 4 Lockdown

Today, the government has announced its guidance for what Alert Level 3 means:

Who can work?
What businesses will need to do to comply?
The role the education system plays; and
Considerations that businesses should take regarding employees where dependants are involved.

While more businesses can resume trading once the alert level is reduced, this ability comes with additional measures that need to be taken. The key for reopening remains the health of workers, with the ability to ensure workplaces operate safely (hygiene, cleanliness and limiting interactions) along with recording who is working together (tracing movements).

In preparation for the impending reduction to Alert Level 3, we have been canvasing a selection of clients to understand how Yorb can assist business’s getting back to work safely with a minimum of disruption.

What barriers do you see for your business re-opening as we come out of Level 4 lockdown?
Do you have the ability to trace people movements (staff and contractors) both internally and externally?
Are you able to transact contactless orders and deliveries?

Tracing people movements is a key focus for the government. Several solutions are currently hitting the market that cater for this requirement. Our teams are evaluating a number of these solutions and are well placed to offer advise around selection.

There is an ability for business to open using delivery and contactless pre-order pickup. It may be possible for your business to resume trading using an e-commerce solution within days.

Please contact your Client Manager if you would like to discuss options.

A New Normal

Packing up an entire business and expecting people to work from home is a bit more than simply taking home your computer and making sure it connects to the Internet. Keeping true to Yorb's core values, we have found new ways to communicate and support our teams while keeping personal relationships with our staff and clients healthy. Here is a small peek at what we’ve been doing to keep sane and carry on.

HPE Finance – Supporting your business

The lockdown has hit us all hard and may have impacted your immediate cashflow and investment in future business opportunities. HPE Finance has announced plans to support both existing clients with repayment holidays and new clients needing to progress capital projects with deferred payment or low start finance. Talk to your Client Manager about how Yorb and HPE finance can assist your business.

Microsoft Teams Training

Over the past two weeks we’ve run several free online training events on how to use Microsoft Teams to enable your business during lockdown. With over 300 participants to these sessions they have been an overwhelming success and have really started a conversation regarding what the Modern Workplace could and should look like. Unfortunately, we’re not able to cover the entire breadth of Teams in a single free hour-long session, therefore we will therefore be running some half day courses over the next few weeks. Please register your interest here and we will contact you with precise times and dates when confirmed.

Yorb are here to help you every step of the way

All indications suggest businesses will be given very little notice advising when a return to work is possible. To combat this, all of us here at Yorb are poised to assist our client’s transition through the alert levels and get you back to full productivity as quickly as possible. We have the people , the processes and the technology to make all of this happen - we just need a date!

Please contact your Client Manager or our Support Team on 0800 600 606 if you have any questions.

27-Mar Security Update

Matthew.Mcgrath@yorb.tech (Matthew McGrath) — Thu, 26 Mar 2020 23:49:49 GMT

Any system that has enough pressure applied, will eventually start to show signs of weakness. The speed at which COVID-19 has forced workforces to operate from outside the fortifications of their usual office systems and tools, has exposed gaps in cybersecurity practises. Some are cavernous, others more subtle.

Now that we are all starting to develop our routines in the “the new normal”, it’s time to take a breath and look at how we are operating from remote locations, and what we can do to improve our security.

Our observations over the first 48 hours of lockdown

Responsibility to secure information

Our obligations to secure sensitive data have not altered. In the first 48 hours of lockdown many of us have found that our processes rely heavily on people to manage and monitor our systems.

S ecurity controls for non-distributed workforces typically depend on the local networks in our offices. Devices that are no longer connected directly to the local network are more difficult to update, manage and monitor. be rest assured, they are well supported by your normal site engineers.

Increase in scams and attacks

World leaders are obsessed with deploying measures to eradicate COVID-19. Media outlets are being used to reinforce government messaging and directives, focusing our attention on the gravity of this situation.

Inadvertently, we are dropping our guard and the bad guys are taking full opportunity to exploit this situation. Ransomware, phishing and malware disguised as official COVID-19 or Coronavirus information is on the increase and are continually testing users' abilities to identify what is legitimate.

Escalation details are on our website

Adhoc work from home arrangements

Those of us with newly distributed workforces have found that hunkering down at home has been a challenge.

Remote access solutions are struggling to cope with capacity
Permissions are being elevated to cater for access issues.
Residential internet connections are under pressure when trying to cater for kids streaming schoolwork, Netflix and Teams video conferencing all at the same time
Printing is proving to be a regular request for support teams.

Home devices (BYOD) have been required to bridge gaps where there is not enough business equipment available

Multi-factor authentication

There has been a lot of discussions held around Multi-factor authentication for some time, but very little traction in deployments. For many, being forced into a distrusted workforce, an added layer of security would be a welcomed comfort right now.

Devices left in offices unattended

Many end users left the office in such haste that countless devices remain turned on and unattended in offices. Without regular interaction from people, these devices provide opportunity to be exploited. This is especially important if updates are not automated and applied in timely fashions.

There are still examples of backup solutions which require the manual changing of portable drives to be taken offsite. The backups are likely to be running to schedule but will be overwriting the currently attached disk, and under the lockdown regime, you have no ability to get them offsite.

Distractions

Sharing workspaces with competing priorities is a challenge. Kids wanting your time and attention or to do something on the computer, the cat wanting a pat or fear of a deadly virus getting into your house are all taking our attention away from security. This is a time where employee focus is essential.

What can we do in the coming weeks to reduce this risk?

Increased vigilance for scammers

The best thing everybody can do - turn on you bullshit radar! If it looks too good to be true, it probably is.

Make sure you have good processes in place to authorise payments. Don’t rely on email alone. You must confirm email requests by verified voice contact with the requester. Be sure who you are paying is genuine!

Now is the time to keep investing in training staff. Continue your email phishing testing and make it more challenging. If you don’t have this in place, consider deploying it.

When checking if something is true or not, use trusted sources of information. Ring our Support Centre or use government sites such as Cert NZ .

Backups online

If the restoration of your business information remains in a portable disk inside an inaccessible building, then you need to give us a call to discuss options now.

T here are many online solutions that can easily be configured remotely that will provide you with some comfort that your data is at least available for recovery if needed.

Accessing systems behind locked doors and Securing information

Rather than allowing home devices access to your systems with, at best, limited security prevention installed, give us a call to see what is best for your situation.

W e have a COVID-ready solution available that will allow staff to securely connect to a desktop inside your office from a home device without fear of any cyber-nasties getting in.

Planning

The current lockdown is unlikely to be the one and only time we experience this type of event. With time away from the water-cooler chats and general office distractions, we are using the enforced lockdown to do some business planning and critical thinking, and we think you should to.

If you don’t already have plans in place, now is an ideal time to start working through your Business Continuity plans or to look at improving your security posture with multifactor authentication technology.

If you have not already adopted a modern workplace, then now is also the time to look at how the current situation is affecting your business, and how a mobile, modern workplace can help your business stay relevant.

24-Mar Support Update

Matthew.Mcgrath@yorb.tech (Matthew McGrath) — Mon, 23 Mar 2020 23:49:29 GMT

While we are all entering this full lockdown period, Yorb is a key supplier for many essential services and therefore we remain open and available to support your business.

If you require advice, guidance or support, please do not hesitate to reach out to your Client Manager or our Client Support Team on 0800 600 606..

What to expect in the next 4 weeks

Red Team

To make everybody as safe as we can, Yorb has created an onsite support team – Red Team .

The Red team represent our mobile and onsite response team. During the shutdown period, Red Team will be supporting our essential services clients with any onsite requirements. This means you may see some unfamiliar faces onsite – be rest assured, they are well supported by your normal site engineers.

The lights are on

Our entire team is now working remotely. All our standard communication channels remain in place along with our standard business hours. Projects will continue to be delivered and support requests will be serviced.

At Yorb, we are taking the opportunity to get through some of those tasks that have been on the back burner for a while. There are a few projects that the lockdown period will allow us to focus on. If you are taking the opportunity to do the same and need our help, please call.

If you need to escalate anything, please contact your Client Manager in the first instance. Escalation details are on our website

Deliveries

Our supply channels are still operating, and we still have access to parts and accessories. While some hardware is still scarce, overseas supply chains are starting to move and stock levels are starting to build.

For orders that are fulfilled, where possible, we will be shipping directly to customers premises or homes.

If you need anything during this lockdown period, just email sales@yorb.tech or contact your Client Manager directly.

Laptops

If you are due a laptop, these will be shipped directly to your homes. In most instances, we will be remotely installing and configuring them. Your help will be required to unbox and plug in for us, and from there we will talk you through getting them connected to the internet. Once that is done, we will take over from there .

Training

We have training sessions scheduled this Thursday and Friday, these are tailored to helping people use existing tools such as Microsoft Teams, enabling your business to function over the coming weeks. Please register for the training on our website and keep monitoring Covid-19 Page for additional training sessions we will be publishing.

Thank you for your patience

Our team is available for you and all standard contact points are open.
Urgent Essential Services requests will take priority
Connect with our Facebook page for updates
We are only a phone call away – call us on 0800 600 606
Stay safe.

Read more at: https://www.yorb.tech/Events/54/24_Mar-Support-Update

22-Mar Pandemic Action Plan

Matthew.Mcgrath@yorb.tech (Matthew McGrath) — Fri, 20 Mar 2020 23:48:58 GMT

Following the Government’s announcement Saturday afternoon, detailing the Covid-19 Alert levels and instruction, Yorb is now executing its Pandemic plan.

Our efforts are a careful balance of supporting you through this ever-evolving situation, while remaining focused on keeping people safe and prioritising our resources to support your efforts to do the same.

If you require advice, guidance or support, please do not hesitate to reach out to your Client Manager or Client Support Team on 0800 600 606.

P andemic plan in action - What you can expect.

Alternative workplaces

Our teams have the capability to work from anywhere there is an Internet connection and do so on a regular basis. As of Monday, we will have a skeleton staff in the office, with the remainder of the team working from alternative workplaces. For many, this will mean working at home.

W e have processes in place to check in with our staff to make sure they are in good health and have the support around them to help you with support requests and enquires.

Prioritisation of work

In the coming days, we are expecting a slightly higher call volume to our Support Centre as our clients try to navigate the alternative workplaces directive and what that means for them. We have allocated additional staff to answer phones and assist with your requests. To cater for the expected increase in call volumes, our processes are as follows:

Phone for Urgent assistance

As always, if your issue is urgent, phone us on 0800 600 606. Your call will be triaged and allocated to the appropriate resource for actioning. Clients providing essential services will be prioritised . You will be advised of expected resolution times.

If you need to escalate an issue, please contact your Client Manager in the first instance.

Until the government changes the current alert level, site visits for urgent work will still be undertaken , with additional precautions applied

Email for Non-Urgent assistance

If you require non-urgent assistance, email our Support Centre . We have dedicated Support Centre team members monitoring emails coming in all day. We will prioritise each incoming support request and provide you with details on when to expect assistance.

Sales or Account enquiries

If you have an account or sales enquiry, use the normal channels of contact. sales@yorb.tech or accounts@yorb.tech should be the first option for non-urgent requests. If urgent, contact your Client Manager.

O ur Sales and Accounts teams are among many that will be working from alternative workplaces or assisting with the expected increase of call volumes. We will be prioritising requests the same as we are for support matters.

Covid-19 specific updates and information

It’s important to us that we keep you informed of what we are doing and providing you with sources of information to help your teams. We also recognise that there is a lot of information flowing and that you are likely to overwhelmed with information to consume.

