December 11, 2019
Sales Engagement - The Definitive Guide
More and more organizations are discovering the value of an all-in-one system for sales engagement. As a result, these new platforms are taking over the industry and revolutionizing the way sales are being conducted. Find out everything from the current status of sales engagement technologies to what to expect in the future in this article.
Top 10 Security Deployment Actions with Microsoft 365
If you're looking for a roadmap to a more secure system, we've got you covered. Check out this list to discover 10 actions you can take using the tools provided in Microsoft 365 to better protect your business from cybersecurity threats. And don't forget, Bay Area IT Solutions, Inc. is here to help you every step of the way.
Microsoft increases productivity and protects assets with OneDrive for Business
Losing data because a device goes down is not an option. Cloud solutions like OneDrive for business can help you keep your data backed up and protected. With features like SSL encryption and the ability to set expiration dates on certain permissions, your data will be taken care of. Integrating new cloud solutions is tough for any business. That's why we're here to take care of you. Contact Bay Area IT Solutions, Inc. today to find out more on how we can help.
View: Microsoft increases productivity and protects assets with OneDrive for Business
December 10, 2019
Dynamics 365 automates complex transactions and business processes
As the complexity of transactions grew, Microsoft needed a robust management system to efficiently process and answer questions. So, they developed a Microsoft Dynamics 365-based contract and transaction case management solution. It uses defined stages to show the status of a transaction, helping employees manage the process. At Bay Area IT Solutions, Inc., we have the knowledge to help you identify the tools you need to create that same capability. Contact us today to learn how we can help.
View: Dynamics 365 automates complex transactions and business processes
Making the shift to a modern desktop with Microsoft 365
Making the shift to a modern desktop helps you to foster a highly secure workspace, empowered by the latest productivity, teamwork, and collaboration experiences for your organization. A modern desktop is Windows 10 and Office 365 kept up to date, and while that combination seems straightforward, adopting these solutions can be a challenge. At Bay Area IT Solutions, Inc., we have some of the best IT pros you will find, and together, we can integrate your modern desktop solutions quickly and securely. Contact us today to learn more.
View: Making the shift to a modern desktop with Microsoft 365
Belgrade Nikola Tesla Airport
With your data backed up in the cloud, you don't have to worry about owning physical servers that are costly to maintain. For instance, Azure disaster recovery helped save Belgrade Nikola Tesla Airport 69% by reducing their reliance of on-premises IT infrastructure. At Bay Area IT Solutions, Inc., we know how to help you integrate cloud solutions, no matter what state your IT infrastructure is in. Start saving today; contact us to find out how.
TEI Microsoft Dynamics 365 For Finance Operations
When you optimize operations, you make employees more efficient, and this can lead to real savings especially when it comes to reducing overtime. Some businesses have increased Finance employee productivity up to 20%. At Bay Area IT Solutions, Inc., we know the business applications that you need to integrate and drive transformation within your organization. Contact us today to speak with one of our experienced staff about how we can help you plan your transformation.
Microsoft 365 Windows 10 Flyer
In today's modern digital age, you need an operating system that can keep your workers and their assets safe from threats. Windows 10 is safe, secure, and it provides critical security capabilities that enable organizations to effectively guard against malicious activity. At Bay Area IT Solutions, Inc., we have years of experience helping customers upgrade their Windows systems so they're using the best version available. Contact us today to find out more.
December 9, 2019
Customer Story: Park Place Technologies builds personal relationships to drive global sales
Their customers look to Park Place Technologies to show them what's on the cutting edge of technology. Park Place does this in part by employing workers who have an innovative and entrepreneurial spirit then providing them with leading-edge tools like Dynamics 365. Check out this video to learn more about their strategy and their journey.
Office 365 keeps your business compliant - around the clock
While implemented with the best of intentions, remaining compliant with data security requirements can be a massive burden on businesses, especially those in highly regulated industries. That's why Microsoft ensures that the security provided through Office 365 is always on the cutting edge of compliance, so your business can focus on delivering the best experience to your customers.
December 4, 2019
How to bake automation into your company's architecture, from the ground up
There are enormous benefits businesses can realize from integrating automated systems in their workplace. From increased agility to having a better understanding of the big picture. Automation isn't replacing humans, it's enabling people to focus on what they're good at. As an employer, you should be doing everything in your power to help your employees do the same.
At Bay Area IT Solutions, Inc., we can help you find the solutions that help your workers focus. Contact us to find out more.
Workplace agility: The true secret to improving productivity and efficiency
Balance and choice in the workplace are more important to the millennial generation than salary. With Gen Z coming up fast, choice won't be something nice to have, it'll be expected. That's why maintaining agility in the workplace is so important.
At Bay Area IT Solutions, Inc., we know that you need to keep your workforce productive and happy, and we want to help you find the solution that best meets your constantly evolving agility needs. Contact us today to find out more.
Mapping Data Protection Strategies For The New Year
Even when Lewis and Clark set out to find the Northwest Passage, they had to keep business continuity and disaster recovery top of mind. Like those explorers, business owners and IT teams must put plans in place to mitigate unforeseen dangers and risks, while protecting data.
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December 3, 2019
Modernize Your Sales Productivity in Hours, Not Days
Dynamics 365 for Sales Professional was built to tackle the biggest challenges faced by sales professionals, especially unclear expectations and sales tools and data overload. Cut through the clutter and ambiguity with Dynamics 365 for Sales Professional.
Unlocking Future Potential with Dynamics 365 and Power BI
Celestica assists their customers at every stage of product development, so they needed a comprehensive system that could do the same. That's why they use Dynamics 365 and Power BI to track and visualize everything from their own internal metrics to customer success.
I have solutions from many vendors in my IT environment. How can Microsoft help me secure our entire digital landscape?
Keep your data protected as your business grows and changes with the times. Whether you're adding apps, devices, or moving to the cloud, Microsoft 365 ensures your data is secure without overburdening your security team.
Customer story: Zespri
Zespri International markets and sells kiwifruit to retailers around the world. After business was disrupted by an earthquake and plant virus, the New Zealand grower moved business-critical SAP workloads to Microsoft Azure, reducing IT costs, promoting scalability, ensuring business continuity, and enabling the company to focus on what they do best--growing and selling kiwifruit.
Map to your customers' sales expectations
Customers mention the desire for faster interactions with sales twice as often as lower price. This is probably because 60% of companies lack a well-designed sales process, instead patching together multiple time-consuming sales tools.
Dynamics 365 for Sales Professional has the potential to transform this process, by integrating tools seamlessly into sales reps' routines to save time through efficiencies.
December 2, 2019
Customer story: M-KOPA Solar
As their business grew to over 1,000 employees, M-KOPA Solar, a consumer solar energy provider, needed to consolidate their reporting to promote timely responses and meet customer demand quickly--all while maintaining a secure IT environment. By adopting a full suite of IaaS, PaaS, and SaaS solutions, M-KOPA can respond to demand and meet business requirements quickly. At Bay Area IT Solutions, Inc., we want to help you do the same. Contact us to learn more on how we can help.
Customer story: Goodyear
Goodyear has been accelerating for 100 years. Today, as innovation happens faster than ever, it's more important for their team to be connected, no matter where they are. Having the right tools to enable that collaboration and productivity is essential. That's why they use Microsoft 365; it's the right solution for their needs.
At Bay Area IT Solutions, Inc., we can help you identify the solutions that will keep your team connected and productive. Contact us today to learn more.
How small businesses can safeguard their data
With security risks like compromised credentials, stolen devices, and human error, keeping your business protected can seem overwhelming, especially for a small business that may not have the resources to dedicate to it. Microsoft 365 offers a complete solution, with tools like multifactor identification and data encryption that cover the areas you can't.
November 26, 2019
Experience is everything: Here's how to get it right
Customer experience can make or break a business. It seems like an obvious statement, so why do so many companies struggle to get it right? Check out this E-book to gain insights on how best to utilize technology and other resources to ensure you are nailing this fundamental requirement.
How can Microsoft help me understand my current security posture and get recommendations on how to improve?
This Thought Leadership provides an overview of the offerings Microsoft 365 has to help security CISOs and other security professionals gain better visibility and control of their current and future security position.
