6 Ways to Improve IT Service Desk Operations for Less Than $1k

Did you find a little extra cash in the budget somewhere? Even less than $1,000 can benefit the IT service desk if put to good use. What are some ways that a small amount of money can make big improvements? Here’s a handy, helpful list.

1. Upgrade a Software Package

Likely, there are a few freeware packages you’re using that have some extra features or functionality that come with the paid versions. Pick one that your workers use a lot and invest in upgrading to get more out of a single piece of software. Sometimes, by adding a few low-cost paid premium products, you can eliminate a lot of redundant software. This helps streamline your asset management processes.

2. Invest in a New Scanner

A high-quality scanner is available for about $500 or less. Some of these machines are multi-taskers, meaning you get even more bang for your buck. For example, a few still offer fax features. Though your business is likely way past the old “send me a fax” days, you might have customers or vendors still using this technology, and a fax/printer/scanner will allow you to accommodate them.

3. Get Some Additional Training

Having a professional trainer come to the office to instruct your group can cost well into 6-figures. But there are a lot of online training programs that cost far less, and even some that are completely free. Invest your $1,000 in training on using software packages, undertaking big data initiatives, time management, leadership courses, or graphic design. Wherever you feel your IT workers are lacking, you can probably find a good training course online at a great price.

4. Upgrade Workers’ Mobile Devices

Mobile devices have come about a million light years in about a minute. If your workers are toting around relics from the 3G era, you can probably upgrade these devices for a nominal cost without affecting your monthly charges much, if any. This is especially useful if you’ve switched to cloud-based services like ITSM software. It will speed their connectivity and provide a range of functionality that they can leverage for serving users, collaborating on projects, and other day-to-day IT functions.

5. Invest in Larger Monitors

The price of monitors has plummeted recently, while the video capabilities (as well as space-saving features) have improved. For $200 per monitor or less, you can outfit a team of 5 workers with brand new, larger, nicer monitors for just $1,000. It reduces eye strain and makes it easier to get more fields on the screen, which is handy when you’re trying to solve problems or answer questions for a customer or an executive.

6. Buy a 3D Printer

As 3D printing technology proves ever more useful, quality 3D printers have dropped in price. A pretty good one is available for around $1,000, sometimes less. 3D printers are useful in producing prototypes or creating models. These can be useful for your sales team when pitching products to clients, and to anyone in the office preparing a presentation. You can likely find even more uses for a 3D printer with some research and creative thinking.

What could your IT department do with just $1,000?