Monthly Archives: April 2023

News, Tax

Inheritance experts uncover billions of pounds missing through tax avoidance share swindle

 

Perane urges Chancellor and Treasury select committee to launch urgent inquiry

Inheritance experts, Perane, have sounded the alarm on billions of pounds owed to His Majesty’s Revenue and Customs (HMRC) through deceased shareholdings which are slipping under the taxman’s radar.

Perane has spent the last 12 months developing a pioneering deceased share ownership search tool which has now revealed a massive black hole in HMRC’s tax revenues caused by inheritance tax swindlers.

In just one case, uncovered in the last few weeks by Perane, an executor failed to declare hundreds of thousands of pounds worth of shares on an inheritance where property and share assets amounted to three quarters of a million pounds.

Instead of declaring £400,000 worth of shares on an estate valued at £750,000, the executor declared only £149,626 in total– a figure which just happened to fall £374 under the threshold for inheritance tax (IHT). At the time, in 1993, IHT was set at £150,000.

 

 

Bruce Cane, CEO of Perane, said: “What we have uncovered is constructive white collar fraud on a black market scale, with shares moving unspotted and undeclared through the generations.

“Perane’s unique data suggests that billions of pounds are being lost to the taxman because executors fail to declare inheritance, in many cases engaging in illegal and deliberate tax evasion.

“Perane has also discovered that a significant number of unscrupulous individuals are avoiding tax using FTSE shareholdings, by failing to declare the transfer of share ownership sometime after a death occurs.”

 

According to Perane, high levels of fraud are occurring because necessary legal checks are not being conducted, and in some cases because solicitors and professional executors are unwittingly facilitating it.

 

Cane added: “With shares going undeclared and inheritance tax going unpaid, law-abiding taxpayers, and the country, are being well and truly ripped off often by those with the most money.

“That’s why we have written to the Chancellor urging him to act immediately to stop the shareholding tax-swindlers, and to the Treasury select committee urging them to immediately launch an inquiry into how much money is going missing every year.”

 

Although HMRC is putting more resources into targeting the estates of wealthy deceased individuals, Perane’s tool could be used to generate tens of millions of pounds more in unpaid taxes from those engaged in evasion, deliberately or otherwise.

Perane’s share search tool looks at historic probates and checks what shareholdings are held by registrar, stock, and value. That data is then matched to the executor. Perane can also spot if the shares are suspected of being transferred to another family member at the registered address.

In another case uncovered by Perane, a non-legal lay executor has so far failed to distribute £143,000 of shares to other family beneficiaries since 2006, instead squirrelling away the money. That means £57,000 of inheritance tax has gone unpaid to HMRC.

In addition, in a small sample of 200 probate cases, Perane located:

  •     undeclared shareholdings above inheritance tax level where £140,000 was due to HMRC
  •     a further £150k where the lay executors had not declared the shareholdings and were taking the dividends

Inheritance tax is currently payable at a rate of 40%, paid on the value of any estate above £325,000.

 

Solicitor Michelle Tongue from Private Client Solicitors, Manchester, said: “When an estate is subject to an inheritance tax liability, the personal representatives must complete a comprehensive form in which they must provide accurate valuations of all assets, including properties.

“HMRC are querying more and more of these forms, and are clearly actively stepping up efforts to recover money from families who incorrectly declare the value of an estate and underpay their inheritance tax bill.”

 

Perane has found that between 2% and 3% of searches reveal shareholdings that probate searches have failed to uncover during administration, dating back into the 1990s.

Perane’s findings are being provided to HMRC so that collection of outstanding tax can be made from the executors, since the stock is still held and can be easily sold.

Food & Drink, News

Nourish Food & Drink Innovation Conference comes to Barnham Broom

On Wednesday 29th March the first Nourish food & drink innovation conference was held at Barnham Broom, bringing together a group of speakers and attendees committed to shaping the future of food and drink in the Norfolk and Suffolk. Hosted by The Broadland Food Innovation Centre Project , a dynamic new project with the aim of making a bold difference

to local food and drink producers by supporting and nurturing with people, services and funding that will enable them to flourish. The sell-out conference saw over 120 attendees come together from across the region with many more joining virtually.

The Conference was curated by the University of East Anglia’s (UEA) Food Innovation Cluster , who brought together an inspiring roster of entrepreneurs, thought leaders and brand builders from the world of food and drink. Attended by local SMEs and start-ups this inaugural collaborative and innovative think tank event tackled ideas, issues and decisions facing small businesses today. From environmental and sustainable considerations; the impact of rising costs; the food supply chain, to advice around the skills and tools that will help businesses grow and develop.

Speaker James Averdieck, Gü and The Coconut Collaborative said:
“UEA have created a thriving entrepreneurial cluster of food companies in East Anglia, which will really help startup companies in their early years. It was a very successful event – Good speakers , great debates and an engaging audience with bundles of energy.”