Managing the enterprise cloud with Operations Management Suite
With cloud-based monitoring, Microsoft can keep watch over their entire IT operations environment, from the cloud to the datacenter, using the Operations Management Suite (OMS). With OMS, Microsoft doesn't need to add on-premises infrastructure. They can automate tasks and analyze logs and reporting across multiple platforms--including Azure and Windows Server. Your business can do the same. Contact Bay Area IT Solutions, Inc. to find out more information.
View: Managing the enterprise cloud with Operations Management Suite
What is Microsoft Azure?
Azure is a flexible, open, and secure platform. It grants you access to a broad collection of tools you can integrate into your IT environment. With 70+ compliance offerings, and 95% of Fortune 500 companies on board, you can be sure that the services Azure provides are secure and offer the largest portfolio in the industry. Contact Bay Area IT Solutions, Inc. to find out more on how we can help you integrate Azure solutions into your business.
Do more beyond the Core Microsoft Dynamics 365 + SAP
Many organizations are moving to cloud-based ERP systems that can provide greater speed and flexibility at lower costs. Some businesses may not be able to migrate to the cloud, but they may still require greater flexibility and capabilities than their existing solutions provide.
At Bay Area IT Solutions, Inc., we want to help these businesses plan and adopt an ERP solution that can fit within their current operations, providing a smooth journey while adding the benefits of an enhanced ERP system.
November 25, 2019
Deploying Windows 10 at Microsoft as an in-place upgrade
If you haven't upgraded to the latest version of Windows, you could be losing out on productivity. Your employees need the latest tools, and we can help. At Bay Area IT Solutions, Inc., we have a team of dedicated professionals who specialize in helping businesses just like yours grow and adopt new solutions, platforms, and IT. Contact us to find out how we can bring your team and their assets up to date with the latest tech and solutions on the market.
View: Deploying Windows 10 at Microsoft as an in-place upgrade
Customer Story: Compass Group serves up a global solution with Microsoft Dynamics 365
Watch the multinational organization Compass successfully implement the user-friendly, scalable Dynamics 365 platform to maintain consistent customer service across their entire organization.
Modernize your ERP with a multi-tiered deployment for Operations Finance
If you're using a primary ERP system that is expensive to customize, it might be time to implement a multi-tier ERP model. Integrating multiple ERP solutions provides a set of capabilities unique to your business needs. At Bay Area IT Solutions, Inc., we know ERP requirements can be tough to plan; that's why we're here to help. With years of experience helping businesses adopt the solutions they need, we can work with you to ensure a smooth and fast transition. Contact us today for more.
View: Modernize your ERP with a multi-tiered deployment for Operations Finance
Microsoft 365 Office Flyer
In the digital age, your business must offer customers increased security and privacy without breaking the bank. Security across all your devices is key to ensuring you're protected. Safeguard cyberthreats proactively with enhanced and constantly updated tools and anomaly detection policies. At Bay Area IT Solutions, Inc., we know this can be a challenge, that's why we're here to help. Contact us today to create a robust and secure IT system that your customers expect and that you'll be glad you have.
Your Data is Safe with Office 365
Small businesses deserve the benefits of the cloud as much as any other company, and now they can do so without worrying about the security of their data.
November 20, 2019
How Do We Design Workplaces For Maximum Productivity
In the digital age, we need to start focusing on employees as the drivers of growth by helping them be more productive. Design a workplace strategy that supports and enables efficient, happier, and healthier employees with a mobile, modern desktop. At Bay Area IT Solutions, Inc., we can help. With years of experience helping businesses handle the tech they need, we can help you ensure your employees are at their peak performance with new solutions. Contact us to find out how we can help.
Five Ways to Effectively Optimize Your Business Operations
Even today, many practices in the business world are performed manually leaving room for human error as well as the risks of customer dissatisfaction. Automating some of those practices like customer reporting can cut down on errors, time, and money. At Bay Area IT Solutions, Inc., we want to help you optimize your business. With the right tools and experienced team at your side, there's no end to what your business can achieve. Contact us today to set up a consultation.
Three steps to a new paradigm for disaster recovery and backup
Ransomware is putting entire systems at risk. You can't afford to let that happen to your business. Prevent attacks by taking a proactive approach. With Azure Backup, protect your on-premises virtual machines, physical servers, and files to Azure. With your data in Azure, you have the flexibility to restore your data to a specific period in time to keep your business moving.
November 19, 2019
Customer story: Maersk
You can't do everything on your own. Having a team of professionals with in-depth experience can revolutionize your business. Since integrating with Microsoft Services, Maersk, a logistics company and global container shipping leader, has dramatically reduced their time to market and improved their performance and reduced their operational risk.
How do I find and manage shadow IT and rogue devices, and put policies in place to ensure we remain secure?
New cloud app capabilities offer the potential for teams to work smarter and more efficiently than ever before, but they can put huge pressure on IT and security teams to ensure company data remains secure without hindering forward progress. Microsoft 365 tools allow you to do this.
Customer Story: Dell
For Dell, having a mobile workforce was essential. That meant they needed a cloud solution that would allow them to gain access from anywhere and collaborate with ease. With the right solution, Dell is positioned for the future evolution of their industry. Is your company ready to take on the future? At Bay Area IT Solutions, Inc., we can help you integrate the modern desktop solutions you need to ensure a great digital experience for your employees. Contact us today to learn more.
Customer Story: Michael Hill
Since 1979, Michael Hill has provided the world with luxury jewelry. As the company has grown, they've needed to expand their omnichannel processes. This desire has driven them to consolidate data onto one platform to accelerate their digital transformation. You, too, can optimize your operations to drive transformation and accelerate growth.
Five revenue killers and how to defeat them
Compiling the knowledge of several sales and marketing experts, this guide is intended to help you identify, avoid, and/or remediate these five revenue killers that may be impacting the effectiveness of your sales and marketing efforts.
November 18, 2019
Defend, protect, secure. IT heroes in action.
Walk through a week in the life of IT professionals to see the variety of work they do each day to address threats and protect your organization.
November 13, 2019
Five revenue killers and how to defeat them
Are you getting the most out of your available data? Are your sales and marketing teams communicating effectively? Seemingly small missed connections could be holding your business back from hitting revenue goals. Find out what they are and how to avoid them here.
Protect your data in files, apps, and devices, within and across an organization
In addition to protecting endpoints, Microsoft believes in protecting data, starting at its very inception. Check out the strategies and tools they have to keep data protected across all scenarios in this informational document.
View: Protect your data in files, apps, and devices, within and across an organization
November 12, 2019
Protecting Azure resources with Recovery Services vault
Like many businesses, as their organization began rapidly migrating and deploying solutions to Azure, the demand for data protection in the cloud has also increased. That's why Microsoft developed Azure Recovery Services vault to help manage their backup and disaster recovery needs natively in the cloud. Contact Bay Area IT Solutions, Inc. to find out more on how we can help you use this same solution to meet your data recovery needs.
View: Protecting Azure resources with Recovery Services vault
Backup and Disaster Recovery
You need to back up your data. But you shouldn't use just any service, you need a platform your team is already familiar with, a platform you can trust. You need Microsoft Azure. Azure offers an effective solution with enormous capacity for storage, built-in security, and cloud datacenters all over the world. At Bay Area IT Solutions, Inc., we want to help you adopt the solution you need with Azure. Contact us for more information.
Creating an immigration workflow management solution with Dynamics 365
A global operation like Microsoft employs a diverse international workforce. To process their visa applications faster, the legal team uses Microsoft Dynamics so employees can focus on what they do best. At Bay Area IT Solutions, Inc., it's our job to assist your business along your digital transformation journey, and we can help you use these same tools. Give us a call to learn how you can improve your workflows too.
View: Creating an immigration workflow management solution with Dynamics 365
Increasing employee productivity with Microsoft Search in Bing and PowerApps
Technology exists to make our lives easier, safer, and more productive. So, why are you still using an outdated IT infrastructure? Empower your employees to accomplish more by digitally transforming how they work. At Bay Area IT Solutions, Inc., our goal is to help you put solutions in place that can help your team accomplish more. Contact us today to find out how we can help you deliver the user experience and productivity gains your employees need to succeed.
