Business Backbone
Computers (IT Resources)
Imagine your business not having access to your computers, what would happen? Not much!
Although they all show a little attitude from time to time, a computer is the perfect
employee. Their hours are not regulated, they infrequently take time off, they cost little to
run and reduce overhead costs.
But then again, if a computer has not been provided with the proper security or anti-virus
measures, your system may come crashing down. This is why an IT Resources Policy is essential.
IT Resources Policy
As business becomes more involved with technology, employees have to understand what is and
isn't allowed when it software, email, the Internet and private use of office computers.
- So what are the usual Achilles heals
- No backups - if your system is attacked by a virus or a hacker, your need to be able to
replace the data that may be destroyed (see the Backup Centre)
- No virus software - this is often freely available on the Internet, so there is no excuse
not to have it.
- Internet use - employees using the internet for non-business activities cost employers
millions of dollars every year, your policy needs to address this issue.
- Email etiquette - few small business owners realize that an exchange of emails can lead
to a legally enforceable contract. Email etiquette needs to be addressed so that the business
is not sued for defamation. The downloading of improper images from the web can lead to
complaints of sexual harassment and bullying.
- Personal computer use - Uploading personal files that are infected with a virus to a work
computer may cause irreparable damage to the system. Alternatively, employees copying data
and files that have substantial worth to your business for either personal or future
commercial use must be prohibited.
All businesses need to have policies on what employees can and cannot do in this
electronic area.
Confidentiality Agreements
When discussing you ideas, products or services with another party, you need to have the
other party sign a Confidentiality Agreement. This document will ensure that the other
person will not walk away from the meeting and use your ideas to their benefit. It is
essential that you do this.
A Confidentiality Agreement sets out the terms and conditions upon which you are prepared
to show this other person certain information or discuss ideas owned by your business. The
document will record precisely the information/idea to be discussed, the fact that the other
party cannot use the information/idea for their benefit and the period that these terms will
continue to apply.