Hannah Springham, speaker and co-founder of Farmyard Frozen said: “It was a totally wonderful event! By far the best I’ve been to in this sector. This is Edinburgh Film & Tv Festival for Food & Drink. A genuinely inspiring day with so much to take away from it.”

Highlights from the Conference:

  • Cassandra Stavrou, Founder of PROPER Snacks inspired the audience with the story of her success and shared advice about how to embrace creativity and emotion within all aspects of your business.
  • James Averdieck, Founder of Gü & Coconut Collaborative told his story from a job in middle management to founding a number of successful global brands – as well as being open about the things that haven’t always gone so well.
  • Hannah Springham, Founder of Farmyard Frozen in Norwich shared the journey that she and her chef partner took in lockdown to innovate the frozen food sector with restaurant quality food and how they look after the welfare and mental health of their team.
  • Joseph Cordy, Head of Commercial at Paddy & Scott's Coffee demonstrated how the business sustainability and ethical values are central to how they do business and how the brand decided to invest in the farms and community they work with in Kenya. This sustainable and ethical approach feeds into the wellbeing of the business.
  • Professor Andrew Fearne of Norwich Business School, UEA, started his presentation with an energising dance to House of Pain’s ‘Jump Around’ whilst following with a fascinating talk on the tools they have developed to help small businesses.

The afternoon session included a series of hands-on workshops so that attendees could deep-dive into a number of key areas from how to innovate and develop your food and drink products with Fergus Fitzgerald of Adnams and how the Broadland Food Innovation Centre Project can support local business, amongst other things.

The event concluded with a drinks reception that encouraged all guests to network and make vital connections. Throughout the day, over £600 was raised for Nourishing Norfolk and Suffolk Community Foundation with a raffle full of local food and drink and a silent auction.

Asia, News, Robotics, RPA, Tech, Technology

Syntotech joins Singapore Deep-Tech Alliance

Advanced engineering company Synthotech has joined the Singapore Deep-Tech Alliance to accelerate its export plans in the region.

The Singapore Deep-Tech Alliance (SDTA) is a technology venture builder with an emphasis on sustainability. It is collaborating with Innovate UK to introduce the Innovate UK Global Incubator Program in Singapore.

The initiative will help creative UK businesses establish high-potential relationships with Singapore’s advanced manufacturing sector.

Harrogate-based Synovate, part of the Synthotech Group, develops advanced robots that can detect leaks and fix pipes. The LeakVISION robots can be deployed remotely for long distances, which speeds up the investigation process to aid safety and reduce environmental impact.

 

Simon Langdale, engineering director at Synthotech, said: “Singapore has a world-renowned industrial ecosystem. In partnership with Innovate UK, we have teamed up with SDTA to rapidly expand our exports to Singapore and other markets in the region. We will collaborate with like-minded industry partners to further develop innovative solutions and contribute to the region’s dynamism.

“Thanks to the support of Innovate UK, we are able to accelerate our exports around the world, which will fuel our expansion to create more jobs at our headquarters in Harrogate and a further investment in advanced technology.”

The partnership between SDTA and the UK’s national innovation agency gives tech start-ups and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) from the UK access to Singapore’s companies, universities, labs, and investors, enabling innovators to collaborate with their counterparts to promote the adoption of novel technologies for manufacturing.

The engineering business has spent over £1.2 million to create advanced robots that can find and repair leaks in water and gas pipes.

It is also driving technology partnerships with the utility sector and academic institutions through its innovation division, Synovate, which works with a range of utility companies, academic institutions and funding bodies to accelerate the development and roll-out of new technologies for the energy transition.

 

The Synthotech Group employs 38 people in the UK and has partnerships worldwide to deploy its technology and resell engineering products. It hit a milestone of £5m in revenue in 2022.

Synthotech’s engineers design and build a wide range of products that are distributed globally. It is a leading supplier of live access CCTV and survey systems to the energy industry. While gas engineers use its maintenance products in domestic and industrial environments.

 

Commercial Property, News

Fast-growing local company leases 51,000 sq ft Cwmbran industrial unit: Knight Frank

Self-adhesive material manufacturer Nu-Coat has leased a 51,000 sq ft industrial unit at Avondale Industrial Estate in Cwmbran to enable it to expand its sales globally.

The fast-growing company was formed five years ago and its innovative products are used by the sign, display and graphics markets in the UK and Ireland. Nu-Coat had outgrown the 20,000 sq ft premises it had on Chapel Farm Industrial Estate in Cwmcarn but was keen to stay in the area and has taken a 10 year lease on Unit 4 at Avondale.