View: Increasing employee productivity with Microsoft Search in Bing and PowerApps
Modernize your ERP Operations Finance
Do you need to fuel your businesses growth? With the solutions available in the cloud, it's now easier to do. By modernizing your enterprise resource planning capabilities, you'll find the insights you need to empower employees and optimize your operations. At Bay Area IT Solutions, Inc., we know this isn't an easy task, that's why we're here to help. We have the knowledge and experience you need to make the transition in record time. Contact us today to learn how we can help.
November 11, 2019
Microsoft 365 Powered Device Pilot Datasheet
If your IT solutions are outdated, it's time you start thinking about how you're going to modernize the way you do business. With a modern desktop, employees have the tools to do more and stay secure. With security built in, Windows 10 protects, detects, and responds to the most advanced malware and cyber threats. At Bay Area IT Solutions, Inc., we know how to help you plan and adopt a solution that you can use to give your employees the security and productivity they need to succeed. Contact us today for more.
Customer Story: BP deploys Microsoft 365 to improve user experience and security
BP recognizes the significance of cybersecurity to their business and the importance of continual digital transformation to remain competitive. To accomplish both simultaneously, they implemented Microsoft 365 Enterprise E5, getting the best of Microsoft tools with an integrated security system that's simple and easy for all employees to use.
November 6, 2019
Increasing Agility in the Enterprise with Digital Technologies
Businesses all over are adopting cloud technology via multiple combinations of IaaS, PaaS, and SaaS services. It's a trend that will only ramp up as more companies realize the benefits of reducing the datacenter footprint. A more agile work environment and faster transformation all lead to increased operational efficiencies. At Bay Area IT Solutions, Inc., we can help you realize the benefits of the cloud and we're ready to help you on your journey.
November 5, 2019
13 Tech Experts Predict The Industry's Biggest Challenges In 2019
How is your business preparing for change? This year is set to be the biggest year in tech ever, but some businesses are still struggling to incorporate the cloud that will make the most promising innovations possible. If you still need to modernize your IT, we can help. At Bay Area IT Solutions, Inc., we have industry experience helping businesses just like yours to modernize your desktop and IT.
Be A Prepper: The Keys To A Digital Disaster Recovery Plan For Business Leaders
This article, written by a small business owner, is relevant to business leaders of every type. It highlights the importance of a disaster recovery plan and underscores the value of diligence and consistency when implementing one.
Customer story: Nakilat
Qatari shipping and maritime company, Nakilat, aspires to be a global leader in energy transportation. To increase its efficiency, security, and competitive advantage, the company has transitioned its onshore offices and fleet of 67 vessels to a cloud-based, SaaS model. With Microsoft 365 and Microsoft Cloud App Security, Nakilat has securely improved employee communication and mobility. The company has also adopted Microsoft Azure to optimize operations and improve business continuity, reducing operating costs by 50%.
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Discover threats quickly, remediate immediately, and mitigate the impact of malware and breaches
Technology is not static, and neither, therefore, are the methods cybercriminals can use to gain access to company networks or data. In light of this, an effective security system is one that can learn and react to new threats as they come. Discover the powerful combination of Microsoft tools that provide a comprehensive security strategy for your business.
November 4, 2019
Customer story: Renault Sport Formula One
To help their team accelerate operations, the team at Renault Sport uses advanced IT solutions. Their operations are complex with a lot of moving parts. Being able to control and optimize every process means faster turnaround times and better results. That's the advantage they need to win. The IT solutions they use aren't reserved for racing. The team at Bay Area IT Solutions, Inc. is here to help. We are IT pros who focus on helping firms to adopt the best tech. Contact us for more information.
Customer story: Xiaoyi Technology
When global camera company Xiaoyi Technology (YI) set out to modernize its IT infrastructure in the cloud, it chose Microsoft 365. Since adopting Microsoft 365, the company has been able to boost productivity, maximize productivity and enhance customer experience by automating time intensive processes. This video shows highlights of the YI's inspiring story.
Breaches happen. Learn how to protect your organization.
Check out this infographic to learn the three most commonly used inroads into your system and how best to secure your data from each strategy.
View: Breaches happen. Learn how to protect your organization.
October 30, 2019
Forrester Wave: Sales Force Automation Solutions
In this in-depth examination, Forrester compares various Sales Force Automation providers using 35 criteria divided along the axes of current offerings and strategy. Discover what makes a successful SFA platform and who leads the market in offerings.
Using cloud technologies to improve disaster recovery
Disaster lurks around every corner. You need a solution that can deliver peace of mind with a comprehensive solution. By using Microsoft System Center Data Protection Manager and SQL Data Sync to improve application resilience and performance in the cloud, Microsoft IT helps ensure that business applications are always available, and data is protected in case of disaster.
October 29, 2019
Azure Backup datasheet
Your data is more important to your organization than ever before. In today's technological world, having the tools to back up your information is vital to success. Azure Backup helps you retain rapidly increasing amounts of data while keeping storage costs low. It makes it easy for you to back up and restore your most important information when the unexpected happens.
A breach is inevitable. How can Microsoft help me detect and respond fast?
An all too familiar scenario: A single click in a phishing email and hackers are into a network, resulting in a ransomware request and an uneasy feeling. Learn what tools Microsoft 365 E5 has in its arsenal to ensure this isn't you.
View: A breach is inevitable. How can Microsoft help me detect and respond fast?
Transforming facilities management with Dynamics 365 at Microsoft
Is your business mobile? Microsoft Real Estate and Facilities (RE&F) was facing a lack of mobility. The issue slowed productivity and operations and it needed to change. That's when RE&F turned to cloud tech to join disparate management tools to optimize operations. At Bay Area IT Solutions, Inc., we have the resources and know-how to help you find the solution to your mobility issues. With our dedicated team of professionals, we can help you develop a winning strategy. Contact us to find out more.
View: Transforming facilities management with Dynamics 365 at Microsoft
Exploring Windows 10
Windows 10 is designed to add functionality on a familiar platform that will boost employee productivity and ensure a great user experience. It's one way your employees can get more from their modern devices. Combined with the flexibility of a modern workplace, you can increase your business productivity.
At Bay Area IT Solutions, Inc., we can help you adopt and implement Windows 10 and get the most from the new solutions that are available within it. Get the most from your new devices. Contact us today to learn how.
Microsoft Dynamics 365 for Finance and Operations
You need to optimize your operations. The potential savings and increased sales are well worth the time and energy. But transforming how you do business isn't always easy. Dynamics 365 allows you to simplify processes and inform your team so you can maximize operations. At Bay Area IT Solutions, Inc., we have years of industry experience and a knowledgeable team ready to help you plan and implement intelligent business applications. Contact us to learn more.
October 28, 2019
Why your business should shift to a modern desktop with Microsoft 365 on a new device
Good employees do good work wherever they are. In fact, employee productivity increases on average by 22% when workers have the capability to work in a flexible modern workplace. Having that kind of flexibility even reduces employee turnover by 50%.
If you're unsure about how to make the transition, we're here to help. At Bay Area IT Solutions, Inc., we're industry experts and can help you formulate and execute a plan to modernize your workplace and devices. Contact us today for more.
View: Why your business should shift to a modern desktop with Microsoft 365 on a new device
The Minnesota Vikings streamline operations with Microsoft
Watch how the Minnesota Vikings revolutionized everything from scouting to sales with Microsoft solutions.
Customer Story: Guarding university data with a holistic security model
Watch the University of Arizona, in partnership with Microsoft, tackle the challenges of revamping a new, secure Active Directory system and move both students and staff to Office 365.
October 23, 2019
Why SMEs Should Embrace The Flexi-Time Movement
There's no question, greater flexibility makes happier employees and promotes productivity. Allowing employees to work when they are most efficient means maximizing their efforts while boosting morale. But getting the modern desktop solutions your employees need to work productively requires a transition.
At Bay Area IT Solutions, Inc., we have years of experience helping businesses transition to a modern desktop solution that meets their exact needs. It's one way you can reduce the uncertainty of a big change. Contact us to learn more.