F or now, Yorb will use the following channels to disseminate key information:

URGENT

messages will be communicated via our Facebook page , Twitter and through email. Please make sure you join our Facebook page and follow us on Twitter.

Information, Tips and Suggestions

will be available on our website . We will be sharing how we are using the tools during this pandemic – some may be of use to you and your teams.

Free Training

This coming Thursday and Friday we are running free, 1-hour training sessions on various Teams and Office 365 topics. Make use of these so that your staff can utilise toolsets available to them. Register your interest here

Thank you for your patience

Yorb is focused on minimising the severity of the external impacts and implications Covid-19 has on all of us
Prioritisation of requests is now necessary. We will keep you informed
Connect with our Facebook page for updates
We are only a phone call away - call us on 0800 600 606

19-Mar Preparing for Covid-19

Matthew.Mcgrath@yorb.tech (Matthew McGrath) — Wed, 18 Mar 2020 23:48:23 GMT

In the past week, the potential that one of your team (or your entire office) may face isolation has dramatically increased. There is also the possibility of school and childcare facility closures resulting in staff needing to remain home to watch their children.

With the potential business impact and evolving government response to Covid-19, Yorb is adapting our contingency planning to support you, while remaining focused on keeping people safe.

If you require advice, guidance or support, please do not hesitate to reach out to your Client Manager or Client Support Team on 0800 600 606.

Our continued care for you.

Financial well being

Generating invoices and statements, paying staff and bills must carry on as normal. Accessing these systems securely from any location will be highly dependent on the systems you use. If you find gaps in completing these processes while working remotely or through your testing, simply contact your Client Manager and we will arrange to have one of our team work through a number of practical solutions which are readily available and can be deployed quickly.

Yorb recognises that the effect this pandemic will have on business is going to vary considerably. If you foresee any challenges or seek specialised care during this event, please talk with your Client Manager so we can understand your situation and discuss tailored options to help.

Workloads and Projects

Its business as usual for Yorb. The impact that Covid-19 is having on businesses has meant we have seen a spike of enquiries for additional devices, support to ensure staff can work remotely, or assistance with delivering business continuity plans. Our Support Centre and project delivery teams are continuing to manage your requests and projects, and process those in a timely manner. Clients Managers will continue to discuss with you agreed technology roadmaps and scheduling of proposed projects. As mentioned before, supply of hardware is constrained - where this affects delivery, we will be in touch directly to discuss options and keep you informed.

Free Training! Utilise the tools you have

Cloud applications, mobility and remote access are now coming into their own and for many, will be the catalyst that ensures businesses can ride out the turbulent times. Many of you have a suite of collaboration tools that are either underutilised, or you are now extending their use to staff that have not previously been trained. We are in the process of finalising a series of online training sessions focusing on the communication features of Office 365. Be it a refresher for those already using the tools, or those of you adopting remote communications for the first time, Teams Video calling, Chat and Voice calling will be featured.

If you are interested in a free, one-hour session, please register your interest here.

What you can expect from us

We will be issuing further guidance over the next few days regarding how we intend to keep our teams safe while continuing to support you. This will include a range of measures including new equipment cleaning best practices as well as what our team will do if onsite work is required.

W e will also be contacting many clients directly to ensure you are confident in your own systems ability to cope. Our priority remains keeping people safe, while ensuring our clients can continue to work with minimal disruption. Your Client Manager will be in contact to make sure we are doing all we can for you and to get an understanding of your preparedness.

Resilience is our strength

The situation is changing quickly – as are our efforts to support you
Continue your testing regimes and work with us to bridge any gaps
Make use of our online training offerings
We will continue to provide regular updates and share practical solutions/advice.
Yorb is focused on minimising the severity of the external impacts and implications Covid-19 has on all of us
We are only a phone call away – call us on 0800 600 606

12-Mar Yorb Covid-19 Client Bulletin

Matthew.Mcgrath@yorb.tech (Matthew McGrath) — Wed, 11 Mar 2020 23:47:29 GMT

Covid-19 has captured news headlines across the world. While New Zealand is not immune to the virus, our view is that it is the external flow on effects that are likely to have the greatest impact on local business.

Yorb is taking a pragmatic approach to the potential threats, keeping a careful watch on events as they unfold, remaining calm and taking some precautionary steps along the way. If you require advice, guidance or support, please do not hesitate to reach out to your Client Manager or Client Support Team on 0800 600 606.

This is what we are doing to take care of both you and us.

Remote Support

Every day, when clients call Yorb they receive remote support to address their issues via one of our experienced Support Centre Team. What you may be unaware of is that the people supporting you could be in the Support Centre, in any one of our regional offices, or operating securely from home. We can remotely support you and your teams; we use those tools and processes every day and are confident that these will continue to deliver in an event such as a pandemic.

Business Continuity

We are taking the opportunity to bring forward our Business Continuity Planning and Disaster Recovery testing this year, focusing on a pandemic event. First and foremost, the wellbeing of our clients and staff are our main concern. We have a plan in place to do all that we can to support any of our team and their families that may be affected by the virus, while reducing the risk to our clients should any of our team contract the virus.

Isolation or Outbreak

Where self-isolation is required, our team have the ability to assist our clients from their own homes. This is business as usual.

In the event of a public outbreak, our policy is to introduce Remote Customer Support for all but essential work. Where work cannot be completed remotely, we will of course attend site with due precautions. It is possible that you will experience extended wait times for onsite work. We will be in contact if this is expected to occur.

Suppliers and Partners

Our support partners and suppliers are also taking a pragmatic approach towards the Covid-19 situation. We are receiving timely updates from each and will pass those on where appropriate. To date, the most significant impact that will affect us all is shipping delays and the supply of hardware. This is expected to continue, we urge you to contact your Client Manager if you have any upcoming or planned hardware upgrades or procurement requirements.

Our advice to you for consideration

Full Business Continuity planning (BCP) can be an extensive exercise. Understanding what the risks are to your business and then defining and testing appropriate mitigation strategies can take time.

For those of you that don’t have a fully developed and tested business continuity plan, there are some pragmatic steps that can be taken now to ensure you are prepared should any of your team be affected by the current Covid-19 event.

Working Remotely

If you or your team need to work from home:

Do you have suitable Internet access?
What system(s) access do you require?
Can you access critical files and applications?
Is access to the phone system available remotely, could you simply redirect to mobile phones?
Can you setup your computer or laptop at home without physical assistance? Is the ability to print critical?

Test Remote Working

We strongly encourage you to test the ability to work from home.

Over the next few weeks have team members work from home for the day. Note down any issues they encounter and work with the Yorb Support Centre to ensure these are resolved adequately.

We expect that users who have not previously worked from home will experience some issues and may not have all the required systems in place.

If you do plan to complete testing, we would appreciate it if you would provide us with advanced warning and a schedule of who will be undertaking the test so we can alert our support team accordingly.

Security

Have the security implications of remote working been considered?

The bad guys love events like this and will exploit them where possible. Extra vigilance is required if working remotely.

Remind staff about phishing scams and what to look for
Ensure you have appropriate processes to check payments are valid and authorised before paying
Don’t rely on email being secure!

Contact Lists and Communications

Make sure you have updated contact lists for your suppliers and staff and that they are readily available.

Consider alternative methods of contacting staff, especially for those that live outside of cellular coverage areas. Social media channels might be an option.

C onsider how you will communicate with your customers, how frequently and with what information. Let them know in advance of what to expect.

Key Takeaways

We are keeping calm - Its business as usual
You should test the ability to securely work remotely
If the event of a community outbreak:
We can remotely support you and your teams
When attending site, there is likely to be extended wait times and additional precautions taken
Plan – Supply of hardware is slowing We are here to help – call us on 0800 600 606

How to turn off Teams auto start

Matthew.Mcgrath@yorb.tech (Matthew McGrath) — Wed, 30 Oct 2019 23:47:08 GMT

Microsoft has begun rolling out an Office 365 update that automatically deploys Microsoft Teams to desktop and laptop computers. We consider Microsoft Teams a fantastic product that has many advantages for enabling the Modern Workplace, increasing collaboration, communication, and productivity across your business. However, if you’re unaware of Microsoft Teams it may come as a surprise and a nuisance to have it automatically starting when your computer turns on in the morning. If you would prefer this tool is not automatically enabled on start-up please let our Support Centre know ( support@yorb.tech ) and we can arrange for it to be disabled.

If you are unfamiliar with Microsoft Teams and would like more information please do not hesitate to contact your Client Manager, or email sales@yorb.tech to discuss this further or for them to give you a demonstration of its capabilities.

Further resources are also available at Microsoft Teams and the Modern Workplace . You can also click here to view a Teams Guided Tour

Deploying Teams into your business needs careful consideration up front to ensure the structure, and features, are fully aligned to your business. Again Yorb can help you prepare for this deployment and give you the correct advice and guidance every step of the way.

We will also be holding some informal ‘Time for Teams’ events across all of our regions in the New Year. If you would be interested in coming along and hearing more about Microsoft Teams as well as see some live demonstrations, please register your interest in the below form.

What is the modern workplace

Matthew.Mcgrath@yorb.tech (Matthew McGrath) — Tue, 22 Oct 2019 23:46:18 GMT

The modern workplace, digital workplace and digital transformation have become buzz words over the past few years. But it can be difficult to get a clear definition of what a modern workplace is and how it can benefit your business.

New technologies are changing the way we live and work. They present new ways of solving old problems, create new business models, and impact our daily lives. With these new tools, the perfect opportunity has opened to revolutionise the workplace and shape an environment that allows you to attract the best employees. Welcome to the modern workplace.

Every business has to a degree embraced a modern workplace.

If you access your e-mail, calendar, and contacts from your mobile phone then you are already working in a modern workplace.

Work anywhere

In the traditional model, everyone got up each day to drive to the office to do their work. People tended to live somewhat close by the office where their work was done.

But now with portable devices and wireless connectivity, people can now work from home, on a client’s site, on public transport or in cafes. Employees now have the flexibility to be productive wherever they are.

Work anytime

In the past, the employees tended to work fixed hours in an office. They did their 9-to-5 and then stayed late when needed. Businesses have become more global and our lives have become busier, which changes our traditional workday.

Employees can now work offsite at meetings, traveling for business, at home, or work hours that suit their job tasks and lifestyle.

Work on any device

Today’s dynamic workplace devices are simpler and more agile. Users are working across multiple devices such as PCs, tablets, laptops, and smartphones.

The right technology allows your employees to access data, collaborate and securely connect with each other.

Securely

While the Modern Workplace opens more opportunities for your business, it does not remove the responsibility to secure and protect valuable information. Regardless of whether you are using a Modern Workplace or a more traditional folder/email working style, cyber-attacks are more frequent. No longer can you rely on larger locks (firewalls) to ensure your safety. Confidence comes from adopting a companywide, multi-faceted approach to security that incorporates modern workplace tools and methods to secure critical assets.

The modern workplace is not based on one model. Rather, it’s a constantly evolving flexible, dynamic, and collaborative space powered by technology within which work is done. Working anywhere, anytime, on any device – securely.

