As businesses grow, their IT needs become more complex. Without a structured IT plan, inefficiencies creep in, security risks increase, and costs spiral. A strong IT foundation ensures smooth operations, protects sensitive data, and supports long-term scalability.

This checklist provides a clear roadmap for business owners and IT decision-makers to build a resilient IT setup that supports growth while minimising risks.

1. Core IT Infrastructure: Laying the Foundation

Before scaling, businesses need a reliable IT infrastructure.

Reliable Internet & Network Setup

• Invest in high-speed internet that can handle increased traffic.
• Secure your Wi-Fi with encryption and strong passwords.
• Use a Virtual Private Network (VPN) for remote workers.

Scalable Cloud Solutions

• Cloud storage (Google Drive, OneDrive, Dropbox, or a private cloud).
• Cloud-based business apps (Microsoft 365, Google Workspace, etc.).
• Backup & disaster recovery solutions to prevent data loss.

Hardware That Grows With You

• Ensure laptops, desktops, and mobile devices meet business needs.
• Keep servers up to date or consider cloud-based alternatives.
• Standardise equipment to simplify IT management.

2. Cybersecurity: Protecting Your Business as It Grows

Security risks increase with business growth, making proactive cybersecurity essential.

Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) for All Accounts

• Enable MFA to significantly reduce hacking risks.

Endpoint Security & Antivirus Protection

• Install antivirus and anti-malware software on all devices.
• Use device encryption to protect sensitive data.

Regular Data Backups

• Perform daily or weekly backups to cloud and local storage.
• Test backups regularly to ensure they work.

Firewall & Network Security

• Use a secure firewall to block unauthorised access.
• Monitor network traffic for suspicious activity.

Cybersecurity Awareness Training for Employees

• Train employees to recognise phishing attempts and scams.
• Implement company-wide security policies for password management and data handling.

3. IT Support & Maintenance: Keeping Systems Running Smoothly

Proactive IT support prevents costly downtime and inefficiencies.

Proactive IT Monitoring & Maintenance

• Regularly update systems and apply security patches.
• Consider 24/7 IT monitoring to detect issues before they escalate.

IT Helpdesk or Managed IT Services

• Decide whether to maintain an in-house IT team or use a Managed Service Provider (MSP) like Support Stack.
• Outsourcing IT support can improve efficiency and reduce costs.

IT Documentation & Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)

• Maintain IT policies for onboarding new employees.
• Create guides for common IT troubleshooting steps.

4. Business Software & Productivity Tools

The right software improves efficiency and collaboration.

Project Management & Communication Tools

• Project management: Asana, Trello, or Monday.com.
• Team communication: Slack, Microsoft Teams, or Zoom.

Customer Relationship Management (CRM) Software

• Use tools like HubSpot, Salesforce, or Zoho CRM to track customer interactions.

Accounting & Financial Software

• Automate accounting with QuickBooks, Xero, or FreshBooks.

HR & Payroll Systems

• Manage employees with BambooHR, Gusto, or ADP.

5. Compliance & Data Protection: Avoiding Legal Risks

As businesses scale, compliance with data protection regulations becomes crucial.

GDPR, HIPAA, or Industry-Specific Compliance

• Securely handle customer and employee data.
• Develop clear privacy policies and data retention guidelines.

Access Control & Role-Based Permissions

• Restrict access to sensitive business data.
• Use a zero-trust security model for remote workers.

Incident Response Plan

• Prepare for IT emergencies such as data breaches or ransomware attacks.
• Run security drills to test response readiness.

6. Future-Proofing IT: Planning for Scalability

IT should be a strategic investment that supports future growth.

IT Budgeting & Planning

• Allocate funds for IT upgrades and maintenance.
• Benchmark IT spending against industry standards.

Scalability Planning

• Ensure your current IT setup can support 2x or 3x growth.
• Plan for future software integrations and cloud migrations.

IT Risk Assessment

• Regularly assess IT risks and security vulnerabilities.
• Use Support Stack’s IT Risk Assessment Tool for a personalised review.

7. How Support Stack Can Help Growing Businesses

At Support Stack, we specialise in managed IT services, cybersecurity, and strategic IT planning. Our proactive support ensures businesses have a secure and scalable IT foundation.

Take Action Today:

• Use our IT Risk Assessment Tool to evaluate your IT readiness.
• Schedule a free consultation to discuss your IT strategy.

Investing in the right IT infrastructure today will prevent costly disruptions tomorrow. Let’s build an IT strategy that grows with your business.