10 Things To Consider When It Comes To Disaster Recovery
Just as you would stock your home with supplies before a hurricane, it's necessary to prepare your IT infrastructure and operations before a proverbial storm hits. With Azure, you can use a litany of products and services to help recover and in many cases prevent disasters from rocking your organization.
October 22, 2019
Customer story: Allscripts
Having a reliable and secure IT service provider was more than acquiring 1,000 VMs needed to run the show. Allscripts, a leading healthcare software manufacturer, acquired two companies in 2017. To ensure their new datacenter assets had a home fast, they brought on Microsoft Azure. The reliability of built-in disaster recovery protections means Allscripts doesn't have to worry about losing their data. You can do the same.
The Top Digital Transformation Trend For 2019
Forbes is predicting that 2019 will be different than years past. Budgets are lower and digital is much less expensive than it used to be. Read the article for insight on how these trends and others are paving the way for businesses all over to embrace digital transformation.
How is your business set up to transform and what are you doing to ensure there won't be any hiccups along the way? At Bay Area IT Solutions, Inc., we know how to help businesses plan for and get the most out of their digital transformation. Contact us today to find out how we can help.
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Microsoft Security Intelligence Report: Volume 23
In this bi-annual publication, learn about the latest security threats affecting us all, including botnets, hacker methods, and ransomware.
Customer story: Lay Bare
The team at specialized hair company Lay Bare believes every company needs to be a tech company to deliver reliable, excellent service across the whole customer experience. In this video, discover what Lay Bare gained when it transformed IT with Microsoft Azure to improve branch efficiencies, empower its workforce and implement time-saving services for customers and employees across multiple franchises.
October 21, 2019
Customer story: Qantas Airways
What used to take the Qantas team months or weeks to resolve now takes a matter of days or hours. The cloud provides workers the flexibility to use mobile devices, speeding up the response times of management.
Any firm can benefit from the flexibility of a modern desktop just like Qantas. But it's not always easy. At Bay Area IT Solutions, Inc., we specialize in helping businesses just like yours to modernize their IT infrastructure to achieve the productivity that cloud tech can provide. Contact us to learn more.
3 ways modern sales productivity technologies drive results for high-growth SMBs
This article explores the ways in which sales productivity technologies help SMBs move toward higher automation for simplified tasks and what it is that makes some tools more effective than others.
Microsoft identity-driven security
As the security landscape becomes more mobile and complex, traditional security methods are no longer up to the task. Check out this infographic to learn why the holistic approach of Microsoft's Identity-Driven Security was designed to handle the threats of today, and tomorrow.
October 16, 2019
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October 15, 2019
Customer story: Fleet Complete
Shortly after a surge in business, which mobile-workforce-management company Fleet Complete referred to as "man your battle stations" mode, the company kicked into disaster recovery mode. In January 2018, the Fleet Complete head office in Toronto, Canada, was flooded. Although many employees could not access the office, with cloud technology, including Microsoft Azure and Microsoft Dynamics 365, the company remained completely operational amidst disaster.
Microsoft 365 Holistic Security
From privileges to passwords, this graphic highlights the strategies available through Microsoft 365 E5 to attain comprehensive security for employees who are always on the go.
4 Sales Trends That You Need To Know About In 2019
From technology shifts to generational shifts, check out the changes coming down the road that sales professionals will need to embrace in order to have the most productive 2019.
Customer story: Team Rubicon
Hurricane Harvey was the most devastating natural disaster to ever hit Houston, Texas. With thousands displaced and homes ruined, Team Rubicon stepped in to render aid and help rebuild the afflicted city and its population. With so many volunteers, Team Rubicon needed a way to track and manage their dispersed network of workers. They adopted Dynamics 365 to help optimize operations and give their volunteers a great experience. You can leverage these same tools, but don't do it alone. Contact Bay Area IT Solutions, Inc. today to find out how we can help your organization integrate the IT tools you need to succeed.
October 14, 2019
Customer story: TD Bank
6% of employees at TD self-identify as disabled. TD works hard to create a supportive environment where employees can bring their whole selves to work. By providing the right tools, they enable employees to self-accommodate and make their computing experience much more comfortable. How are you helping your employees to increase productivity in the workplace? Contact Bay Area IT Solutions, Inc. to learn how we can help you integrate the tools you need to enable your workers to reach their full potential.
Modernize sales productivity
Cut through the distractions of the digital age with the customizable Dynamics 365 for Sales Professional. Tailor the software to suit your needs, processes, and goals.
October 9, 2019
Bootiful Azure: Taking Your First Steps with Microsoft Azure (1/6)
As the first of six installments in this informational series, users of Spring can learn how to get started coding their applications via Microsoft Azure, leveraging all the unique tools and benefits along the way.
October 8, 2019
Customer Experience in Financial Services and the Influence of Technology
The future of technology is uncertain, but there's one thing we do know: customer experience is going to play a larger role in the success of businesses from here on out. Servicing customers with an omnichannel experience is the key to a great customer experience. Bay Area IT Solutions, Inc. can help. We're experts in helping businesses adopt the right tech and provide exceptional customer experiences. Contact us for more information.
Workplace Agility: The True Secret To Improving Productivity And Efficiency
How do you maintain easy collaboration, save costs, pull talent from everywhere, and provide employees with the flexibility to work where and when they want? Some employers are adopting SaaS platforms and the cloud to facilitate remote work safely and simply. Tools like Microsoft 365 and Skype are invaluable assets to a modern agile workplace. But adoption requires planning to execute. With experts from Bay Area IT Solutions, Inc. at your side, you'll be ready for the modern workplace, and so will your employees.
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Intelligent security for the modern workplace
Microsoft 365 E5 security covers a broad range of functions that work together to produce an easy-to-implement, effective, and cohesive system that is backed by continuous learning through ever expanding data.
Modernizing the Data Estate with Azure | Rohan Kumar
What do you hope a modern estate will bring you? When Microsoft began their own transformation, they realized that they wanted a system that would allow them to empower employees, deeply engage with customers, develop new and better products, and increase agility and efficiency in operations. They also realized that at the center of making all this possible was data and AI capabilities. How could their learning experience help your business? Check out this video to find out.
October 7, 2019
Customer story: Moneris and Dynamics 365
How do you manage customer interaction? Chances are, there's room for improvement, and you can do a better job. Moneris, a debt and payment processing firm, saw the potential of upgrading their customer relationship solution. That's why they chose Dynamics 365. They required a business management solution that could help them give their customers personalized service. You can do the same. Adopting new tech can be a challenge, that's why at Bay Area IT Solutions, Inc., we're here to help. Contact us today to find out more.
Customer Story: Puma and Office 365
Puma, the international sports brand, is modernizing its workplace with a suite of tools that their employees are already familiar with--Microsoft 365. While it seems like a no brainer, the process to change your entire IT infrastructure can be complicated. That's why Bay Area IT Solutions, Inc. is here to help. We have the resources, experience, and knowledge needed to help you with your cloud integration. Contact us to find out how.
Streamline seller workflows
Explore the possibilities and efficiencies that interconnected Dynamics 365 can bring to your sales team.
Modernizing the Data Estate with Azure | Rachita Sundar
Businesses are amassing enormous amounts of data, more than they know what to do with. Most are just using it to put together dense periodic reports explaining "what" happened too long after the fact to be of much use. Modernizing your digital workplace by moving to Azure and utilizing its AI technology can help you get a handle on your data and graduate from "what" happened to "how" it happened and, finally, to what "will" happen to inform what you should do all within a relevant period of time.
October 2, 2019
User experience overview animation
Take a stroll through the elegant Dynamics 365 Business Central interface and explore its extensive capabilities.
Don't let Cloud security fall through the cracks
This article explores the shared responsibility between cloud and app vendors and enterprises when it comes to the security of an enterprise's cloud information. Who is responsible for what, and what can you do to ensure your name is kept out of the headlines?
October 1, 2019
THE MICROSOFT DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION SERIES Part 2: Engaging Customers
Customer engagement in the digital age provides amazing new opportunities to develop customer loyalty. Show your customers what they mean to your organization by constantly driving the differentiation, specialization, and expertise of your business and make sure your customer's needs are met. Ensure your customer's success and realize the rewards. Contact Bay Area IT Solutions, Inc. to find out how we can help you integrate a digital solution for engaging with your customers today.