Technology as a business enabler

Matthew.Mcgrath@yorb.tech (Matthew McGrath) — Thu, 17 Oct 2019 23:45:51 GMT

Technology holds such promise for businesses, but how often do you find technology standing in the way instead of enabling your businesses success? At our fingertips, we have powerful machines and software that open up myriad possibilities for new ways of working. So why does it sometimes feel like they don’t deliver for the business? Simply having new technology does not translate into more productive workplaces or increased sales. Artificial Intelligence may be exceptionally smart, but it cannot replace human planning and leadership. Unlocking technology as a business enabler needs a business-led and solution-focused approach.

Just like any business tool, the benefits of technology must be leveraged through strategy and planning firmly tied to concrete goals and targeted key performance indicators in order to gauge success. Devising the right technology strategy starts with a seat for a technology partner at the planning table; but that seat needs to be earned, which highlights how important it is for today’s technology professionals to have business and technical skills.

Technology leaders must understand the marketplace for business technology, be able to advise on the right option to alleviate pain points within the business, and then devise a plan for the implementation. If your team is struggling to collaborate due to incompatible software, a misfiring network, and outdated hardware, a business owner can consider implementing new software-as-a-service (SaaS) tools to facilitate document sharing, quick messaging, and group video calls. But even if every employee has a new elite notebook, the fast internet connection, and the latest collaborative technology does not mean they will utilise the power. That’s why enabling business success through technology also comes down to leadership; your team needs to be brought on board with new processes so that they are effectively using the technology at their disposal.

Training is key – people can’t be expected to fully exploit new systems if they do not understand them. It’s clear that enabling business success through technology runs deeper than installing new hardware and software. Strategic investments in new technology closely tied with business objectives and targeted solutions will create a more efficient business and provide it a competitive advantage in the marketplace.

T he benefit of business technology is not measured by the number of individual devices or the size of a hard drive – it’s the way they are used to facilitate a seamless work environment for your team, and the way it creates frictionless selling environment for your customers.

Understanding the cloud

Matthew.Mcgrath@yorb.tech (Matthew McGrath) — Wed, 09 Oct 2019 23:45:05 GMT

The “Cloud” has been with us for over a decade with Google and Amazon using the term to describe their systems as early as 2006. In the intervening years it has become an industry buzzword, but like many buzzwords it’s been hijacked and misinterpreted by players both inside and outside the industry to suit their needs. I’m not about to create my own definition to further confuse the market, instead here are a couple of the straighter forward definitions.

“Cloud computing is the on-demand availability of computer system resources , especially data storage and computing power , without direct active management by the user.” Wikipedia…

“Cloud computing is a method of providing a set of shared computing resources that includes applications, computing, storage, networking, development, and deployment platforms as well as business processes.” Cloud for Dummies

Cloud computing means storing and accessing data and programs over the Internet instead of your computer's hard drive. https://au.pcmag.com/networking-communications-software/29902/what-is-cloud-computing

The Cloud can provide massive opportunities for your business, it gives you access to the latest technologies that would simply be out of reach unless you had an enterprise datacentre. But the Cloud is not for everyone, or more importantly not for every service. Below are the common misconceptions we hear on a regular basis.

Once I move to the Cloud I can stop worrying about my data

Incorrect, the information you put in the Cloud is your property, you need to take care of it. Ensure you are putting that data with a trusted provider, do your research and understand the risks. Remember your data, and the private data of others you keep is your responsibility.

In the Cloud, backups are taken care of for me

Incorrect, some services will undertake regular backups, however the scope of these backups and your access to them may not be straightforward. Question what backups are undertaken by the provider and how you can recover from a disaster. Do not assume the provider is carrying this risk for you.

The Cloud is cheaper

Sometimes, the true cost of an on-premise IT system (Total Cost of Ownership) vs Cloud-based systems can be difficult to calculate. If you are looking to truly benefit from the Cloud, don’t simply look at the costs. Consider mobility, security, flexibility, scale, and resiliency. If your motivation costs only, then do your sums carefully.

The government requires my data to be hosted in NZ

Without knowing your own individual industry compliance requirements then this one is hard to answer. However, in general, the New Zealand government has authorised businesses to store data offshore. The Ministry of Health authorised the storage and processing of Health-related data offshore in 2017 and the IRD made changes way back in 2013.

The reality is that the Cloud is not an all or nothing solution. Many businesses are successfully embracing a hybrid approach, which means putting the services that make the most sense to you in the Cloud. Assess each system you run such as communications, backups and disaster recovery, accounting solutions, payroll etc, once you’ve determined the best system for each, can then properly leverage this innovative technology to its maximum value.

Why is Backup, Disaster Recovery, Business Continuity important for your business

Matthew.Mcgrath@yorb.tech (Matthew McGrath) — Wed, 11 Sep 2019 00:44:48 GMT

Backup, disaster recovery, and business continuity. These terms are often used interchangeably in the technology sphere, though they all have different meanings. All three terms are about risk and risk mitigation. Understanding your business and what level of risk you are prepared to accept will help you decide the most appropriate level of protection.

Backup

We all know we should back up our data, whether it’s your holiday snaps, school assignments or financial systems, get them backed up! The risk to your data comes from hundreds of sources such as data corruption, hardware failure, cybersecurity incident, malicious staff, accidental deletion to name a few. Deciding on which software or method to back your data upon depends on the type of data you have.

Key Backup Considerations:

Frequency: How often do you need to backup? For critical data that changes frequently, you may need to backup every 15 minutes. For some other data, daily, weekly or even monthly might suffice.

Location: Where is your backup? If you have a building fire, having the backup stored onsite is no help. Always have a copy of your data offsite at a remote location.

Retention: How long do you need to store your backups? Consideration should be given to your own requirements as well as any potential legal compliance.

Disaster Recovery

Disaster Recovery is not only about backup, but it’s also about understanding under what circumstances your business might be interrupted and planning accordingly. If all your data is lost due to a cybercriminal or hardware failure, how long would it take to recover? What hardware would you recover onto? Also consider other events such as an Internet outage, or core equipment failure. Consider the three or four most likely scenarios and develop a recovery plan for each. By understanding what circumstances could disrupt your business you plan for these and make effective risk management decisions.

Key Disaster Recovery Considerations

Recovery Point Objective (RPO): What is the maximum age of files that you can restore to resume normal business operations. I.e. if your latest backup was a week old, is that too old?

Recovery Time Objective (RTO): What is the maximum time you can sustain the business to be down while your systems are being recovered?

Business Continuity

How do you prevent your business from being impacted at all? Business Continuity looks at putting systems and processes in place that would allow your business to continue uninterrupted even when a failure occurs. As an example, with the prevalent use of online Cloud-based technologies, Internet access has become a key Business Continuity discussion. If an Internet outage would severely impact your business, look at redundant firewalls and dual Internet feeds. Keeping your business running is what’s important.

Backup, disaster recovery and business continuity work together to keep your business running at a functional level in the event of a disaster. With a simple backup or disaster recovery solution, your return to operations could be measured in weeks or days. As you progress towards business continuity, that time should reduce to minutes or seconds. Understand your business's data and operations in order to implement a complete and effective business continuity plan.

Work smarter not harder by improving productivity in your business

Matthew.Mcgrath@yorb.tech (Matthew McGrath) — Thu, 15 Aug 2019 00:44:07 GMT

Improving productivity is a priority for most businesses, work smarter not harder. New technologies from Microsoft, Google, Amazon and many others has allowed smaller businesses to achieve the same technology gains that enterprises have been investing in for many years. But investing in technology to improve business efficiencies and reduce human error can have high upfront costs.

Technology can make decision making quicker and easier. Although getting the most out of your productivity investments depends on how technology is integrated into your business. If done properly, you not only simplify work for your staff but also improve your client experience.

Workflow automation is one example of a technology that over the past few years has become more accessible.

What is Workflow Automation?

Workflow automation uses technology to automate the flow of data in business processes and replaces manual work with rule-based logic. When a workflow is managed by a system, it reduces processing time and manual errors while increasing efficiency and productivity. It allows you to spend more time on actual work and less time on the processes that support them.

“The first rule of any technology used in a business is that automation applied to an efficient operation will magnify the efficiency. The second is that automation applied to an inefficient operation will magnify the inefficiency.”

- Bill Gates

Many business systems can build and operate workflows within their own boundaries. However, building a workflow between multiple systems has historically required the development of EDI’s (Electronic Data Interchange) or integration with existing API’s (Application Programming Interface). This is one area where technology is moving rapidly, enabling workflows to cross more easily between systems.

When you should consider Workflow Automation

Automation is the most efficient way to manage and achieve tasks that can produce consistent and accurate results every time. When you have a repetitive series of tasks that are managed with paper files, spreadsheets or e-mail you should be looking at automation. By creating workflows, you streamline the processes and remove the risk of human error.

3 Benefits of Workflow Automation

1. Fewer Errors

Even a well-managed business can’t escape human errors. Human errors can never be eliminated in the workforce, but we help make them more avoidable. By automating repetitive processes and tasks you are giving employees time back to focus on the work they are trained to do and let the workflows can handle the repetitive tasks.

2. Productivity

Saving time leads to increased productivity. By spending less time doing repetitive tasks, employees can use their time elsewhere.

3. Client Engagement

By establishing processes and protocols you create consistency for your employees which allows for better client experiences. Looking to see what can be automated, or where in the process your employees can focus less on internal tasks and administration, means they have more time and energy to devote to outward-facing activities.

The transformation of the modern workplace is a positive change to the way people work. By understanding your business and employee needs you implement the right technologies and improve business productivity. In the long-term, it reduces risk and errors, saves time, increases productivity and creates accountability within your team.

Security Alert Increased level of SPAM

Matthew.Mcgrath@yorb.tech (Matthew McGrath) — Thu, 25 Jul 2019 00:43:21 GMT

In the last few weeks, we have been seeing an increased level of SPAM reaching user inboxes. These emails appear to be from trusted companies such as Microsoft, Office 365, and more.

They are designed to trick you into giving up sensitive information such as login details and credit card numbers. Hackers know that we are in a hurry when we read our mail and that we are more likely to click on links that don’t call attention to themselves.

Ensuring your team is educated, vigilant and alert to SPAM emails will help to mitigate them.

Identifying SPAM

Hover over the link

When you hover over a link within the suspicious email, a popup will show you where it leads. Do not click on the link if it does not match the company that is supposed to have sent the message.

Request for sensitive information

Hackers will send you replicated websites to try and trick you into giving up your login information or credit card details

Cybersquatting

Beware of lookalike URL’s as they are designed to trick you, such as www.g00gle.com or www.hotmai1l.com

Train your inbox

When an unsolicited email makes an appearance in your inbox, mark it as spam before deleting it. This is how the automatic spam filters learn to identify spam and filter it out.

Generic salutations

Beware of impersonal greetings such as “Dear Customer”.

The ‘Verify your account’

email Always check the URL and then question why you are being asked to verify your account.

Trust your instincts

If an email just doesn’t look right, do not click on the bait. Mark as SPAM and delete it.

SPAM is a common problem in every business, but by educating your team on how to detect SPAM you can drastically reduce the amount of unwanted mail in your inboxes.

If you have recently clicked a suspicious link, or feel that you have been compromised get in touch with us immediately on 0800 600 606 or at support@yorb.tech

- The Yorb Team

End of Life for Windows 7

Matthew.Mcgrath@yorb.tech (Matthew McGrath) — Thu, 04 Jul 2019 00:42:52 GMT

After 10 years, support for Microsoft Windows 7 (typically installed on lap-tops or desktop devices) is coming to an end on 14 January 2020. There’s an opportunity now to be proactive about what’s next. Changes and upgrades in technology are inevitable, and there’s never been a better time to start putting in motion the things you need to do to shift your business into a modern workplace.