Its new factory on Avondale Industrial Estate was acquired last year by PMG, the commercial property developer behind Cardiff City Stadium and Capital retail park.  It invested £500,000 in refurbishing the unit, including energy-saving initiatives, new epoxy resin floors, refurbished offices, and a new yard area. The company was advised by property consultancy Knight Frank.

PMG development director Rick Guy said: “We are delighted to have attracted a quality local company so quickly to Unit 4 which we acquired as the first step of a new drive into buoyant or undervalued sectors where we can add value.  The letting to Nu-Coat completes the successful delivery of our business plan.”

Chris Martin, managing director of Nu-Coat, said: “We anticipate a lot of growth over coming years – including the creation of many new jobs – and the much larger premises at Avondale give us the capacity to expand our manufacturing capabilities and stock to enable us to grow further in the UK and also overseas.”

Nu-Coat has invested heavily in the latest coating and converting technology, housed within a clean room environment and is spending a further £300,000 to tailor the new building to its requirements.

Chris Martin added: “We are one of the very first manufacturers worldwide to have chosen UV curing technology for self-adhesive signs and graphics materials. This is a speed-curing solvent-free process in which high intensity UV-C light instantly cures the coating, saving time and money and delivering significant environmental benefits, including much lower fuel usage at the factory.”

Neil Francis, head of logistics and industrial at Knight Frank in Cardiff, said: “It is clear that occupiers of buildings of this size are no longer prepared to accept older dated accommodation. PMG reacted to the lack of Grade A space within the market by undertaking a full scope of works to transform the building into a HQ facility.”

Developer PMG has transacted on over £500m worth of commercial property over 60 different projects including student accommodation, industrial, retail and land assembly. Its major projects in south Wales include the 35,000-seat Cardiff City Football Stadium and adjoining 480,000 sq ft Capital Retail Park and Trident Industrial Park. It has also helped to develop Wales’s first 375,000 tonne waste-to-energy incinerator.

Finance and Banking, News, Tech

Revolutionary femtech firm partners with HSBC UK to support domestic and international growth

  • Award-winning female-led tech firm, Elvie, plans to launch in new markets and develop further innovations to support women’s health using ground-breaking technology
  • Elvie becomes one of the first companies to receive bespoke support from HSBC UK’s £250m Growth Lending proposition, designed to nurture UK’s most promising scale-ups

A ground-breaking London-based femtech business Elvie, founded and led by women to create innovative technology-based solutions to women’s health needs, has bolstered its relationship with HSBC UK to support its significant international growth plans.

Under the partnership Elvie will utilise an eight-figure funding package to: continue its rapid growth trajectory in its existing product categories, support new product development using smarter technology to solve female health challenges in new areas, and continue to expand into new markets internationally.

Founded by Tania Boler in 2013, Elvie’s market leading products – which include a pelvic floor trainer and wearable, hands-free, near-silent breast pump – use bio-feedback and connected mobile technology to create superior solutions to women’s health needs. The company has been lauded for making a real difference to the lives of millions of women around the world, with two of its products being named as TIME Magazine’s 100 Best Inventions (Elvie Pump and Elvie Stride – both electric breast pumps).

The company, which is a market leader in both the UK and US, is one of the first beneficiaries of HSBC UK’s new £250m Growth Lending proposition. The dedicated proposition is designed to support the UK’s most promising high-growth tech scale-ups. Widely recognised as the fastest growth area in the economy, UK scale-ups contribute 33% of GDP*.

This HSBC UK Growth Lending package is made up of revolving credit facilities, invoice financing and trade loans. The HSBC partnership has been formed in addition to the equity investments from Elvie’s long term and long-standing investors.

Sarah Highfield, Chief Executive Officer at Elvie, said: “Elvie has already revolutionized every category it has entered – but we know that we have barely scratched the surface of what is possible for women’s tech.  Brokering this long-term strategic partnership will allow us to develop more innovative products, and ultimately reach more women across the world. We know there is so much more we can do, and will be working closely with our partner HSBC UK – and our existing long-standing equity investors – to deliver on these growth plans.”

James Messer, Global Relationship Director at HSBC UK, commented: “Elvie is a fantastic example of a next generation business that has designed and created innovative and exciting new products which are making a huge difference to the lives of women.  From the very beginning of our relationship, Elvie has demonstrated its exceptional ability to create solutions and operate on an international scale. We’re excited to be supporting Elvie through its next phase of growth, utilising our new dedicated HSBC UK Growth Lending proposition.”

James Cundy, Managing Director, Head of Mid-Market Corporate Banking & Structured Finance, UK, commented: “Elvie is a shining example of why we created the Growth Lending proposition – not only is it a highly successful, high growth, ambitious and promising business but it is managed by an exceptionally talented team. It makes me proud that HSBC UK is partnering with such an inspirational – and aspirational – company that is doing genuinely exciting and revolutionary work for women on a global scale.”