View: THE MICROSOFT DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION SERIES Part 2: Engaging Customers
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Dynamics 365 for Customer Service - Create lifetime customers
Delivering a personalized customer experience is important for any business. Customers want to know they'll be taken care of, and it's up to every business to communicate that message. With a solution like Dynamics 365, you can empower your agents with artificial intelligence‒derived recommendations to ensure they can act fast, save time on every customer interaction, and resolve customer issues. Contact us to find out how we can help you integrate this solution today.
View: Dynamics 365 for Customer Service - Create lifetime customers
Why Cloud Customer Flyer
If you're still using an old, outdated email platform, you could be losing a considerable amount of time every week and opening your email content to malicious actors. With the capabilities of modern email platforms, you can access email on the go with flexible usage options and sync your email, calendar, and contacts wherever you go. It's one way in which you can build a modern agile workplace for your employees. Curious on how to adopt a new email platform? Contact us to find out more information and learn how we can help.
September 30, 2019
Kelly Roofing keynote demonstration
Our examination and celebration of the Kelly Roofing success story comes full circle in this keynote demonstration. Hear the story from owner Ken Kelly himself and dive into the specific ways Kelly Roofing has utilized the capabilities of Dynamics 365 to improve efficiency and to gain valuable forward-thinking insight into their business.
Customer Story: Kier Group PLC
As part of its plan to move toward becoming part of the FTSE 100, Keir Group PLC knew that it needed to overhaul its IT systems. Watch how Microsoft 365 E5 was able to meet their security needs while still providing an accessible and easy-to-use system for their largely remote workforce.
Azure SQL Database Managed Instance
Check out the ways in which Azure SQL Database Managed Instance is designed to provide you with exactly what your business needs so you can save money without missing a beat.
September 25, 2019
Azure SQL or SQL Server: Which one is right for you?
What makes Azure SQL different from SQL Server? Learn the technical differences, the reasons behind them, and the potential impact on your business in this article.
The millennial arrival and the evolution of the modern workplace
The modern workplace is characterized by cloud-based collaboration tools, untethered workspaces, and more and more, by millennials. In fact, millennials will make up 75% of the workforce by 2030. This article explores how businesses continue to evolve in step with a workforce that prioritizes work-life integration and expects access, flexibility, and technology that will not only contribute to personal growth but enable them to change the world.
September 24, 2019
Why a 'Personal' Customer Experience Is Critical to Your Business' Success
This article highlights a few key reasons why businesses should embrace personalization as a powerful tool to stay competitive with customers and to differentiate themselves from competition. 70% of consumers say a company's understanding of their individual needs influences their loyalty. Consumers expect personalized experiences, and they build trust with those that are transparent about the data they collect.
AI leveling the playing field with Dynamics 365
Explore the ways in which technology is once again shifting the way we do business and the opportunities available to small businesses with increased access to affordable AI and cloud service technologies.
Customer story: Special Olympics
The Special Olympics, a global nonprofit that celebrates differences and promotes acceptance, inclusion, and healthy competition, is using technology to achieve more. The organization uses the Microsoft Cloud to track and access data for nearly 5 million athletes in 170 countries. Cloud technology has freed up innumerable hours that have been reinvested to empower athletes and change the world.
Customer story: Miral
An Abu Dhabi leisure company, Miral, recently embarked on a digital transformation journey to make Yas Island a top travel destination. With Microsoft Cloud technology, the company is using data insights to understand customer behavior and to create seamless and personalized customer experiences.
Smooth success: How we gained manufacturing insights with Dynamics 365 Business Central
Check out the ways in which Dynamics 365 allowed Friction Technology to improve efficiency and customer service in the present and opened the door for growth and innovation in the future.
September 23, 2019
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How to fight back if you've been hacked
There is more than one stage in a cyberattack. Utilize this resource to learn how to protect yourself at each level and how to identify if you have been hacked.
Customer Story: SitePro - part 6
Take a closer look at the ways in which SitePro is able to save their customers valuable time by transporting data almost instantly over the cloud.
September 18, 2019
Business Central AI infographic
AI has the power to revolutionize the way you utilize your own data. Check out the ways in which AI can improve your business decision making.
The feds and the states are embracing privacy law - what that means to your business
A look into what changes businesses may be experiencing in the realm of customer data use and privacy compliance requirements, and how to effectively weather these changes.
Listening to customer feedback with Azure Machine Learning
Examining years of customer data isn't easy, that's why Microsoft uses Machine Learning to help with the process. They set out to gain a better understanding of their business through data and create benefits for their organization. It's just one way that Microsoft uses technology to help their employees achieve more. You can enable your employees in the same way. Contact us to learn more.
View: Listening to customer feedback with Azure Machine Learning
September 17, 2019
How Microsoft planned and deployed Skype for Business to the Office 365 Enterprise E5 cloud
The cloud offers you the opportunity to save on IT infrastructure costs, improve employee and customer satisfaction, and accelerate time-to-market for many products, and that's not all. But simply discussing a move to the cloud won't get you those benefits or any others, that's why you need to act and begin the journey. And Bay Area IT Solutions, Inc. is here to help. Contact us today to find out how we can assist you on your journey to the cloud.
View: How Microsoft planned and deployed Skype for Business to the Office 365 Enterprise E5 cloud
Business Central UK Authority
Watch how Dynamics 365 Business Central transforms the way this small UK publishing company is able to do business by giving them the ability to respond to queries faster, effectively collaborate remotely, and rest easy, knowing their data is secure.
Business central capabilities
Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central acts as an all-in-one business management solution. It allows you to connect business financials, sales, service, and operations, streamlining business processes. With a secure platform to automate supply chains and optimize inventory levels, your business will be set up for success. If you want to sell smarter and improve customer service, contact us today to find out how we can help you integrate Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central today.
5 Reasons your organization should move to the cloud
With the proliferation of cloud technology, it's now easier than ever to migrate to a cloud services platform. With Microsoft cloud services, you can increase security, flexibility, communication, and business intelligence, and gain a host of tools you'll need to create a modern digital workplace. Contact Bay Area IT Solutions, Inc. today to find out how we can help you with the transition.
Customer Story: Qantas Airways Limited
Watch Qantas Airways tackle the challenge of keeping employees connected and focused on a common goal, even while scattered across the globe, by utilizing the cloud-based Microsoft 365.
September 16, 2019
SQL Server and Azure SQL Database GDPR Guidance
The task of GDPR compliance can be overwhelming for businesses but it doesn't have to be. This guide is intended to help businesses better understand what GDPR entails and begin the process of adapting their current security measures to meet the new requirements. Luckily for small and large businesses alike, Microsoft has done a lot of the heavy lifting when it comes to preparing the infrastructure for successful compliance.
Growing SQL Server: Features from 2008 to 2017
As the end of service approaches for SQL Server 2008, let's take a moment to reflect on where we have been and the exciting new innovations available with SQL Server 2017.
Customer Story: SitePro - part 5
SitePro is pushing the boundaries of what's possible for their oil and gas customers. To do this, they needed to be as agile and as informed as possible. They moved to Azure to enjoy the freedom and possibilities of the cloud.
September 10, 2019
Transforming The Customer Experience: Personalization
In a world of instant gratification, customers expect more from the businesses they patron. That's why you need a CRM solution that's more than just a CRM platform. You need an all-in-one business management solution to streamline and connect business processes with customer experience. It's the way of the future for a demanding generation of customers. Deliver the level of service and experience they deserve with Microsoft Dynamics 365.
Modern Digital Workplace: 5 Current Trends Making Waves In The Office
Modernizing your workplace needs to happen, but how do you go about doing it? When it comes to having a modern workplace, nothing says you're on the ball like integrating Microsoft cloud services. With Azure solutions, you can manage data with ease, and with Office 365, you can share and send documents while not having to worry about version control. It's the ease of use, familiarity, and trust you need in a cloud solution. Contact us today to learn more about Microsoft cloud services.
Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central solution proposal guide
This guide outlines the steps in creating a successful solution proposal. Following your proposal presentation, this increases the chances that a potential customer will decide that your business is best equipped to meet their needs.