When does Windows 7 support end?

Windows 7 End of Life is 14th January 2020. Up until that date Windows 7 is currently in an ‘extended support’ phase.

What does this mean?

When Windows 7 reaches its End of Life (EOL) on 14th January 2020, Microsoft will stop technical support for any issues or releasing updates and patches for the operating system. However, that doesn’t mean Windows 7 will stop working on that day – you’ll still be able to use Windows 7 for as long as you want. But just because you can continue to use Windows 7, doesn’t mean you should.

The biggest issue with continuing to use Windows 7 is that it won't be patched for any new viruses or security problems once it enters End of Life on 14th January, and this leaves you extremely vulnerable to any emerging threats.

What should I do if my business is on Windows 7?

In the first instance, we would suggest that you contact a certified Microsoft partner, such as Yorb (Gold Certified), to discuss your business requirements and what this means for your current Windows 7 devices.

If you are an existing Yorb client with either an AV & Reporting, OneCare or TotalCare Managed service we already have full visibility of your installed base of software and will be proactively contacting you to discuss what your options are based upon your business requirements.

How do I know if I have Windows 7?

Again, if you are an existing Yorb client with either an AV & Reporting, OneCare or TotalCare Managed service we know your installed base of software and will be proactively contacting you well in advance of January 2020 to discuss your options.

If you are not on one of these managed services with Yorb you can easily check what version of Windows you have by clicking the windows button ( windows icon ) concurrently with the letter R. When a command box appears type in ‘winver’ and press enter. Examples below:

A box will appear (as above) stating what version of Windows you have

If in doubt, or if you need help with this, please feel free to call the Yorb Support Desk on 0800 600 606.

What next?

Our team at Yorb can help you make the right decision for your business. Whether it’s upgrading to Windows 10 from Windows 7 on the same device, upgrading your physical devices altogether, taking advantage of some of the enhanced security features in Windows 10, or seamless integration into Office 365 and the associated applications available to you, we can help make your transition easy.

Please contact your client manager, email us at W7support@yorb.tech , or call our Support Centre on 0800 600 606.

Top 3 Cyber Threats we see

Matthew.Mcgrath@yorb.tech (Matthew McGrath) — Tue, 25 Jun 2019 00:41:57 GMT

These cyber-threats are not new, but they are becoming more frequent. With so much of our business in the cloud, geographic boundaries are no longer a barrier for cybercriminals. We need to raise the cybersecurity conversation and not just with our users and IT support team, but with Executives and Boards. Like Health and Safety, Cybersecurity is a very real risk with the potential to affect the viability of your business and the livelihood of your staff.

Security is not something that can be achieved in isolation using larger locks (anti-virus and firewalls). Cyber Security needs a holistic companywide approach.

Top 3 cyber threats that we see most often

Phishing Attack

A form of identity theft where a hacker uses legitimate e-mail to trick users into giving out personal information. Frequent examples are credit card numbers or passwords.

Social Engineering

Social Engineering attacks use information about you or current events to enhance a hacker’s chance of success. Once they have established trust, they will request changes to bank account numbers or the payment of outstanding invoices to a different account.

Ransomware

Hackers will attempt to attempt to install software on your computer network that prevents users from accessing or using their data. They will then charge a ransom for recovery of said data.

To feel confident in today’s threat landscape, you need a multi-faceted approach that includes a security framework, staff training, data protection and more. If you’d like to learn more about how to secure your business, contact Yorb.

How to Avoid SPAM

Matthew.Mcgrath@yorb.tech (Matthew McGrath) — Mon, 10 Jun 2019 00:41:22 GMT

SPAM is more than just a nuisance, it can affect your productivity and introduce security risks, enabling cybercriminals to steal information, money or generally wreak havoc on your network. But can you stop SPAM altogether? The chances are small, and you’ll likely never achieve a zero-Spam inbox, especially as a business owner. But there are ways to drastically reduce the burden.

Tips to help stop Spam from infiltrating your businesses email.

Spam Filters. A SPAM filter will automatically spot SPAM or profanities and send it straight to your “Junk Inbox”. Filters are often layered in nature; the best defence encompasses multiple solutions.
Generic Salutations. Beware of impersonal greetings like “Dear Customer”.
Trust your instincts. If an email just doesn’t look right, don’t click the bait. Delete it.
Do NOT respond to a Spam email . When you respond to a message, you advise the spammers that they have a ‘live’ e-mail address and will continue to send your mail.
Remove email addresses from your website. Hackers will search through websites for company email address.
Requests for Sensitive Information. Hackers will send you replicated websites to try and trick you into giving up your login information or credit card details.
Beware of lookalike URL’s they are designed to trick you, such as www.g00gle.com or www.hotmai1l.com.
‘Verify your account’ email. Always check the URL and then question why you are being asked to verify an account.
Block Email Senders. Once you have identified a SPAM email, block the sender from contacting you again.

Yorb can help with implementing a safer environment for your business. Give us a call today 0800 600 606

Cyber Security is more than a firewall

Matthew.Mcgrath@yorb.tech (Matthew McGrath) — Thu, 06 Jun 2019 00:40:49 GMT

New Zealand has embraced digital technologies faster than many other countries, we’ve raced to the Cloud, per capita we are one of the highest uses of Microsoft Office 365 and Google Suite. But our security has not adapted to this modern environment at the same rate as we have embraced it. The way we do business has changed, we moved online, started sharing our lives on Social Media, putting our critical business data in the Cloud and began working from our cars, homes, and hotels.

Just as cyberspace has no borders, neither does cybercrime. Cyber-attacks are on the rise and New Zealand businesses are a primary target. In 2017 New Zealanders lost over NZ$177 million to cybercrime.

Security is not something that can be achieved in isolation using larger locks (anti-virus and firewalls). Cybersecurity needs a holistic companywide approach.

People

Human error has become a major weak point; one that is easily exploited by cybercriminals. It is vital that businesses have some form of cyber security training in place to educate their employees on the importance of protecting sensitive information and what malicious threats to look out for.

Process

Are your internal business processes secure, how do you verify a supplier request to change their bank account details? If you do not have robust processes to verify and authorise requests they can be easily exploited. Ensuring you have processes that are detailed, known and understood by all stakeholders is critical.

Technology

No tool by itself can effectively secure your data. Manage your people and technology with multiple layers of protection such as firewalls, anti-virus protection, and mobile device management.

At Yorb we take security seriously within our own business as well as our clients. To feel confident in today’s threat landscape, you need a multi-faceted approach that also includes a security framework, staff training, data protection and more. Only by increasing security awareness across the entire business can we adequately address the risks. Contact us to learn more

Cybercrime is a Global Problem

Matthew.Mcgrath@yorb.tech (Matthew McGrath) — Thu, 06 Jun 2019 00:39:53 GMT

Did you know?

Hackers have typically compromised a network for 146 days before anyone notices. In the case of the Marriott Hotel breach detected in 2018, the attackers had been in the network for over 1000 days before discovery.

Most of these breaches occur through credential theft due to users:

using the same password for multiple systems. E.g. Facebook, Internet banking, Dropbox.
falling victim to phishing attacks that encourage users to enter their passwords on fake websites.
installing unsafe software onto their systems or signing up to services that have not been appropriately vetted.

In 2017 a Lithuanian man was arrested for defrauding two major international businesses for over USD$100 million. Via a phishing attack, he was able to pose as an Asian manufacturer, forging invoices and requesting payment. The companies were later identified as Google and Facebook.1

As a global scourge, cybercrime ranks third behind government corruption and narcotics trafficking in terms of dollar value.

Reference

1. https://www.nytimes.com/2019/03/25/business/facebook-google-wire-fraud.html

ComputerCare Rebrands to Yorb

Matthew.Mcgrath@yorb.tech (Matthew McGrath) — Wed, 27 Feb 2019 23:39:01 GMT

After 28 years, ComputerCare, a leading IT provider for regional businesses within New Zealand, has rebranded to Yorb.

“We have simply outgrown the original brand” said Managing Director Wayne Masters. “People on hearing the name ComputerCare assume we are a computer service company when in fact that is only a very small part of what we now do for our clients”.

The rebrand reflects both the evolution of the business as well as the vision for the future.

Since opening in 1990, ComputerCare has grown from one office to four throughout the North Island. It has transformed from computer sales and service to a multi-faceted operation best suited to the technology demands of a modern business. “We take pride in our people and are continually investing in them to ensure our range of services meet the expectations of our clients. For us, we aren’t the hero of our story, our clients are”

Yorb aims to help businesses see technology as an enabler to solve problems such as Modern Workplace, Cloud, Productivity, Security, Business Intelligence, Digital Infrastructure, Digital Marketing and Business Continuity.

The Yorb logo brings in a new clean modern visual identity, characterising the business as innovative, personable, helpful and upbeat.

“We wanted to take the opportunity to take our business and focus more on the client, and the conversation to become about them, their pain points, where they are going and how we could work with them to improve their business” says Wayne.

Y orb’s emphasis on providing unique technology solutions is reflected in the business’s new tagline, “Business defined technology”.

“Relationships are really important to us, and generally caring about clients and their business. When we decided to rebrand, it was important that we retained the care aspect and really wanted to bring that through in our brand and messaging.”

Head over to www.yorb.tech to learn more about Yorb, their team and how Yorb can help your business embrace technology.

Computer security day

Matthew.Mcgrath@yorb.tech (Matthew McGrath) — Thu, 29 Nov 2018 23:37:35 GMT

Today is Computer Security Day. The unofficial holiday that has been encouraging people to secure their computers and their personal information since 1988.

These days, electronic devices such as smartphones, tablets, and computers make up an important component of our everyday lives. While communication has become easier and more efficient than ever before, these technologies have brought with them new concerns about privacy and security.

As Christmas is fast approaching, cyber grinches are ramping up their efforts to steal your personal information. But don’t let yourself be a victim. We’ve compiled a list of four tips that will help keep you safe during your online shopping activities.

Check your Anti-Virus software is activated

Before you begin shopping online, double-check that your anti-virus software is running in the background. Software’s that includes anti-phishing and firewall protection will help to minimise the risk of cyber crooks stealing your sensitive information.

Avoid using weak passwords

Passwords secure all your sensitive information including email and online accounts. Having strong passwords play an essential role in protecting yourself.

Avoid using obvious passwords such as ‘ YourName123 ’ or date of births. Aim for longer passphrases such as ‘ The cow jumped over the moon ’. And never write your password down on paper and never share your password with anyone.

Don’t shop using free public Wi-Fi hotspots

You might find a hard-to-get item online and be tempted to purchase it right away. However, if your browsing through a public Wi-Fi hotspot, chances are your personal data could get intercepted by a hacker.

These public wireless networks are often unsecured and prime targets for hackers. Instead, wait until you get home or in an area with a secure internet connection.

Do not disclose your travel plans on social media.

You may feel tempted to express your excitement through social media about your travel plans for the summer. But you might want to reconsider. You never know who might see your posts and use that information to plan a break-in at your place while you’re away.

Microsoft update: Personalised Training and Tips to your Inbox

Matthew.Mcgrath@yorb.tech (Matthew McGrath) — Sun, 11 Nov 2018 23:36:45 GMT

On November 29, 2018, Microsoft is introducing for all Microsoft 365 and Office 365 users, helpful product training and tips for services in their subscriptions via email.