Elvie has almost 200 employees globally and was listed as #75 in the FT 1000 list of Fastest Growing Companies in Europe 2022. Four Elvie products have won the prestigious Red Dot design awards, including Elvie Pump taking the ‘Best of the Best’ accolade in the year it launched, and Elvie’s Founder Tania Boler was awarded ‘GLAMOUR’s Women of the Year Technology Gamechanger’ for her taboo-breaking work.

HSBC UK’s Growth Lending proposition is a £250m pool of assets to support high-growth, loss-making tech scale-ups that are supported by strong equity backing, have a proven sales track record, and a clear path to profitability.

This deal was supported by Anna O’Brien (HSBC UK, Growth Lending) and Prasan Parekh (GTRF). (HSBC UK, Global Trade and Receivables Finance). Intellectual property (IP) identification and valuation experts, Inngot was appointed to support the deal.

* According to the ONS

Manufacturing

Expert Tips On Using Stretch Wrap Effectively In Industrial Applications

Stretch wrap is used primarily by industrial companies to firmly bind and secure items on pallets in preparation for transportation or storage. Even in quick-paced operations, there are many factors to consider in order to provide optimal protection, cost-efficiency, and sustainability, despite how straightforward it may appear to wrap pallets with plastic film.

By following these expert tips, you can ensure that you are using stretch wrap effectively for your industrial applications, and that your products are adequately protected during transportation and storage.

Choose the type of stretch wrap best suited for your requirements

There are different types of stretch wrap available in the market, such as cast stretch wrap, blown stretch wrap, pre-stretch wrap, UV stretch wrap, and machine stretch wrap. Each type is designed for specific applications, so it’s essential to choose the right one based on the type of product you’re wrapping, the environment it will be stored in, and the method of application.

When it comes to selecting the right type of stretch wrap, there are a few factors to consider such as the type of product being wrapped, the transportation method, and the level of protection required. Here are some of the most common types of stretch wrap and their recommended uses:

  • Cast Stretch Wrap: This is a popular type of stretch wrap that is made by extruding a thin layer of film onto a cooling drum. It is clear, quiet, and easy to use. Cast stretch wrap is ideal for wrapping pallets that have a uniform shape as it has excellent cling properties, which helps it stick to the load. It is also good for use with products that require ventilation or need to be stored in a cooler or freezer.
  • Blown Stretch Wrap: Blown stretch wrap is made by extruding a molten resin through a circular die, which then stretches the film into a bubble. It is thicker and stronger than cast stretch wrap, making it better suited for heavier loads or irregularly shaped products. Blown stretch wrap has a higher resistance to punctures and tears, making it ideal for use in harsher environments.
  • Pre-Stretch Wrap: Pre-stretch wrap is a type of stretch wrap that has been stretched before being wound onto a roll. This process reduces the amount of energy required to stretch the film during application, making it easier to use and more cost-effective. Pre-stretch wrap is ideal for wrapping lighter loads that do not require a high level of protection.
  • Coloured Stretch Wrap: Coloured stretch wrap is available in a range of colours, which can help identify different products or shipments. It can also be used to add an extra layer of security to a load, as it makes it more difficult to see the contents of the wrapped pallet.
  • UVI Stretch Wrap: UVI stretch wrap is treated with a special additive that protects the film from the harmful effects of ultraviolet (UV) light. This makes it ideal for use in outdoor storage or transportation, as it can help prevent the film from breaking down and losing its strength.

Reduce expenses by using comparable cast stretch wrap film

When money is tight, think of a picture with a comparable cast. Layers of stretch wrap film are used in its production. Because it utilises less material, it is less costly and provides equivalent protection to normal stretch wrap film.

If you’d prefer items be concealed, think about using opaque stretch wrap film.

If you export pricey goods, concealing them can lower the risk of theft. Stretch wrap material that is opaque conceals the pallets’ contents. In addition, it offers better UV protection and shields objects stored outside for a longer period of time than transparent film.

Although opaque stretch wrap film is most frequently seen in black, it is also available in white, yellow, green, red, and blue – ideal if you’d prefer to colour-code your palettes.

Do you deliver items that are heat-sensitive? White opaque stretch wrap film can conceal and protect contents such as meals, drinks, or pharmaceuticals while they are being transported.

Consider UV stretch wrap film if items may be exposed to the sun.

A specific ingredient is used in the production of UV stretch wrap film to shield plastic from sunlight. Depending on the gauge, it could shield items for up to a year before it starts to deteriorate.

Because normal film quickly deteriorates in the light, this sort of file is suitable for items that will be stored in the open. UV film shields your items from sun damage in addition to being slower to decay.

For high-volume operations, use a stretch wrap film machine

Stretch wrap films are available for both human and automated application. If your business wraps a large number of items each day, a stretch wrap machine can be a wise investment. A machine not only expedites manufacturing but also lowers expenses.