View: Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central solution proposal guide
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Customer Story: 24 Hour Fitness
With Microsoft Dynamics 365 and Adobe Marketing Cloud, 24 Hour Fitness helps engage with customers to give them the tools they need to stay focused on their fitness goals. With an in-depth customer data profile, they can tailor a customer's journey to ensure they receive the guidance and encouragement that keeps them coming back for more.
September 9, 2019
Customer story: Hershey
Hershey has a lot of data that they need to share across their enterprise. Keeping their workforce mobile while being able to access that data can be tough, that's why they moved to the Microsoft cloud. With Microsoft, you can migrate to simple, distributed, cross-platform file storage without changing code. It's the first step in modernizing your IT infrastructure and business.
Why SMBs should be running their business in the cloud
Despite the proven increases in profits and security that come with moving to the cloud, many small businesses remain hesitant. This article outlines concerns many business owners have when considering the switch, and highlights many specific benefits available to cloud users, making the cloud less mysterious and more accessible than ever.
Securely run and grow your business
Learn about the ways in which Microsoft 365 better protects your business against today's threats, while remaining cost effective and scalable.
SQL Database Engine Blog: What is Azure SQL Database Managed Instance?
Curious about the new Azure SQL Database Managed Instance? This article covers specifics about the offering, including features, security, scalability, and architecture.
September 4, 2019
Dynamics 365 Business Central Webinar
Take a stroll through some of the various advantages Dynamics 365 Business Central can provide to small and midsize businesses.
5 key areas to focus on while integrating cloud-based strategies
As moving to the cloud becomes less a matter of "if" and more a matter of "when" for most companies, the follow-up question is how best to go about doing so. This article identifies several key goals or opportunities companies will want to focus on as they enter into this process.
September 3, 2019
Dynamics 365 automates complex transactions and business processes
Microsoft developed COSMIC (Customer Obsessed Solution Management and Incident Care) to help streamline the tasks required to complete a transaction. It provides a clear view of the case as it progresses and uses defined stages to show status from start to finish. It's one tool of many that your business can leverage with Microsoft Dynamics 365. Contact us for more.
View: Dynamics 365 automates complex transactions and business processes
Office 365 helps secure Microsoft from modern phishing campaigns
Cybersecurity is a critical issue at Microsoft, as it is for organizations everywhere. Microsoft processes more than 400 billion emails each month and stops over 10 million malicious emails every minute to keep their users safe and secure on the cloud. Your business can leverage the same solution to provide a secure and agile workplace for your employees. Contact us for more information.
View: Office 365 helps secure Microsoft from modern phishing campaigns
Game-changing trends E-book
Technology has become an integral part of the way business is done at every level. Luckily, the cloud has made the advantages that come with this shift available to even small companies without requiring large investments or upfront costs. This E-book outlines four technological trends that are fundamentally changing the way we do business and how to stay forward thinking and competitive in these changing times.
Customer Service Key Capabilities
Digital innovation has changed the landscape of every industry. With increased customer knowledge and commoditized products and services, businesses are focusing on customer experience to develop key differentiators from their competition. Microsoft Dynamics 365 enables consistent experiences across any combination of self- and assisted service engagements, so your customers can get a quality experience every time and Bay Area IT Solutions, Inc. can help. Contact us today.
Day in the life Retail
Retail can be demanding, that's why you need a business-class email provider that can keep up. Microsoft business-class email allows you to keep track of all your moving parts and communicate quickly with employees, suppliers, and customers. Your time is valuable, let Bay Area IT Solutions, Inc. help you make the most of it. Contact us for information on how we can help you integrate Microsoft business-class email.
September 2, 2019
Customer Story: Kelly Roofing 5
Kelly Roofing had trouble adapting their old systems to the upswing in business after Hurricane Irma. Now with Microsoft 365, they have not only integrated their various business processes into a single system, they have the ability to scale all of these processes to meet new unexpected increases in demand.
Customer Story: Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company
Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company is ensuring they have the tools necessary to stay at the forefront of innovation by keeping their entire company connected and secure through Microsoft 365.
WS + SQL 2008 Extended Security Updates FAQ
As the end of support for Windows Server SQL Server 2008/2008 R2 approaches, questions will undoubtedly arise, especially relating to the Extended Security Updates offered by Microsoft. This document is here to answer those questions.
Discover the benefits of modernization and save with Azure SQL Database Managed Instance
Why move your on-premises SQL Server to the Azure cloud? Check out this infographic to learn about the savings and latest technological benefits of switching to Azure SQL Database Managed Instance.
View: Discover the benefits of modernization and save with Azure SQL Database Managed Instance
Customer Story: SitePro - part 4
SitePro is harnessing the power of technology through the IoT and cloud capabilities to help their customers create safer, more efficient work environments.
August 28, 2019
Three reasons why Windows Server and SQL Server customers continue to choose Azure
For the past 25 years, companies of every size have trusted Windows Server and SQL Server to run their business-critical workloads. In fact, more than 70 percent of on-premises server workloads today run on Windows Server.
How To Win With A Tech-Forward Customer Experience
This article explores the role of technology in curating customer experience. In an era when customers often view businesses, products, and services as commodities, customer experience is becoming a key differentiator.
August 27, 2019
What is Cloud Migration and Why is it Important
Why cloud? The digital revolution has empowered customers with more choices, requiring businesses to exchange outdated practices with modern solutions in a competitive landscape. In response, growth and adoption of cloud services are increasing across industries and businesses. This article explores six advantages of choosing the cloud.
Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central capabilities doc
This document outlines the key benefits and capabilities of Dynamics 365 for SMBs across all aspects of their business.
View: Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central capabilities doc
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Customer story: Jumeirah Hotels
Jumeirah Hotels & Resorts--owners of some of the world's most luxurious hotels--has a reputation for delivering world-class hospitality. In their tradition of excellence, the company compiles data through its customer loyalty program to customize and deliver personalized messaging. This has resulted in nearly 50% customer engagement and a 10% increase of year-over-year revenue.
Customer story: Toronto Zoo
Moving from pen and paper to a culture of cloud-based technology, the Toronto Zoo has revolutionized the way employees work. Using Office 365, they have improved internal processes and data sharing with partners around the world.
August 26, 2019
SMB security: infographic
This infographic outlines common security breach scenarios caused by human error and the ways in which Microsoft 365 is addressing these problems through built-in security protocols.
Customer Story: SitePro - part 3
This week, delve deeper into the multiple service offerings from Azure that allow SitePro to run their entire turnkey application from this single platform.
August 20, 2019
Business owners guide E-book
This E-book outlines common problems that start to occur for small businesses as they outgrow their current systems and what business owners should keep in mind when looking for potential solutions.
With GDPR Disrupting Email Marketing, LinkedIn Is the Best Alternative
This article explores how marketers can get ahead of the curve when moving to LinkedIn-centered marketing in response to the passage of General Data Protection Regulation, an EU data protection law that is disrupting common email marketing strategies.
Transforming sales: Microsoft removes obstacles and gives back time with Dynamics 365
Digital transformation has reached every business, including Microsoft. With the change, Microsoft has undergone a revamp of their sales culture. With tools like Dynamics 365, Azure cloud solutions, and Office productivity, they've created a curated sales experience that eliminates hours of administrative processes to empower sellers with innovative tools.
View: Transforming sales: Microsoft removes obstacles and gives back time with Dynamics 365
Microsoft migrates 150,000 mailboxes to Exchange Online
Before releasing Office 365 to the public, Microsoft recognized the advantage--to both users and the company--of migrating to Exchange Online. Exchange Online offers the ability to access email from anywhere on any device and much more. Exchange Online is one way in which Microsoft chose to modernize its business. Bay Area IT Solutions, Inc. and Microsoft want you to have a modern, agile workplace. Contact us for more information on how we can help you migrate to the cloud.
View: Microsoft migrates 150,000 mailboxes to Exchange Online
Manage your entire business with an all-in-one business management solution.
August 19, 2019
Microsoft Dynamics for Customer Service
How do you keep track of your customers? Microsoft Dynamics 365 is the next generation of intelligent business applications that enable your organization to grow, evolve, and transform. These applications unify CRM and ERP capabilities with purpose-built applications that work seamlessly together to help manage specific business functions.