How does this affect me?

After the 29 November, email communications will be enabled-by-default for your businesses users, allowing Microsoft to provide product training and tips aimed at helping you increase your productivity and to maximize your utilization of Microsoft products and services you use most. Users will only receive emails regarding services that they have been enabled for.

This is a Microsoft update and will be on-by-default for all Office 365 and Microsoft 365 users on November 29, 2018.

What do I need to do to prepare for this change?

If you want your users to receive product training and tips that are tailored to their services in your subscription, then there’s nothing you need to do to prepare for this change.

I f you do not want Microsoft to send product training and tips to your end users, we can disable this feature. If you wish to disable this service for your users between now and November 29, 2018, and your settings will be honored.

If you would like this feature disabled, contact us on 0800 600 606 or email our Support Centre at support@yorb.tech and we will get

Microsoft cloud agreement

Matthew.Mcgrath@yorb.tech (Matthew McGrath) — Sun, 28 Oct 2018 23:36:02 GMT

This Microsoft Cloud Agreement is entered into between the entity you represent, or, if you do not designate an entity in connection with a Subscription purchase or renewal, you individually (“Customer”), and Microsoft Regional Sales Corporation (“Microsoft”). It consists of the terms and conditions below, Use Rights, SLA, and all documents referenced within those documents (together, the “agreement”). It is effective on the date that your Reseller provisions your Subscription. Key terms are defined in Section 10.

1. Grants, rights and terms.

All rights granted under this agreement are non-exclusive and non-transferable and apply as long as neither Customer nor any of its Affiliates is in material breach of this agreement.

a. Software. Upon acceptance of each order, Microsoft grants Customer a limited right to use the Software in the quantities ordered.

(i) Use Rights. The Use Rights in effect when Customer orders Software will apply to Customer’s use of the version of the Software that is current at the time. For future versions and new Software, the Use Rights in effect when those versions and Software are first released will apply. Changes Microsoft makes to the Use Rights for a particular version will not apply unless Customer chooses to have those changes apply.

(ii) Temporary and perpetual licenses. Licenses available on a subscription basis are temporary. For all other licenses, the right to use Software becomes perpetual upon payment in full.

b. Online Services. Customer may use the Online Services as provided in this agreement.

(i) Online Services Terms. The Online Services Terms in effect when Customer orders or renews a subscription to an Online Service will apply for the applicable subscription term. For Online Services that are billed periodically based on consumption, the Online Services Terms current at the start of each billing period will apply to usage during that period.

(ii) Suspension. Microsoft may suspend use of an Online Service during Customer’s violation of the Acceptable Use Policy or failure to respond to a claim of alleged infringement. Microsoft will give Customer notice before suspending an Online Service when reasonable.

(iii) End Users. Customer controls access by End Users, and is responsible for their use of the Product in accordance with this agreement. For example, Customer will ensure End Users comply with the Acceptable Use Policy.

(iv) Customer Data. Customer is solely responsible for the content of all Customer Data. Customer will secure and maintain all rights in Customer Data necessary for Microsoft to provide the Online Services to Customer without violating the rights of any third party or otherwise obligating Microsoft to Customer or to any third party. Microsoft does not and will not assume any obligations with respect to Customer Data or to Customer’s use of the Product other than as expressly set forth in this agreement or as required by applicable law.

(v) Responsibility for your accounts. The customer is responsible for maintaining the confidentiality of any non-public authentication credentials associated with Customer’s use of the Online Services. Customer must promptly notify customer support about any possible misuse of Customer’s accounts or authentication credentials or any security incident related to the Online Services.

c. License transfers. License transfers are not permitted, except that Customer may transfer only fully-paid perpetual licenses to (1) an Affiliate or (2) a third party, solely in connection with the transfer of hardware or employees to whom the licenses have been assigned to the third party as part of (a) a divestiture of all or part of an Affiliate or (b) a merger involving Customer or an Affiliate. Upon such transfer, Customer and its Affiliates must uninstall and discontinue using the licensed Product and render any copies unusable. Attempted license transfers that do not comply with this agreement are void.

d. Reservation of rights. Products are protected by copyright and other intellectual property rights laws and international treaties. Microsoft reserves all rights not expressly granted in this agreement. No rights will be granted or implied by waiver or estoppel. Rights to access or use Software on a device do not give Customer any right to implement Microsoft patents or other Microsoft intellectual property in the device itself or in any other software or devices.

e. Restrictions. Customer may use the Product only in accordance with this agreement. Customer may not (and is not licensed to): (1) reverse engineer, decompile or disassemble any Product or Fix, or attempt to do so; (2) install or use non-Microsoft software or technology in any way that would subject Microsoft’s intellectual property or technology to any other license terms; or (3) work around any technical limitations in a Product or Fix or restrictions in Product documentation. Customer may not disable, tamper with, or otherwise attempt to circumvent any billing mechanism that meters Customer’s use of the Online Services. Except as expressly permitted in this agreement or Product documentation, Customer may not distribute, sublicense, rent, lease, lend, resell or transfer and Products, in whole or in part, or use them to offer hosting services to a third party.

f. Preview releases. Microsoft may make Previews available. Previews are provided “as-is,” “with all faults,” and “as-available,” and are excluded from the SLA and all limited warranties provided in this agreement. Previews may not be covered by customer support. Previews may be subject to reduced or different security, compliance, and privacy commitments, as further explained in the Online Services Terms and any additional notices provided with the Preview. Microsoft may change or discontinue Previews at any time without notice. Microsoft also may choose not to release a Preview into “General Availability.”

g. Verifying compliance for Products.

(i) Right to verify compliance. Customer must keep records relating to all use and distribution of Products by Customer and its Affiliates. Microsoft has the right, at its expense, to verify compliance with the Products’ license terms. Customer must promptly provide any information reasonably requested by the independent auditors retained by Microsoft in furtherance of the verification, including access to systems running the Products and evidence of licenses for Products that Customer hosts, sublicenses, or distributes to third parties. Customer agrees to complete Microsoft’s self-audit process, which Microsoft may request as an alternative to a third party audit.

(ii) Remedies for non-compliance. If verification or self-audit reveals any unlicensed use of Products, then within 30 days (1) Customer must order sufficient licenses to cover its use, and (2) if unlicensed use is 5% or more, Customer must reimburse Microsoft for the costs Microsoft incurred in verification and acquire the necessary additional licenses at 125% of the price, based on the then-current price last and customer price level. The unlicensed use percentage is based on the total number of licenses purchased for current use compared to the actual installed base. If there is no unlicensed use, Microsoft will not subject Customer to another verification for at least one year. By exercising the rights and procedures described above, Microsoft does not waive its rights to enforce this agreement or to protect its intellectual property by any other legal means.

(iii) Verification process. Microsoft will notify Customer at least 30 days in advance of its intent to verify Customers’ compliance with the license terms for the Products Customer and its Affiliates use or distribute. Microsoft will engage an independent auditor, which will be subject to a confidentiality obligation. Any information collected in the self-audit will be used solely for purposes of determining compliance. This verification will take place during normal business hours and in a manner that does not unreasonably interfere with Customer’s operations.

2. Subscriptions, ordering.

a. Choosing a Reseller. Customer must choose and maintain a Reseller authorized within its region. If Microsoft or Reseller chooses to discontinue doing business with each other, Customer must choose a replacement Reseller or purchase a Subscription directly from Microsoft, which may require Customer to accept different terms.

b. Available Subscription offers. The Subscription offers available to Customer will be established by its Reseller and generally can be categorized as one or a combination of the following:

(i) Online Services Commitment Offering. Customer commits in advance to purchase a specific quantity of Online Services for use during a Term and to pay upfront or on a periodic basis for continued use of the Online Service.

(ii) Consumption Offering (also called Pay-As-You-Go). Customer pays based on actual usage with no upfront commitment.

(iii) Limited Offering. Customer receives a limited quantity of Online Services for a limited term without charge (for example, a free trial) or as part of another Microsoft offering (for example, MSDN). Provisions in this agreement with respect to the SLA and data retention may not apply.

(iv) Software Commitment Offering. Customer commits in advance to purchase a specific quantity of Software for use during a Term and to pay upfront or on a periodic basis for continued use of the Software.

c. Ordering.

(i) Orders must be placed through Customer’s designated Reseller. Customer may place orders for its Affiliates under this agreement and grant its Affiliates administrative rights to manage the Subscription, but, Affiliates may not place orders under this agreement. Customer also may assign the rights granted under Section 1.a and 1.b to a third party for use by that third party in Customer’s internal business. If Customer grants any rights to Affiliates or third parties with respect to Software or Customer’s Subscription, such Affiliates or third parties will be bound by this agreement and Customer agrees to be jointly and severally liable for any actions of such Affiliates or third parties related to their use of the Products.

(ii) Customer’s Reseller may permit Customer to modify the quantity of Online Services ordered during the Term of a Subscription. Additional quantities of Online Services added to a Subscription will expire at the end of that Subscription.

d. Pricing and payment. Prices for each Product and any terms and conditions for invoicing and payment will be established by Customer’s Reseller.

e. Renewal.

(i) Upon renewal of a Subscription, Customer may be required to sign a new agreement, a supplemental agreement or an amendment to this agreement.

(ii) Customer’s Subscription will automatically renew unless Customer provides its Reseller with notice of its intent not to renew prior to the expiration of the Term.

f. Eligibility for Academic, Government and Nonprofit versions. Customer agrees that if it is purchasing an academic, government or nonprofit offer, Customer meets the respective eligibility requirements listed at the following sites:

(i) For academic offers, the requirements for educational institutions (including administrative offices or boards of education, public libraries, or public museums) listed at http://go.microsoft.com/academic;

(ii) For government offers, the requirements listed at http://go.microsoft.com/government; and

(iii) For nonprofit offers, the requirements listed at http://go.microsoft.com/nonprofit .

Microsoft reserves the right to verify eligibility at any time and suspend the Online Service if the eligibility requirements are not met.

g. Taxes. The parties are not liable for any of the taxes of the other party that the other party is legally obligated to pay and which are incurred or arise in connection with or related to the transactions contemplated under this agreement, and all such taxes will be the financial responsibility of the party who is obligated by operation of law to pay such tax.

3. Term, termination.

a. Agreement term and termination. This agreement will remain in effect until the expiration or termination of Customer’s Subscription, whichever is earliest. Customer may terminate this agreement at any time by contacting its Reseller. The expiration or termination of this agreement will only terminate Customer’s right to place new orders for additional Products under this agreement.

b. Termination for cause. If either party breaches this Agreement, the other party may terminate the breached agreement (in whole or in part, including orders) upon notice. If the breach is curable within 30 days, then the terminating party must provide 30 days’ notice to the breaching party and an opportunity to cure the breach.

c. Cancel a Subscription. Customer’s Reseller will establish the terms and conditions, if any, upon which Customer may cancel a Subscription.

d. To the extent necessary to implement the termination provisions of this agreement, both parties waive any rights they have, or obligation that they may have, now or in the future under any applicable law or regulation, to request or obtain the approval, order, decision or judgment of any court to terminate this agreement.