Speed, less waste, less labour, and consistent wrapping are all advantages of machine wrapping. Another advantage is that since machines are reliable, you might be able to lower the gauge of your wrap while ensuring load protection, which also lowers expenses.

Although manual wrapping works effectively, worker weariness often prevents the film from being stretched to its full potential. This may result in unstable loads during transportation, which might harm the final product.

Ask your supplier for advice

Given the variety of stretch film types and gauges available, selecting the ideal stretch wrap film for your needs can be difficult. Think about consulting a stretch wrap professional. By doing so, you can be certain that you’re making effective use of stretch wrap for your industrial applications

Pets

The dog’s coat – mirror of health

A dog’s coat is a very good indicator of its state of health. Hair loss, dandruff, a greasy or dull fur indicate diseases or nutritional deficiencies that need to be clarified individually – here, a pet nutrition expert explains the signs to look out for.

The length and structure of the dog’s fur vary from breed to breed. Accordingly, the amount of care required for the fur can vary. For some dogs it is hardly worth mentioning, others need to be brushed almost daily. If you are negligent, you can expect your dog to have fur problems. The same can happen if the dog’s diet is not healthy and balanced. This can also lead to a change in the coat. It appears dull and lacklustre, there is hair loss, increased dandruff or disturbances in the change of fur. The quick and usually visible reaction of skin and hair to diseases or nutritional deficiencies enables every dog owner to judge the general condition of his dog. Accordingly, the causes can be counteracted promptly.

The dog’s coat change, for example, follows a seasonal cycle with peaks in spring and autumn. During this time, hair loss is completely normal in most dog breeds. The hereditary change of coat is supposed to protect the animals from cold in winter and heat in summer by an adapted coat. The renewal of the coat takes about 4 to 6 weeks. As this is an enormous metabolic effort for dogs, nutritional deficiencies are particularly noticeable during the coat change. A high-quality dog food that provides the dog with all the important nutrients is a good base for a smooth change of coat.

Keeping dogs indoors, artificial lighting, climate change and other external factors can disrupt the shedding cycle or even stop it altogether. Instead, the shedding cycle is completed throughout the year. This is not uncommon nowadays and therefore mostly harmless as long as there are no underlying health problems.

A healthy and strong coat should be a matter of course for every dog. It reflects not only the dog’s health, but also its conscientious care and optimal nutrition. If a dog is physically healthy despite poor coat quality, the diet should be changed and/or nutritional deficiencies corrected. A species-appropriate diet should also be supported by regular and thorough coat care. This also includes regularly checking the dog for parasites.

Tips for a healthy coat:

1. Feed your dog high-quality food that is appropriate for the species.

The connection between species-appropriate, high-quality nutrition and coat condition has already been examined in various scientific studies. The result: in almost all animals studied, it is possible to achieve an improvement in coat condition, which is expressed by shine and the right fat content, after just a few weeks by feeding high-quality complete food. PLATINUM, for example, uses only the best ingredients. In particular, high-quality salmon oil and cold-pressed linseed oil, to not only ensure the optimal fat balance, but also promote healthy skin and hair.

2. Bathing your Dog

When bathing your dog, use special skin-friendly shampoos for dogs to prevent the skin from drying out.

3. Brushing your Dog

Brush your dog regularly: this can prevent skin problems and diseases caused by matted fur. Check your dog’s coat regularly for burrs, ticks and other vermin – also look out for skin lesions or rashes. Keep your dog free of skin parasites such as fleas or mites.

4. Care when dogs are indoors

In Winter, many dogs spend much more time indoors.

If possible, take off the collar and chest harness indoors so that the coat does not experience permanent pressure or friction in these areas.

During the cold months, make sure that the humidity in living areas is not too low (40 % to 60 % is optimal) and that the rooms are not overheated. This dries out the skin unnecessarily. If you use dog clothing, make sure that it fits properly and that the material is gentle on the fur.

Lastly, if you dog is indoors for long periods of time their claws are likely to need regular clipping.  Don’t let your dog’s claws get too long, shorten them with special scissors if necessary or ask your veterinary practice for help.

Hyperconvergence, Networks, Technology

Exploring Hyperconverged Infrastructure: Benefits, Functionality, Use Cases

A few years ago, cloud storage was the new trend for organizations. Organizations started migrating their data and workloads to the cloud for various reasons.

Companies have understood that the cloud does not solve their needs, from data security to complex operations, increased costs, to fragmented infrastructure. But instead of returning to traditional data centers, they choose something in between — the hyper-converged solution.

For all that the cloud doesn’t offer, Hyper-converged solutions prove to be the solution. But what is HCI? What are its advantages and use cases? Well, we will discuss that in this comprehensive guide on Hyper-converged infrastructures.

What Is Hyper-Converged Infrastructure (HCI)?