Day in the life--Financial services
Ever wonder what a day in the life of a financial services professional is like? With cloud email, partners can manage their business on the go and safeguard customer data. With Outlook, features like FindTime make it easy to identify gaps in schedules and set meetings, saving valuable time. Bay Area IT Solutions, Inc. and Microsoft want you to have access to professional cloud email for your mobile and agile business. Contact us today to learn more.
Kelly Roofing - Taking Business to the Next Level with Microsoft Dynamics
Using Dynamics 365 Business Central keeps Kelly Roofing's business up-to-date and secure.
SQL Server 2008 and 2008 R2 end of support is coming
Sadly, all things must come to an end. With end of support coming up for SQL Server 2008 and 2008 R2, use this document to help you make a smooth transition and learn about the new features arriving with SQL Server 2017 and Azure SQL Database Managed Instance.
The total economic impact of Microsoft Azure SQL Database managed instance
What is the economic impact of switching from an on-premises SQL Server to Azure? Microsoft asked Forrester to find out. Four client interviews later, the results are in: See how you can save by switching to Azure!
View: The total economic impact of Microsoft Azure SQL Database managed instance
Customer story: RLH Corporation
Discover how Red Lion Hotels Corporation used Dynamics 365, Microsoft Teams, and Office 365 to digitally transform their internal processes to drive higher guest satisfaction. Faced with data-quality issues, the challenges of combining two legacy CRM platforms, and a need to improve internal communications, RLH Corporation consolidated disparate systems into a single platform.
August 14, 2019
Announcing new options for SQL Server 2008 and Windows Server 2008 End of Support
This article outlines the end of support timeline for SQL Server 2008 and 2008 R2 and Windows Server 2008 and 2008 R2, as well as options and recommendations for current users moving forward.
August 13, 2019
Why Cloud (By Default) Gives You Security You Couldn't Afford Otherwise
Regardless of your industry, security should be a top concern. That's what makes moving to the cloud so attractive for IT pros. The increased mobility, flexibility, and ability to go serverless all have their place but the default security upgrade you receive by moving to the cloud is undeniably one of the greatest benefits. Microsoft and Bay Area IT Solutions, Inc. can help you find the solution that's right for your organization. Contact us today to find out more.
Technology Trends That Will Radically Change The Face Of Customer Care
Customer service has been around for a long time. But with new tech, customer service is changing rapidly. Microsoft Dynamics 365 has the capability to radically improve your customer service experience. Drive business results with next-generation, multi-channel applications that infuse artificial intelligence (AI), mixed reality, social, and mobile capabilities for rapid innovation.
It's time for small and midsized businesses to finally move beyond information silos
Learn how the integrated Dynamics 365 Business Central opens the door for small and medium size businesses to make the most of their data and avoid troublesome inefficiencies.
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Customer story: TransBlue
Flexibility and mobility are important for any businesses operating in today's digital age. Especially for small businesses. Without a robust IT department, TransBlue took on the challenge of modernizing their workplace with Microsoft 365. With tools like Skype and Teams, they can collaborate from afar saving them time and resources. Bay Area IT Solutions, Inc. wants to help you modernize your workplace. Contact us today for more information on how we can help.
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August 12, 2019
Customer story: Providence St. Joseph Health
Providence St. Joseph Health is moving beyond the typical call center to provide more personalized experiences for patients. Liaisons from its Patient & Provider Engagement Center are solving industry-wide challenges--creating more personalized patient experiences, better addressing patient needs, and helping patients access the right care with the right providers.
Kelly Roofing - Providing excellent customer service with the support of Microsoft Dynamics
Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central offers the unique ability to run all aspects of a business through a single, customizable system. For Kelly Roofing, this means a platform that can grow with them, allowing them to provide the best possible service to their customers at all times.
Security - common mistakes
This graphic identifies common security weaknesses that make small businesses easy targets for cybercriminals and provides insight on how best to address them.
Customer Story: SitePro video 2
Watch SitePro combine on-site data and Azure to bring value and efficiency to their customers' site management operations.
Customer Story: SitePro
SitePro gained a competitive advantage by combining onsite sensors and data collection with online data processing and management using Microsoft Azure. As a result, they were able to provide faster and more effective service to their customers, which in turn strengthened the offerings of their customers. It's a win for everyone.
August 5, 2019
Dynamics 365 better together with Office 365 E-book
Learn how Dynamics 365 Business Central can help small businesses eliminate redundancy, increase effectiveness, and decrease response times at every level.
How The Compliance Function Is Evolving In 2018 -- Five Key Findings
As the rate of game-changing technological shifts continue to increase across multiple industries, compliance functions will need to reevaluate how they go about examining risk and implementing risk-management protocols. What should compliance functions be doing now to proactively adapt to this changing environment? And what can you do to help them along this journey?
Kelly Roofing uses Dynamics 365 to connect and grow their business
Watch how a family-owned roofing business in Naples, FL that outgrew their existing accounting solution used Dynamics 365 Business Central to centralize finance, operations, and sales functionality and streamline business processes.
Customer Story: Kelly Roofing
Watch Kelly Roofing weather even the toughest business challenges using the efficient and integrated Dynamics 365.
Customer Story: Marshall Public Schools
Marshall Public Schools are preparing their students for life after graduation using Windows 10 in S Mode. Students are able to gain valuable technological skills without requiring the school district to sacrifice security.
July 30, 2019
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July 29, 2019
Affinity Workforce secures its future with Microsoft 365
Watch Affinity Workforce tackle modern security challenges with ease, utilizing the integrated and user-friendly Microsoft 365. With the heavy lifting of security already done, companies can save money and employees can focus on getting straight to the task at hand.
May 28, 2019
Fake cryptocurrency apps crop up on Google Play as bitcoin price rises
ESET researchers have analyzed fake cryptocurrency wallets emerging on Google Play at the time of bitcoin’s renewed growth
May 2019 has seen bitcoin growing, with its price climbing to its
highest points since September 2018. Not surprisingly, cybercrooks were
quick to notice this development and started upping their efforts in
targeting cryptocurrency users with various scams and malicious apps.
One such app was recently spotted on Google Play by Reddit users, impersonating the popular hardware cryptocurrency wallet Trezor
and using the name “Trezor Mobile Wallet”. We haven’t previously seen
malware misusing Trezor’s branding and were curious about the
capabilities of such a fake app. After all, Trezor offers hardware
wallets that require physical manipulation and authentication via PIN,
or knowledge of the so called recovery seed, to access the stored
cryptocurrency. Similar constraints apply to its official app, “TREZOR Manager”.
Analyzing the fake app, we found that:
- it can’t to do any harm to Trezor users given Trezor’s multiple security layers;
- it is connected to a fake cryptocurrency wallet app named “Coin Wallet – Bitcoin, Ripple, Ethereum, Tether”, which is capable of scamming unsuspecting users out of money; and
- both these apps were created based on an app template sold online.
We have reported the fake Trezor app to Google’s security teams and reached out to Trezor about the publication of this blogpost. Trezor confirmed the fake app did not pose a direct threat to their users. However, they did express concern that the email addresses collected via fake apps such as this one could be later misused for phishing campaigns targeted against Trezor users.
At the time of writing, neither the fake Trezor app nor the Coin Wallet app are available on Google Play.
The fake Trezor app
The app masquerading as a mobile wallet for Trezor was uploaded to Google Play on May 1, 2019 under the developer name “Trezor Inc.”, as seen in Figure 1. Overall, the app’s page on Google Play appeared trustworthy – the app name, developer name, app category, app description and images all seem legitimate at first glance. At the time of our analysis, the fake app even came up as the second result when searching for “Trezor” on Google Play, right after Trezor’s official app.
What does it do?
The convincing disguise, however, begins and ends on Google Play. After installation, the icon that appears on users’ screens differs from the one seen on Google Play, which serves as a clear indicator of something fishy. The icon of the installed app has “Coin Wallet” in it, as seen in Figure 2.
Furthermore, when users launch the app, a generic login screen is displayed, with no mention of Trezor, as seen in Figure 3. This is another indicator we are not dealing with a legitimate app. This generic screen is used to phish for login credentials – but it is unclear exactly what credentials, and what possible use they could be to attackers. Either way, whatever users enter into the fake login form is sent to the attacker’s server, as shown in Figure 4.