4. Security, privacy, and data protection.

a. Reseller Administrator Access and Customer Data. Customer acknowledges and agrees that

(i) once Customer has chosen a Reseller, that Reseller will be the primary administrator of the Online Services for the Term and will have administrative privileges and access to Customer Data, however, Customer may request additional administrator privileges from its Reseller;

(ii) Customer can, at its sole discretion and at any time during the Term, terminate its Reseller’s administrative privileges;

(iii) Reseller’s privacy practices with respect to Customer Data or any services provided by Reseller are subject to the terms of Customer’s agreement with its Reseller and may differ from Microsoft’s privacy practices; and

(iv) Reseller may collect, use, transfer, disclose, and otherwise process Customer Data, including personal data. Customer consents to Microsoft providing Reseller with Customer Data and information that Customer provides to Microsoft for purposes of ordering, provisioning and administering the Online Services.

b. Customer consents to the processing of personal information by Microsoft and its agents to facilitate the subject matter of this agreement. Customer may choose to provide personal information to Microsoft on behalf of third parties (including your contacts, resellers, distributors, administrators, and employees) as part of this agreement. Customer will obtain all required consents from third parties under applicable privacy and data protection laws before providing personal information to Microsoft.

c. Additional privacy and security details are in the Online Services Terms. The commitments made in the Online Services Terms only apply to the Online Services purchased under this agreement and not to any services or products provided by a Reseller. If Customer uses software or services that are hosted by a Reseller, that use will be subject to Reseller’s privacy practices, which may differ from Microsoft’s.

d. As and to the extent required by law, Customer shall notify the individual users of the Online Services that their data may be processed for the purpose of disclosing it to law enforcement or other governmental authorities as directed by Reseller or as required by law, and Customer shall obtain the users’ consent to the same.

e. Customer appoints Reseller as its agent for purposes of interfacing with and providing instructions to Microsoft for purposes of this Section 4.

5. Warranties.

a. Limited warranty.

(i) Software . Microsoft warrants that each version of the Software will perform substantially as described in the applicable Product documentation for one year from the date Customer is first licensed for that version. If it does not, and Customer notifies Microsoft within the warranty term, then Microsoft will, at its option, (1) return the price Customer paid for the Software license or (2) repair or replace the Software.

(ii) Online Services . Microsoft warrants that each Online Service will perform in accordance with the applicable SLA during Customer’s use. Customer’s remedies for breach of this warranty are in the SLA. The remedies above are Customer’s sole remedies for breach of the warranties in this section. Customer waives any breach of warranty claims not made during the warranty period.

b. Exclusions. The warranties in this agreement do not apply to problems caused by accident, abuse or use inconsistent with this agreement, including failure to meet minimum system requirements. These warranties do not apply to free or trial products, Previews, Limited Offerings, or to components of Products that Customer is permitted to redistribute.

c. Disclaimer. Except for the limited warranties above, Microsoft provides no warranties or conditions for Products and disclaims any other express, implied, or statutory warranties for Products, including warranties of quality, title, non-infringement, merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose.

6. Defense of third party claims.

The parties will defend each other against the third-party claims described in this section and will pay the amount of any resulting adverse final judgment or approved settlement, but only if the defending party is promptly notified in writing of the claim and has the right to control the defense and any settlement of it. The party being defended must provide the defending party with all requested assistance, information, and authority. The defending party will reimburse the other party for reasonable out-of-pocket expenses it incurs in providing assistance. This section describes the parties’ sole remedies and entire liability for such claims.

a. By Microsoft. Microsoft will defend Customer against any third-party claim to the extent it alleges that a Product or Fix made available by Microsoft for a fee and used within the scope of the license granted under this agreement (unmodified from the form provided by Microsoft and not combined with anything else), misappropriates a trade secret or directly infringes a patent, copyright, trademark or other proprietary right of a third party. If Microsoft is unable to resolve a claim of infringement under commercially reasonable terms, it may, as its option, either:

(1) modify or replace the Product or fix with a functional equivalent; or

(2) terminate Customer’s license and refund any prepaid license fees (less depreciation on a five-year, straight-line basis) for perpetual licenses and any amount paid for Online Services for any usage period after the termination date. Microsoft will not be liable for any claims or damages due to Customer’s continued use of a Product or Fix after being notified to stop due to a thirdparty claim.

b. By Customer. To the extent permitted by applicable law, Customer will defend Microsoft against any third-party claim to the extent it alleges that:

(1) any Customer Data or nonMicrosoft software hosted in an Online Service by Microsoft on Customer’s behalf misappropriates a trade secret or directly infringes a patent, copyright, trademark, or other proprietary right of a third party; or

(2) Customer’s use of any Product or Fix, alone or in combination with anything else, violates the law or harms a third party.

7. Limitation of liability.

For each Product, each party’s maximum, aggregate liability to the other under this agreement is limited to direct damages finally awarded in an amount not to exceed the amounts Customer was required to pay for the applicable Products during the term of this agreement, subject to the following:

a. Online Services. For Online Services, Microsoft’s maximum liability to Customer for any incident giving rise to a claim will not exceed the amount Customer paid for the Online Service during the 12 months before the incident; provided that in no event will Microsoft’s aggregate liability for any Online Service exceed the amount paid for that Online Service during the Subscription.

b. Free Products and distributable code. For Products provided free of charge and code that Customer is authorized to redistribute to third parties without separate payment to Microsoft, Microsoft’s liability is limited to direct damages finally awarded up to US$5,000.

c. Exclusions. In no event will either party be liable for loss of revenue or indirect, special, incidental, consequential, punitive, or exemplary damages, or damages for loss of use, lost profits, revenues, business interruption, or loss of business information, however caused or on any theory of liability.

d. Exceptions. The limits of liability in this section apply to the fullest extent permitted by applicable law, but do not apply to: (1) the parties' obligations under section 6; or (2) violation of the other's intellectual property rights.

8. Support and Professional Services.

Customer’s Reseller will provide details on support services available for Products purchased under this agreement. Support services may be performed by Reseller or its designee, which in some cases may be Microsoft. If Customer purchases Professional Services under this agreement, the performance of those Professional Services will be subject to the terms and conditions in the Use Rights.

9. Miscellaneous.

a. Notices. You must send notices by mail, return receipt requested, to the address below.

You agree to receive electronic notices from us, which will be sent by email to the account administrator(s) named for your Subscription. Notices are effective on the date on the return receipt or, for email, when sent. You are responsible for ensuring that the email address for the account administrator(s) named for your Subscription is accurate and current. Any email notice that we send to that email address will be effective when sent, whether or not you actually receive the email.

b. Assignment. You may not assign this agreement either in whole or in part. Microsoft may transfer this agreement without your consent, but only to one of Microsoft’s Affiliates. Any prohibited assignment is void.

c. Severability. If any part of this agreement is held unenforceable, the rest remains in full force and effect.

d. Waiver. Failure to enforce any provision of this agreement will not constitute a waiver.

e. No agency. This agreement does not create an agency, partnership, or joint venture.

f. No third-party beneficiaries. There are no third-party beneficiaries to this agreement.

g. Use of contractors. Microsoft may use contractors to perform services, but will be responsible for their performance, subject to the terms of this agreement.

h. Microsoft as an independent contractor. The parties are independent contractors. Customer and Microsoft each may develop products independently without using the other’s confidential information.

i. Agreement not exclusive. Customer is free to enter into agreements to license, use or promote non-Microsoft products or services.

j. Applicable law and venue. This agreement is governed by Washington law, without regard to its conflict of laws principles. Subject to sections (i) and (ii) below, if Microsoft brings an action to enforce this agreement, Microsoft will bring it in the jurisdiction where Customer has its headquarters. If Customer brings an action to enforce this agreement, Customer will bring it in the State of Washington, U.S.A. This choice of jurisdiction does not prevent either party from seeking injunctive relief with respect to a violation of intellectual property rights.

(i) If Customer’s principal place of business is in Brunei, Malaysia or Singapore, Customer consents to the non-exclusive jurisdiction of the Singapore courts.

(ii) If Customer’s principal place of business is in Bangladesh, Cambodia, India, Indonesia, Macau SAR, the People's Republic of China, Sri Lanka, Thailand, The Philippines, or Vietnam, any dispute arising out of or in connection with this agreement, including any question regarding its existence, validity or termination, shall be referred to and finally resolved by arbitration in Singapore in accordance with the Arbitration Rules of the Singapore International Arbitration Centre (“SIAC”), which rules are deemed to be incorporated by reference into this subsection. The Tribunal shall consist of one arbitrator to be appointed by the Chairman of SIAC. The language of the arbitration shall be English. The decision of the arbitrator shall be final, binding and incontestable and may be used as a basis for judgment thereon in the above-named countries or elsewhere. To the maximum extent permitted by applicable law, the parties waive their right to any form of appeal or other similar recourse to a court of law. For the purpose of this agreement only, the People's Republic of China does not include Hong Kong SAR, Macau SAR and Taiwan.

k. Entire agreement. This agreement is the entire agreement concerning its subject matter and supersedes any prior or concurrent communications. In the case of a conflict between any documents in this agreement that is not expressly resolved in those documents, their terms will control in the following order of descending priority: (1) this agreement, (2) the Product Terms, (3) the Online Services Terms, and (4) any other documents in this agreement.

l. Survival. All provisions survive termination of this agreement except those requiring performance only during the term of the agreement.

m. U.S. export jurisdiction. Products are subject to U.S. export jurisdiction. Customer must comply with all applicable international and national laws, including the U.S. Export Administration Regulations, the International Traffic in Arms Regulations, and end-user, enduse and destination restrictions issued by U.S. and other governments related to Microsoft products, services, and technologies.

n. Force majeure. Neither party will be liable for any failure in performance due to causes beyond that party’s reasonable control (such as fire, explosion, power blackout, earthquake, flood, severe storms, strike, embargo, labor disputes, acts of civil or military authority, war, terrorism (including cyber terrorism), acts of God, acts or omissions of Internet traffic carriers, actions or omissions of regulatory or governmental bodies (including the passage of laws or regulations or other acts of government that impact the delivery of Online Services)). This Section will not, however, apply to your payment obligations under this agreement.

o. Contracting authority. If you are an individual accepting these terms on behalf of an entity, you represent that you have the legal authority to enter into this agreement on that entity’s behalf.

p. Government customers should consult with Microsoft. Government customers should consult with Microsoft prior to acceptance. If Customer is a government customer, before accepting this agreement, Customer should consult with its Microsoft representative to assure full compliance with local laws and governmental procurement processes.

q. Consumer remedies. The following provision is only applicable to customers in Australia: Notwithstanding anything in this agreement, consumers may have the benefit of certain, rights or remedies pursuant to the Competition and Consumer Act 2010 (Cth) and similar state and territory laws in Australia in respect of which liability may not be excluded. If so, then to the maximum extent permitted by law, such liability is limited, at Microsoft’s option, in the case of goods to either (1) replacement of the goods or (2) correction of defects in the goods, and in the case of services to either (1) resupply of the services or (2) the cost of the resupply of the services. Australian law requires Microsoft to notify consumer purchasers of Microsoft goods that: “Microsoft’s goods come with guarantees that cannot be excluded under the Australian Consumer Law. Customer is entitled to a replacement or refund for a major failure and compensation for any other reasonably foreseeable loss or damage. Customer is also entitled to have the goods repaired or replaced if the goods fail to be of acceptable quality and the failure does not amount to a major failure.”

r. Statutory liability. The following provision is only applicable to customers in New Zealand.

(i) Business. Where Microsoft acts as a “supplier” (as that term is defined in the Consumer Guarantees Act 1993 (“CGA”)) of a Product, Customer confirms that the Product provided by Microsoft under this agreement is acquired for the purposes of a business (as that term is defined in the CGA) and that the CGA does not apply to the Product supplied by Microsoft.