An all-in-one system, HCI Hyper-converged infrastructure is a software-defined solution that integrates computing, storage, and networking resources. Incorporating all aspects into a single system increases scalability and flexibility. Thus, simplifying management and reducing operational costs.

Put simply, think of HCI as multiple physical servers — each with its memory, storage, networking resources, and CPU — but all are aggregated into a single cluster.

Since HCI eliminates the need for having separate management and hardware components, aspects like provisioning, scaling data, and security is enhanced. Additionally, since everything is clustered, it is easier for organizations to deploy and manage the Hyper-converged solutions. Furthermore, organizations can integrate HCI solutions into cloud or multi-cloud environments while ensuring seamless data mobility and workload portability.

Benefits of Using Hyper-Converged Infrastructure

From performance, scalability, and flexibility to manageability, the HCI system has many benefits for the IT infrastructure. Here are some of the benefits of deploying HCI solutions:

1.     Simplified Management.

With the HCI system, all the software and hardware components are integrated into a single cluster. This allows organizations to deploy and configure the systems quickly. By eliminating the management process of traditional infrastructure, where IT teams had to work on every aspect separately, HCI systems reduce the risk of errors and allow for faster troubleshooting.

2.     Organizations can Scale Up or Scale down Storage by Adding/removing nodes.

Organizations with HCI infrastructure can quickly scale up or down by removing or adding nodes. What’s exceptional is that whenever organizations have to add or remove nodes, they can do that without downtime or configuration. This ensures that all the business processes can continue even during scaling up or scaling down the storage resources. This is particularly suitable for organizations that see seasonal spikes in traffic and user demands.

3.     HCI Has Proved to Improved Organizational Performance and productivity.

Most HCI vendors leverage modern storage technologies like SSDs and non-volatile memory express, ensuring that storage performance is always the best and enabling organizations to utilize their resources to their full extent. Whether application response time or load balancing — the overall performance increases by adopting hyper-converged solutions.

4.     Results in Increased Resiliency.

Almost all HCI vendors have built-in data protection and recovery systems, allowing data replication and backup. So, unlike traditional infrastructure, businesses can always retain their data even when software or hardware fails. Additionally, even when such an event occurs, organizations can recover the data quickly. And return the operations to normal conditions. Furthermore, businesses do not have to spend additional data resources to create silos.

5.     HCI Offers Flexibility.

Cloud storage solutions seemed the next normal. However, soon businesses found that it is not suitable for all workloads. For instance, it became difficult for organizations with cloud solutions to integrate with their systems. But that’s not a concern with Hyper-converged systems; it allows organizations to integrate with cloud and multi-cloud environments, as well as it supports all workloads — like virtual desktops, databases, and so on.

6.     Operational costs Are low.

Hyper-converged infrastructure is a unified system. This means there isn’t a need for big IT teams. Additionally, the unified software allows IT teams to manage the system effectively from one control panel — thus, the total cost of ownership comes down significantly. But there are also long-term benefits of deploying HCI solutions. For instance, Hyper-converged infrastructures are designed to reduce power and consolidate the entire infrastructure into fewer devices — thus, reducing the total cost over time.

7.     Procurement is simple.

Since all the components are unified in HCI solutions, it is simple for organizations to deploy the tool. They do not have to look for different components — and integrate them in-house.

 

Top Use Cases: How Hyper-Converged Infrastructure is Used in the Real World?

Now that you know the benefits of HCI solutions, it is also essential to learn HCI solutions are adopted and used in the real world. Here are the top use cases of HCI solutions:

1.     Virtual Desktop Infrastructure.

Virtual Desktop Infrastructure requires computing, memory, and networking resources all in one place for better performance. And that is why organizations that deploy VDIs use hyper-converged infrastructure.

2.     Private Cloud.

Many companies looking for private cloud alternatives opt for HCI solutions, given it gives the same flexibility and is a scalable and flexible solution for hosting applications and services.

3.     Remote Offices.

Once again, the Hyper-converged solutions offer scalability a flexibility. Importantly, they are unified and can host a variety of applications and services. All these make Hyper-converged solutions a suitable system for meeting the requirement of the Remote office or Branch Office (ROBO). The primary reason Remote Office/Branch Office use Hyper-converged infrastructure is their ability to be deployed and managed remotely.

4.     Disaster Recovery.

Another primary reason many organizations are opting for hyper-converged infrastructure is they are resilient and come up with cutting-edge data security measures. For instance, they create data backup and also duplicate data. So, if there is ever a disruption, organizations can reassess the data quickly while halting the organizational processes.

 

Conclusion,

Integrating the storage, computing, and networking resources — Hyper-converged infrastructure reduces operational costs and avoids complex processes. Not to mention, it becomes simple for IT teams to manage the HCI solutions as they can manage it from a single location. As indicated, they are also several benefits of HCI solutions. From simplified management to improved performance, scalability as per need to flexibility as per workload — the operational benefits of using HCI solutions are just too many.