The Coin Wallet app
The Coin Wallet app and the fake Trezor app described in the previous section have a lot in common – besides using the same server, they also overlap in code and interface. The Coin Wallet app uses the same icon that we have seen in the fake Trezor app after installation.
On its website, the Coin Wallet app is described as the “World’s leading Coin Wallet”, as seen in Figure 5.
The website contains a link to Google Play, where the app was available from February 7, 2019 until May 5, 2019 under the name “Coin Wallet – Bitcoin, Ripple, Ethereum, Tether”, as seen in Figure 6. During that time, it was installed by more than 1000 users.
The website also appears to link to Apple’s App Store, but clicking the “Available on the App Store” button only leads to the URL of the PNG image.
What does it do?
The app claims it lets its users create wallets for various cryptocurrencies. However, its actual purpose is to trick users into transferring cryptocurrency into the attackers’ wallets – a classic case of what we named wallet address scams in our previous research of cryptocurrency-targeting malware.
How this works is that the app pretends to generate a unique wallet address where users can transfer their coins. In reality, this address belongs to the attackers’ wallet, as only they have the private key necessary for accessing the funds. The attackers have one wallet for each supported cryptocurrency – 13 wallets altogether – and all victims with any specific targeted cryptocurrency are given the same wallet address.
Looking at the shared graphic elements of this and the fraudulent Trezor app, it seems that both have been created on the same basis. A Google search for “coinwallet app template” returns a generic “Android cryptocurrency wallet template” available for $40. The template itself is a benign asset turned malicious in the hands of attackers; however, we see here how such assets may be used by more attackers to create deceptive apps quickly and cheaply.
How to stay safe
If bitcoin continues its growth trend, we can expect more cryptocurrency scam apps to emerge in the official Android app store and elsewhere. When installing apps, it is important to stick to some basic security principles – even more so when money is at stake.- Only trust cryptocurrency-related and other finance apps if they are linked from the official website of the service
- Only enter your sensitive information into online forms if you are certain of their security and legitimacy
- Keep your device updated
- Use a reputable mobile security solution to block and remove threats
March 21, 2019
Facebook staff had access to millions of people's passwords
Facebook revealed on Thursday it didn't properly mask the passwords of hundreds of millions of it users and stored them in an internal database that could be accessed by its staff.
The company said it discovered the passwords during a security review in January and launched an investigation. Facebook did not say for how long they had been storing passwords in this way.
It will be notifying hundreds of millions of Facebook users and tens of thousands of Instagram users if their passwords were involved.
"To be clear, these passwords were never visible to anyone outside of Facebook and we have found no evidence to date that anyone internally abused or improperly accessed them," Pedro Canahuati, a Facebook vice president wrote on Thursday.
He added that Facebook typically "masks people's passwords when they create an account so that no one at the company can see them."
The news was first reported by Krebs on Security.
The company said it discovered the passwords during a security review in January and launched an investigation. Facebook did not say for how long they had been storing passwords in this way.
It will be notifying hundreds of millions of Facebook users and tens of thousands of Instagram users if their passwords were involved.
"To be clear, these passwords were never visible to anyone outside of Facebook and we have found no evidence to date that anyone internally abused or improperly accessed them," Pedro Canahuati, a Facebook vice president wrote on Thursday.
He added that Facebook typically "masks people's passwords when they create an account so that no one at the company can see them."
The news was first reported by Krebs on Security.
March 20, 2019
The iPhone 11 could scan the veins in your face to unlock
Apple’s upcoming iPhone 11 may use a form of Face ID that scans veins to determine who’s picking it up, according to newly discovered patents.
The patent, filed in February 2018 and discovered by BGR, shows a front-facing camera on a device which scans the veins and blood vessels in a user’s face to determine who’s using it, a feature called 'subepidermal imaging'.
This camera would scan your face, possibly using infrared, and the device’s processor would compute the information using a range of processes that are also detailed in the patents, which involve scoring the scan based on previous templates and scans.
While a patent is no guarantee that a feature will be included in a device – this patent was filed before the release of the iPhone XS, and the feature didn’t make it into that phone – it would be a small but useful step in improving the security of Apple’s handsets.
Why not Face ID?
If Apple did choose to use this feature for the iPhone 11, it wouldn’t be the first company to use vein recognition as a way to unlock a phone – the LG G8 ThinQ will also have this tech when it releases at some point in mid-2019.The reason many companies are moving from face recognition to veins is that some phones, like the Samsung Galaxy S10, can be tricked into unlocking for the wrong user by masks or photographs, but subepidermal imaging removes this risk.
The patent includes a rough sketch of whatever iPhone or iPad would use this technology, including its camera, which would have a flood illuminator and speckle illuminator, two forms of imaging technology, as well as the main sensor – but we can’t tell anything else about the device from the picture.
The iPhone 11 launch is still a way out, given that Apple always launches its flagship handset towards the end of the year
How to set up emergency location sharing on Android, iOS
Smartphones are spectacular for snapping photos, scanning the news, and sending messages, but they can also be literal lifesavers if you take the time to set them up before the need arises.
Both Android and iOS have easy-to-use systems for sharing your location with a friend, family member, or other trusted contact in an emergency. You can even create connections that’ll allow you to check up on loved ones to see if their phone has detected movement lately and then request an automated location update if you’re unable to reach them.
The key to all of this is to configure your emergency system ahead of time so it’ll be available in case an actual emergency occurs. Take two minutes now, and then rest easy knowing your phone’s ready.
The simple option for iOS
If you’ve got an iPhone, Apple offers a built-in Emergency SOS system that gives you a quick way to call 911 (or the equivalent emergency service provider) and then alert a group of predefined emergency contacts — all in one fell swoop
To start, you need to tell your phone who your emergency contacts are:
- Open the Health app.
- Tap the “Medical ID” tab.
- Tap “Edit.” (If you haven’t yet created a medical ID, you’ll need to do that first.)
- Find the “Add emergency contact” option, and add however many people you want.
Apple’s iOS Health app holds the key to configuring emergency location sharing on an iPhone.
Now, if you’re ever in an emergency situation with an iPhone 8 or later:
- Press and hold the power button along with either volume button, and you’ll see an “Emergency SOS” countdown appear on your screen.
- Keep holding both buttons until the countdown ends.
- Your iPhone will automatically call 911, and as soon as the call disconnects, the phone will text your emergency contacts with your current location.
The simple option for Android
Android doesn’t have a similar all-in-one function, though it does provide a way to offer emergency services information about a preassigned emergency contact from the lock screen. While the setup may differ somewhat depending on what phone you have and which version of Android it runs, the basics should be the same.
- Go to your phone’s lock screen. (You don’t have a screen lock set? Why not?)
- Look for the word “Emergency” at the bottom of the lock screen. Tap on that.
- Tap on “Emergency information” and then on the pencil symbol (or, depending on your phone, on “Add”). You’ll be asked to put in your PIN or lock pattern.
- This will bring you to your Emergency information screen where you can add personal information (such as blood type or any existing medical conditions) and any contacts you want to be notified.
For a more robust setup in which you can share and request locations with trusted contacts — without needing to make a 911 call — download Google’s Trusted Contacts app for Android or iOS. Once you’ve signed in, create your list of connections.
- Tap the “Add Contacts” box on the app’s main screen.
- Find and tap the name of anyone you want to add.
- Once that person has approved your request (and installed the app onto their phone as well), you’ll always be able to see if they’ve been active recently and also if their phone’s battery is critically low.
- On the app’s main screen, select the person with whom you want to share your location.
- Tap “Send location alert now.”
- Your location will be shared for 24 hours or until you hit the “Stop” button.
And to request someone else’s location:
- Tap the person’s name on the app’s main screen.
- Tap “Ask for [person’s] location.”
- The app will alert the person to your request, and if they don’t respond within a set period of time, it’ll automatically share their location with you.
By default, Google’s Trusted Contacts app will share a requested location after five minutes without a response.
It’s the type of thing you hope you’ll never need, but with loved ones, in particular, it can bring valuable peace of mind to have it standing by just in case.
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