(ii) Consumers. Nothing in this agreement is intended to limit the rights of a “consumer” under the CGA where that Act applies, except to the extent permitted by that Act, and the terms of this agreement are to be modified to the extent necessary to give effect to this intention.

10. Definitions.

Any reference in this agreement to “day” will be a calendar day.

“Acceptable Use Policy” is set forth in the Online Services Terms.

“Affiliate” means any legal entity that a party owns, that owns a party, or that is under common ownership with a party. “Ownership” means, for purposes of this definition, control of more than a 50% interest in an entity.

“Consumption Offering”, “Commitment Offering”, or “Limited Offering” describe categories of Subscription offers and are defined in Section 2.

“Customer Data” is defined in the Online Services Terms.

“End User” means any person you permit to access Customer Data hosted in the Online Services or otherwise use the Online Services.

“Fix” means a Product fix, modifications or enhancements, or their derivatives, that Microsoft either releases generally (such as Product service packs) or provides to Customer to address a specific issue.

“Licensing Site” means http://www.microsoft.com/licensing/contracts or a successor site.

“Non-Microsoft Product” is defined in the Online Services Terms.

“Online Services” means any of the Microsoft-hosted online services subscribed to by Customer under this agreement, including Microsoft Dynamics Online Services, Office 365 Services, Microsoft Azure Services, or Microsoft Intune Online Services.

“Online Services Terms” means the additional terms that apply to Customer’s use of Online Services published on the Licensing Site and updated from time to time. “Previews” means preview, beta, or other pre-release version or feature of the Online Services or Software offered by Microsoft to obtain customer feedback.

“Product” means all products identified in the Product Terms, such as all Software, Online Services and other web-based services, including Previews.

“Product Terms” means the document that provides information about Microsoft Products and Professional Services available through volume licensing. The Product Terms document is published on the Licensing Site and is updated from time to time.

“Professional Services” means Product support services and Microsoft consulting services provided to Customer under this agreement. “Professional Services” does not include Online Services.

“Reseller” means an entity authorized by Microsoft to resell Software licenses and Online Service Subscriptions under this program and engaged by you to provide assistance with your Subscription.

“SLA” means Service Level Agreement, which specifies the minimum service level for the Online Services and is published on the Licensing Site.

“Software” means licensed copies of Microsoft software identified on the Product Terms. Software does not include Online Services, but Software may be a part of an Online Service. “Subscription” means an enrollment for Online Services for a defined Term as established by your Reseller.

“Term” means the duration of a Subscription (e.g., 30 days or 12 months).

“Use Rights” means the use rights or terms of service for each Product published on the Licensing Site and updated from time to time. The Use Rights supersede the terms of any end user license agreement that accompanies a Product. The Use Rights for Software are published by Microsoft in the Product Terms. The Use Rights for Online Services are published in the Online Services Terms.

6 Benefits of an MDM solution

Matthew.Mcgrath@yorb.tech (Matthew McGrath) — Wed, 17 Oct 2018 23:35:09 GMT

Portable digital devices have unlocked the whole new ways of working. They’ve also created a whole lot of work – on average, IT personnel now spend 14% of their time managing devices.

To reduce this workload and allow you to focus on business-led initiatives, there is a trend towards using virtual IT managers to take care of device management.

To meet this demand, IT service providers have stepped up to offer this service to help businesses manage their devices and free up their time.

Just like many software companies are now offering their products as subscription services – a practice known as Software as a Service (SaaS) – so too are device makers such as HP with its Intel-powered Elitebook range.

Mobile device management has emerged as a valid option for businesses looking for a more efficient way of managing the array of devices used by staff.

So, what does a remote device monitoring and management contract include? Here are six services included in many mobile device management agreements.

Device tracking

Where are your devices and what is their status? That’s an important question for all businesses to answer. Remote devices pose an inherent security threat to your IT system that needs to be managed, and that starts with keeping track of the location of those devices at all times.

Lost device wiping

Sometimes, your devices will be lost or misplaced, and although device managers will keep track of your devices, they can still fall into the wrong hands. If the device can’t be retrieved, the security risk can be managed by remotely wiping and disabling the device.

Anti-virus software maintenance

IT system security is an ongoing battle against malicious actors – it will never end. That explains the regular updates that are required to maintain an anti-virus system. These updates can become a chore but are essential to safeguard your business. Mobile device managers can take care of the process for you.

Software updates

Today software updates come at on an almost daily basis. Mobile device managers will stay abreast of these updates and then schedule a time for them to take place so they do not reduce disturb you and your team, all the while ensuring they always have the up-to-date technology at their fingertips.

Insightful analytics provision

Digital devices generate an array of data that can be used to diagnose a range of issues. But with data, half the problem is finding the right data and knowing how to analyse it. Mobile device managers can provide actionable analytics that allows your business to make proactive decisions that will improve productivity.

Security strategies

The more devices your business has, the more potential entry points there are for hackers. Device managers can provide the strategy your business needs to manage the risk of multiple devices being used across a range of locations.

Mobile device management provides an effective solution for businesses looking to streamline their device management. Your team will always have the right device with the right software that is well managed and secure.

Yorb can provide such solutions that will help make your business more productive and allow you and your team to focus on big-picture issues. Visit www.yorb.tech or call 0800 600 606 to find out more.

Focused inbox with Outlook

Matthew.Mcgrath@yorb.tech (Matthew McGrath) — Sun, 07 Oct 2018 23:34:07 GMT

What is focused inbox?

Focused Inbox pre-sorts your email so you can focus on what matters. It places your most essential emails in "Focused" and the rest in "Other." Focused Inbox works across all your email accounts, personal and professional.

To create an inbox that "feels right" to you, the system considers emails and contacts with whom you interact and filters out noisy sources like automatically generated or bulk email. The more you use it, the better it gets. You can easily reclassify emails between Focused and Other. Just open an email, then select "Move to Focused/Non-Focused" from the overflow menu.

Note that your notifications are synced to Focused Inbox, on iOS your badge count is synced to Focused Inbox as well.

Focused inbox is only available for Office 365, Exchange and Outlook.com accounts.

How to turn off Focused Inbox Outlook 2016

1. In Outlook 2016, select the View

2. Select Show Focused Inbox .

The Focused and Other tabs will disappear from the top of your mailbox.

T he Focused and Other tabs will appear at the top of your mailbox. You’ll be informed about email flowing to Other, and you can switch between tabs any time to take a quick look.

Outlook on the Web

1. At the top of the page, select Settings

2. In the Settings pane, move the Focused Inbox toggle to off.

Classic Outlook on the Web

1. Select Settings > Display settings > Focused Inbox.

2. When an email is received , select Don't sort messages .

3. Click OK.

See Focused Inbox in action

I f you are still having trouble with your email, please give us a call on 0800 600 606 or log a job via email at support@computercare.co.nz

Microsoft Inspire 2018

Matthew.Mcgrath@yorb.tech (Matthew McGrath) — Wed, 12 Sep 2018 00:33:17 GMT

Innovation and growth was indeed the theme for this year’s Microsoft Inspire Conference in July. Around 18,000+ partners and 20,000 Microsoft employees from all over the world gathered in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Wayne and Daniel were there representing Yorb as one of 100 New Zealand businesses that made the trip. The latest technologies from Microsoft and others again have us on the cusp of a significant change to accepted business models and how we all use technology on a day to day basis. Technology will become more autonomous, which allows actual human employees to free up their time to focus more on core objectives like collaboration, productivity, and growth.

It became clear almost immediately that businesses are undergoing transformation fuelled by cloud, artificial intelligence, mixed reality and the Internet of Things- and Microsoft is just getting started.

Innovation, Growth, and Differentiation

Every day started with breakfast keynote address followed by a break-out session, seminars, and workshops at Mandalay Bay Conference Centre.

Over the 5-day event and 589 sessions , there was no lack of opportunities to learn. There was a choice of 30 sessions at any one time with topics ranging from Business Leadership, marketing and sales, to Modern Workplace, Data and AI, Applications and Infrastructure, Business Applications, Industry and Partnering with Microsoft.

Key Takeaways

Security and device management were major themes of the event. The “Modern Desktop” centered around Microsoft 365 is designed to allow users easier access to their systems; while providing businesses with greater security controls.
Geolocation blocking
Dual factor authentication
Encrypted data

Microsoft Teams is the current new and shiny thing, with partners configuring this for clients to enable greater team collaboration. The emphasis is on ensuring all team members can access the data they need, communicate effectively and access all the services via a “single pane of glass”

Artificial Intelligence is being baked into all their products. This will include:
The ability for AI to interpret data within your Excel Spreadsheets
Automatically transcribe your meeting notes, highlighting action points for each meeting participant
Embed AI customer service into your websites for basic queries, automatically escalate to a real person when required

In 2010 Microsoft completely changed their business with a move to Office 365 and pay as you go subscriptions. The Cloud is continuing to change how we implement technology solutions and how we support the customer.

Yorb: Clients First, Always

We were extremely privileged to be part of the 2018 Microsoft Inspire Conference. The insights into industry trends, market strategies and ways of improving our business allow us to be true to our commitment to the best possible service to our clients and empowering them to succeed.

GDPR- What does it mean for New Zealand Businesses?

Matthew.Mcgrath@yorb.tech (Matthew McGrath) — Wed, 06 Jun 2018 00:31:59 GMT

By now your inbox will be full of emails about GDPR. So, to make a long story short ‘General Data Protection Regulation’ or GDPR for short, is a new law within Europe designed for businesses that manage and handle data.

GDPR gives consumers better control and knowledge over their personal data and gives them the right to erase their personal information permanently from your database when they want.

What does GDPF mean for New Zealand businesses?

The GDPR also applies to New Zealand businesses who process the personal data of data subjects residing in the EU where that processing either:

relates to the offering of goods or services to data subjects in the EU (irrespective of whether payment is made); or relates to the monitoring of the behavior of data subjects in the EU (e.g., through using cookies or apps to track users through multiple domains).

As an example; if you run an online store and a European user signs up to that store, you need to ensure the data collected is done so in accordance with the new laws.

Our advice

Businesses should be actively considering the impact of the GDPR on their operations. If your business:

A: has an office in the EU

B: offers goods of services to EU subject; or

C: processes sensitive information

You should immediately take steps to comply and discuss the requirements further with your legal professionals.

Other businesses should begin to take note of the regulations, a new Privacy Bill is currently before parliament and this is widely anticipated to include aspects of the GDPR.

Think you know Office 365? Think again

Matthew.Mcgrath@yorb.tech (Matthew McGrath) — Tue, 05 Jun 2018 00:22:17 GMT

We realise that it might not be clear on what you get with an Office 365 subscription, or how best to use the tools throughout your business. As Microsoft resellers we see the continuous growth of Office 365 and to help you better understand what Office 365 has to offer, we’ve put together a guide with some of the products that we feel can be beneficial to your business.

Sharepoint

SharePoint is a collaboration platform that is used to build intranets and collaboration team sites that allow you to share files, data, news, and resources within a customised site for your business.

Teams

Teams is a new chat-based communication and collaboration application for businesses that allow you to integrate Office apps as well as third-party applications such as websites, SurveyMonkey and Smart Sheets. Word, Excel, PowerPoint, OneNote, SharePoint, Planner, Stream video portal, even Power BI are all built into Teams, giving you have the information and tools you need all within one application.