All in all, if your organization is looking to transform its data centers — and looking for agility, hyper-converged solutions are the way to go!

Networks, Technology

Managed SD-WAN for Cloud-Based Businesses

In recent years, cloud computing has become increasingly popular among businesses of all sizes. The convenience and flexibility offered by cloud-based services have allowed companies to reduce costs, increase efficiency, and improve their overall operations.

However, as businesses continue to migrate their applications and data to the cloud, the traditional wide area network (WAN) architecture is no longer sufficient to support their needs.  This is where Managed SD-WAN services come in – providing a scalable solution that can adapt to the changing demands of modern-day businesses.

SD-WAN

Before delving into the advantages of Managed SD-WAN services, it is important to understand what SD-WAN means. SD-WAN stands for Software-Defined Wide Area Network, which is a virtualized network architecture that enables businesses to have better control and management over their WAN connections.

Unlike traditional WANs that rely on hardware-based routers and switches, SD-WAN utilizes software and cloud-based technologies to manage traffic routing between different locations in a more efficient manner. This allows businesses to optimize their network performance while reducing costs associated with expensive hardware upgrades and maintenance.

SD-WAN  Benefits for Cloud-Based Businesses

Managed SD-WAN services offer several benefits for cloud-based businesses. They provide a more flexible and scalable network infrastructure that can adapt to the changing needs of modern-day enterprises. With an SD-WAN architecture, companies can easily add new locations or applications to their network without having to worry about complex hardware configurations.

SD-WAN enables businesses to prioritize network traffic based on application needs, ensuring that critical applications receive the necessary bandwidth and performance they require. This is particularly important in cloud-based environments where multiple applications are running simultaneously over the same network connection.

Managed SD-WAN services deliver increased security features such as encryption and firewall protection for data transmitted over the WAN connection. This helps protect against cyber threats and ensures compliance with industry regulations such as GDPR or HIPAA. By leveraging Managed SD-WAN services in their cloud networks, businesses can achieve greater operational efficiency while reducing costs associated with traditional WAN architectures.

 SD-WAN Over Traditional WAN

SD-WAN provides greater visibility and control over network traffic by utilizing software-defined policies that can be managed centrally. This allows businesses to optimize their network performance and prioritize critical applications without the need for expensive hardware upgrades. SD-WAN can leverage multiple WAN connections such as broadband, LTE, or MPLS, to provide a more resilient and reliable network infrastructure that ensures business continuity even in the event of a network outage.

With SD-WAN’s ability to dynamically route traffic based on real-time conditions such as latency or packet loss rates, businesses can ensure optimal application performance across their entire network regardless of location or device type. By using Managed SD-WAN services in their cloud-based networks, businesses can achieve greater agility and flexibility while reducing costs associated with traditional WAN architectures.

Managed Service Providers

Implementing and managing the technology can be complex and time-consuming. This is where Managed Service Providers (MSPs) come in. MSPs specialize in providing IT services to businesses, including Managed SD-WAN services. They can assist in the design, implementation, and management of SD-WAN solutions that are tailored to the specific needs of each business.

MSPs also present ongoing support and maintenance to ensure that the network operates at peak performance levels. By partnering with an experienced MSP, businesses can focus on their core operations while leaving their network infrastructure to experts who can optimize it for maximum efficiency and reliability. As such, MSPs play a crucial role in helping cloud-based businesses leverage the benefits of SD-WAN while minimizing risks associated with its implementation and management.

When selecting an MSP for Managed SD-WAN services, businesses should consider several factors. They should look for an MSP with a proven track record of delivering high-quality service and support to their clients. This includes expertise in deploying and managing SD-WAN solutions that are tailored to the specific needs of each business. Secondly, businesses should ensure that the MSP proffers flexible pricing models that align with their budgetary requirements.

It is essential to consider the level of customer service and support. Businesses should ensure that they have access to 24/7 support from experienced technicians who can quickly address any issues or concerns related to the network infrastructure. Businesses must ensure that the MSP has robust security protocols in place to protect against cyber threats and data breaches.

Finally, it is essential for businesses to work with an MSP that can provide ongoing maintenance and support for their network infrastructure as technology continues to evolve over time. By choosing an experienced and reliable MSP for Managed SD-WAN services, businesses can leverage this technology’s benefits while mitigating risks associated with its implementation and management.

Conclusion

In today’s highly competitive digital landscape, cloud-based businesses must have a network infrastructure that can keep up with their changing needs. Managed SD-WAN services deliver a scalable and flexible solution that enables businesses to optimize their network performance while reducing costs associated with traditional WAN architectures.

By leveraging the expertise of experienced MSPs, organizations can adopt SD-WAN technology in a hassle-free manner while focusing on their core business activities. Choosing the right MSP for Managed SD-WAN services is crucial in ensuring maximum efficiency and reliability in network performance.

Ultimately, by future-proofing their business with Managed SD-WAN services, cloud-based enterprises can stay ahead of the competition and achieve long-term success in today’s rapidly evolving digital landscape.

Digital Transformation

Digital Transformation After The Pandemic: 8 Things To Know

Remember when life seemed simpler? Just a few years ago, the world was vastly different, the pandemic changed everything, and many of those changes are here to stay. As businesses scrambled to adapt to the new normal, digital transformation emerged as a key strategy for survival and success.   

But what does this mean for your business? Take a closer look at the areas that experienced digital transformation after the pandemic and explore what companies need to do to stay ahead of the curve. 

 

1. E-commerce And Retail 

As people are stuck in the cosiness of their homes and restricted from going outside, it significantly affects how people buy goods and even services. It led to the closure of many brick-and-mortar stores while other brands struggled to maintain foot traffic. In response, businesses shifted their focus to e-commerce, and online sales skyrocketed.   

To adapt, companies should invest in user-friendly and mobile-responsive websites, optimize their online presence, and offer convenient delivery and payment options. A seamless omnichannel experience will be critical for businesses looking to maintain their competitive edge. 

2. Remote Work And Telecommuting 

The pandemic turned remote work from a perk into a necessity. As companies moved online operations, video conferencing and collaboration tools became essential. Research by Gartner revealed that 82% of employers plan to integrate flexible, skeletal, and remote work post-pandemic.   

To ensure a smooth transition to remote work, companies should invest in secure, cloud-based technologies and equip their employees with the necessary tools to work from home effectively. It is also essential to foster a strong company culture and develop clear communication channels to maintain productivity and employee engagement. 

  

3. Digital Marketing And Online Advertising 

With consumers spending more time online, businesses quickly realized the importance of digital marketing. The pandemic accelerated the shift towards digital channels, and in 2020, eMarketer reported that digital ad spending surpassed traditional ad spending for the first time.  

Companies should embrace digital marketing strategies such as social media, content marketing, search engine optimization (SEO), and email marketing to reach their target audience. They should also focus on data-driven marketing to optimize ad costs and improve return on investment. 


4. Virtual Events And Conferences 

In-person events and conferences halted during the pandemic, giving rise to virtual events. Grand View Research even estimated that the global virtual events market would skyrocket from 2021 to 2028, which is something businesses can leverage.  

Companies must invest in virtual event platforms and digital tools to stay connected with clients and customers. They should also focus on creating engaging and interactive experiences to keep their audience interested and involved. 

  

5. Online Education And Training 

Educational institutions and companies alike turned to online learning during the pandemic. According to a survey by Mckinsey, a massive percentage of companies increased their online learning offerings to support employee growth and development.   

Moving forward, businesses should continue investing in online learning platforms and create personalized learning paths for employees. Emphasizing upskilling and reskilling will be crucial to meet the digital landscape’s evolving demands.   

 

6. Telehealth And Virtual Care 

The pandemic spurred a massive increase in telehealth usage as patients sought medical care without risking exposure to the virus. A report even predicted that virtual healthcare visits would continue to boom and has a low chance of declining over the next few years.   

Healthcare providers should continue investing in telehealth infrastructure and focus on patient privacy and data security. Additionally, integrating telehealth into the broader healthcare ecosystem will be crucial for seamless care delivery.  

 

7. Financial Technology (Fintech) And Digital Payments 

With social distancing measures in place, contactless payments and digital banking experienced a surge in demand during the pandemic. It led to the rise of mobile banking accounts and the growth prediction of digital funding transactions worldwide.   

To remain competitive, financial institutions must invest in digital payment systems and explore innovative fintech solutions. It includes embracing blockchain, artificial intelligence, and machine learning technologies to streamline processes and enhance security. 

  

8. Automation and Artificial Intelligence 

The pandemic highlighted the importance of automation and AI in maintaining business operations and enhancing efficiency. Businesses are now planning to increase their investments in AI and automation to improve resilience and drive growth.   

To stay afloat, companies should consider automating repetitive tasks and integrating AI solutions to optimize operations, reduce costs, and enable better decision-making. However, balancing automation with focusing on human skills and talent development is crucial to ensure long-term success.

 

Conclusion 

The pandemic has undoubtedly reshaped how people live and work, accelerating digital transformation across various industries. Businesses must adapt and embrace these changes to remain competitive in the post-pandemic world. By investing in digital technologies, fostering a culture of innovation, and prioritizing employee development, companies can successfully navigate the new normal and thrive in the digital age. So, is your business ready to embrace digital transformation after the pandemic? The time to act is now.