PowerBI

Power BI is a business analytics tool that delivers insights throughout your business allowing your team to visualize and analyze data with greater speed and efficiency. It connects to data from broad range applications such as Google Analytics, Salesforce, MailChimp, Xero and even Excel.

Onedrive

OneDrive is a cloud storage service for individual’s data. You can secure all your files in one place, share them and have access them from anywhere on any device.

Powerapps

Power Apps pulls data from various sources such as SharePoint and OneDrive allowing you to design and build custom mobile apps for your business.

Planner

Planner is a card-based task manager application which allows you to easily organise your tasks allowing you to create new plans, build a team, assign tasks and update status.

Flow

Flow allows you to integrate cloud-based apps and services, they interact with each other seamlessly automating repetitive tasks into multistep personal workflows. If you have a process that you’d like to automate but Flow doesn’t have an existing template, you can create your own flow from scratch.

Yammer

Yammer is a social networking tool for your business. It provides a platform for you and your staff to have open conversations by creating threaded conversations.

Outlook

Outlook is Microsoft’s web-based email service. Staffhub StaffHub is designed for companies whose employees are on the go, such as warehouse staff, baristas, truck drivers and so on. You can create and manage work shifts, share files and communicate important information with team members.

Bookings

Bookings is an amazing tool for small businesses that rely on appointments with their customers. The online bookings calendar integrates into your website giving your customers and employees access and flexibility to schedule and manage their appointments, helping you to avoid the nightmare of trying to juggle everyone’s schedule and double bookings.

If you have an Office 365 subscription, the chances are that you have access to most of these products. Now that you have a bit of an overview of what you can get in Office 365, tell us what you think.

Microsoft Power BI

Matthew.Mcgrath@yorb.tech (Matthew McGrath) — Sun, 06 May 2018 00:29:51 GMT

Power BI is a business analytics tool that delivers insights throughout your business allowing your team to visualize and analyse data across interactive dashboards. Power BI connects you to your data stored within Office 365 programs and third-party services such as Google Analytics, Salesforce and Xero. Power BI makes it easier for you to pull in-depth reports to share within your team.

Dashboard

A Power BI dashboard allows you to see your data through a single pane of glass. Your dashboards are live and update as your data does, providing a consolidated view across your business regardless of where your data lives.

Monitor live dashboards for the data
Track your data in real-time with support for streaming data
Pin new visualizations and KPIs to monitor performance

Dashboards are a great way to monitor your business, to look for answers, and to see all your metrics at a glance.

Apps

Apps bring related dashboards and reports together, making it easy for you and your team to distribute key business information. Power BI allows you to connect to external services you may already use such as Google Analytics, Salesforce, MailChimp and Xero. Numbers are great, but Power BI allows you to visualise your data, making it easier to view changes over time and pull specific reports.

You can select from a large selection of app templates or start from a blank canvas to easily connect your data to Power BI. We have experienced technicians who can create custom apps for any task giving you create visualizations of your business’s data.

How do I get PowerBI?

If you have an Office 365 login you have access to Power BI at no extra cost. You can access your data across multiple platforms, allowing you to stay connected where ever, whenever.

Power BI Desktop
Power BI Mobile App
Power BI On-Premise Data Gateway
Power BI Publisher for Excel

Let's Connect

Power BI can unify all your businesses data, whether in the cloud or on premises. If you already use applications that provide reports, connect them with Power BI to create reports and dashboards for a unified experience connecting you to what matters most.

Getting started with Power BI is fast and simple, and our team of experienced technicians will be there every step of the way. Get in contact with us and we’ll help you create visual stories for your data.

0800 600 606 sales@yorb.tech

Chrome web browser update

Matthew.Mcgrath@yorb.tech (Matthew McGrath) — Tue, 24 Apr 2018 01:27:24 GMT

Ensuring your websites are safe from unauthorised access is vital to us. Google has recently announced that from July its Chrome web browser will flag every site that doesn’t use HTTPS encryption.

What is a secure HTTPS site?

HTTPS means encryption protects the channel between your browser and the website, ensures no one in the middle can tamper with the traffic or spy on what you’re doing. Without that encryption, someone with access to your router or ISP could intercept information sent to websites or inject malware into otherwise legitimate pages.

Previously Google started marking sites that had data entry fields (Forms, Passwords, Credit Cards) as insecure if they didn’t have a Secure certificate. With this upcoming update, EVERY site that isn’t HTTPS will be flagged as ‘not secure,’ whether it includes input fields or not.

What does this mean for unsecure sites?

Google Chrome is the most popular browser across smart phone and desktop users taking over 55% of the market compared to Safari. If your site asks your customers to enter sensitive information such as names, address or credit card details, they're at risk of :

Someone “listening” to their conversations, track their activities across multiple pages, or steal their information.
Their data being modified or corrupted during transfer, intentionally or otherwise, without being detected.

Data sent using HTTPS is significantly more secure and provides three layers of protection:

Encryption- encrypting the exchanged data to keep it secure from That means that while the user is browsing a website, nobody can “listen” to their conversations, track their activities across multiple pages, or steal their information.
Data integrity- data cannot be modified or corrupted during transfer, intentionally or otherwise, without being detected.
Authentication- is the process of determining whether someone or something is, in fact, who or what it is declared to be. This protects them against man-in-the-middle attacks and builds user trust.

How to get your site secure

Our web design team, eTheory, have been transitioning sites to HTTPS to ensure they are web safe over the last 6 months. If you’re unsure if your site is secure the easiest way is to look at the URL of your website. If it ends with an S you’re secure!

If your site does need upgrading, we can help! Whether it’s an upgrade to HTTPS or you’re wanting a complete site design we’ve got it covered. We create all our websites from scratch to suit each client’s brief. We believe that your site should be centred around your business, your brand and your target audience.

Get in contact with us today 0800 600 606 or email us at sales@yorb.tech . We want to get your site working for you and your business.

Microsoft Teams

Matthew.Mcgrath@yorb.tech (Matthew McGrath) — Mon, 23 Apr 2018 01:22:56 GMT

In a world where collaboration is how work gets done, teams need workspaces and tools they’re comfortable using. Teams are Microsoft’s new chat-based communication and collaboration for business. Teams integrate Office apps and services that you use every day with Microsoft. Word, Excel, PowerPoint, OneNote, SharePoint, the new Planner task management app, Stream video portal, even Power BI are all built-in, so you have the information and tools you need right within the context of Microsoft Teams.

Chat, calls and meetings

Chat, calls, meetings within your team and across organizational boundaries. Teams are the hub for teamwork and provide a shared workspace in which teams inside and outside of an organization. Communicate at the moment and keep everyone in the know. The communications capabilities within Teams, including voice and video experiences powered by Skype. You can chat, call and have meetings with everyone on your team, whether they’re inside your organization or an outside partner.

Teams offer a complete meeting solution supporting sharing, video and audio conferencing. This will enable you to transform an ordinary meeting into a modern meeting in the following ways:

Before a meeting- team members can share and review information and conversation history on the the subject matter, without having to leave Teams.
During a meeting: team members can share their desktop, meeting attachments or a PowerPoint deck.
The meeting can take place in either audio conferencing or video and can be recorded.
After a meeting: team members can review recorded meetings and view previous meeting details in the conversation history, giving them complete context.

Productivity

With Teams, you have more time for productivity. Your team members do not have to toggle between different apps. The Office apps and services that you use every day - Word, Excel, PowerPoint, OneNote, SharePoint, even Power BI - are all built-in, so people have the information and tools they need right within the context of Teams.

Conversations, files, and tools live in a team workspace.
Co-author and edit with Office and other files right in the app.
Integrated with Skype, SharePoint, OneNote, Power BI, and Planner.
Search across people, files and chats with intelligence from Microsoft Graph.
Email integration to keep the whole team in the loop.

Customizable and extensible

Every group is unique, you can tailor your workspace to include apps and services for the team and your company.

Pin important files for easy reference in the workspace.
Add bots that work on a team’s behalf.
Integrate cloud services, explore data and get updates from the apps your team uses every day.
Use other apps and programs outside of Microsoft allowing integrations to your existing business process.
Use the Teams developer platform to build integrations to the existing business process.
Manage trusted apps for employees and the organization.

Let's chat

Today’s workplace is consistent and growing, the need to communicate in the moment and keep everyone in the know. Great ideas often start small, among a few people. With Teams, your team is able to communicate freely and scale up/down as needed. At Yorb we can help you integrate Teams into your workplace, and help you choose the right tools to optimize collaboration and productivity.

Storagecraft Office 365 Backup

Matthew.Mcgrath@yorb.tech (Matthew McGrath) — Mon, 05 Mar 2018 00:17:31 GMT

In today’s world data can be anywhere. It may reside in a physical server, or a virtual server in the cloud, or it can even reside in both at the same time. Critical data needs to be protected and available whether it’s hosted locally or in the cloud. Humans delete important files, overwrite one another’s documents, and accidentally download viruses.

Solution

StorageCraft® Cloud Backup provides protection of your business’s Microsoft Office 365 data and G Suite by Google Cloud data. Once set up, backups happen automatically. In a few seconds, you can recover the version of a file or folder that you need, in its original format, through an easy-to-use web interface. And you don’t need to sweat storage space, software upgrades, or the possibility of an onsite backup server failing.

To meet this critical need for cloud-based protection, StorageCraft Cloud Backup for Office 365 provides a flexible, easy-to-use solution for the protection, management and recovery of Office 365 data. It is protected, encrypted and made available through an intuitive, web-based interface. Users can quickly recover a file, a folder, or an entire backup quickly and easily in its original format.

StorageCraft Cloud Backup for Office 365 provides protection for:

Exchange All email activities and Exchange data going back as long as needed or prescribed
Calendars and contacts Data saved for multiple previous revisions, edits and versions
OneDrive for Business Everything that is needed from Office 365 processes is collected, encrypted, protected and readily available
SharePoint Protection of base SharePoint organizational data
Public shared folders Availability of all data that is in use in public shared folders across user defined time periods

Feature - Benefit

Accessibility - Service is available through an internet-connected device
Protection or Backup Data - Data is protected by state-of-the-art compression, encryption in SAS 70-certified centres
Efficienct & Reliability - Users can restore a document, a folder, or all content without deleting or overwriting files
Fast Recovery - Needed files or folders can be identified, restored and downloaded immediately
User Transparency - Data additions or changes are identified automatically and backed up without user intervention
Ease of Use - All backup and recovery controls are menu-driven, intuitive, and complete
Best Use or Resources - Lower IT costs: no hardware overhead, no worries about updates
Flexibility & Scalability - Easy to adjust to the changing demands of systems or users

Yorb are proud to be Gold Partners with StorageCraft. Our team of experts are ready to help get your business backed up and operating productively for you.

Talk to us today about getting your Office365 backed up. Call us on 0800 600 606 or email at sales@yorb.tech

Race to the Brewery

Matthew.Mcgrath@yorb.tech (Matthew McGrath) — Sun, 25 Feb 2018 00:05:29 GMT

Absolute stunner of a day on Saturday for the Race to the Brewery! We were the first IT team to cross the finish line, completeing the event in 4 hours 46 minutes.

We must have looked good because we made it into the news! Thank you to the team at Property Brokers for such a great event. We're looking forward to beating our time next year.

www.stuff.co.nz/manawatu-standard/news/101749171/race-to-the-brewery-raises-more-than-30000-for-cancer-patients