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June 22, 2017

Why is a Custom Coded Website better for SEO than a Template?

Search engine optimization, otherwise known as SEO, is very important to entrepreneurs who want to promote their business, obtain new clients, and retain current clients. SEO allows business owners to connect with potential clients searching for their products or services, helping to turn them into customers. Keywords, link building, updated content, trust, and more all helps to increase the visibility of a website and lead to a higher number of visitors to the website.

While it may not be straightforward or easy, implementing an effective SEO strategy, especially with recent updates to Google’s ranking algorithm, the Google Keyword Planner, and organic listings are all possible. It is important to determine how customers will search your website as well as how and what you must offer as optimized keywords on your landing page.

Depending on your product, a website design and layout is very important to the overall SEO process. There are two types of websites including: custom coded and templates. Both types of websites have their pros and cons.

Many websites today are developed through a content management system, which allows companies to easily and quickly update their sites without technical support. The most popular CMS is WordPress. It can easily be customized to fit a company’s needs and brand.

Custom coded websites are not created from a template instead are custom designed by a team of graphic designers and programmers from scratch. These sites can be a bit more expensive and take a bit longer to develop. A custom designed site can also be better for search engine optimization and placement of your website within search engines such as Google, Yahoo, and Bing.

Custom Coded Website

Custom websites are built from scratch rather than from a box. Custom websites allow you to show your company’s culture and personality using a unique design. The design can be presented, revised, and built into a custom platform for your website.
A custom website is always expandable. Customized features are added to make your website more flexible and easier to manage.
Custom sites are up-to-date with SEO and code practices. This all helps to increase the longevity of the website.
You have access via your account to the support of skilled developers who code from scratch as well as troubleshoot and fix bugs that may arise on the site.

Website Template

Website templates are user-friendly. You can change the colors and the fonts but the layout is pretty much set-up for you.
You can always change the layout just to avoid other websites resembling yours.
Website templates are often plug and play and take a very short time to develop.
They are less expensive, especially for start-up companies that need a website up quickly and on a low budget.

Templates have limited customization, which is good for companies who simply need to s of website templates is that there is limited to virtually no access to skilled developers. Templates are purchased online and will never gain you access to the person who built it. This reason alone makes a custom website a better option.

Learn more about Creative Programs and Systems, CPS, and the IT solutions they provide including IT consulting, computer consulting, network consulting, networking, server installation, IT disaster recovery, computer repair, virus removal, malware removal, computer tune ups, data backup systems, computer troubleshooting, structured cabling, low voltage wiring, website design, graphic design, logo design, website hosting, search engine placement, iphone app programming, android app programming, and custom programming at www.cpsmi.com. To contact one of our IT experts call 810.224.5252 today or via email at info@cpsmi.com.

June 19, 2017

An IT Network at Your Company Will Save You

As the owner of a company one of your main goals of improved customer relations, increased profitability and fewer expenses. It is critical that you adjust where it makes sense, cut unnecessary expenses, and only make changes that are in line with the companies end goal. One aspect where companies often loose site of the value is within IT.

It is rare that in today’s business world an office will consist of just one or two employees. This makes networking so important to your companies IT services. There are a number of benefits and savings that can be found when companies network their IT systems. From managing important company data to simply sharing interoffice communications securely computer system networking can benefit companies both large and small.

Importance of IT Networking

Manage Data Critical to the Organization

In an organization there are always key elements that need to be accessible to top personnel at all times. A network server allows for an organization to safely store document on one central server instead of individual computers. This help to keep the records organized and allows changes to me made in real time. This means that when the document is pulled up anywhere in the office the changes that were made will be up to date when they are viewed.

When networking is done correctly records on the server will be cataloged in a manner that only allows them to be accessed by those with permission. If one department does not have the same permissions the files they are not allowed to access will be password protected to avoid documentation ending up in the wrong hands. Only information that is to be accessible to the company as a whole will be able to see what is not password protected.

It Simplifies Sharing Data

In order to share information to individual PC’s that are not networked files must be downloaded and uploaded to each individual system from the original source. When an IT network is in place the process of sharing information becomes far less demanding. Information is stored and accessed from one central server. This sever communicates with each PC individually. In order to share information all that has to be done is for access to be granted. There is no need to exchange files between devices using external storage devices. This saves a lot of time and energy when working on projects as a team.

Flexibility in Accessing Information

Since the files are on a central server it doesn’t make a difference what PC you are doing your work on. You can work on a project from your personal computer at home or a PC at work. No matter where you are working from the information will be shared to the server in real time and updated to allow individuals to see the latest information.

Shared Office Equipment

When computers in an organization are networked it allows them all to share one printer, one fax machine, and other necessary resources. This is a whole lot cheaper than supplying a separate piece of machinery for each individual PC; thus saving time and money.

There are a number of reasons to consider consulting with an IT professional today to get your systems networked. The benefits of networking your office will help meet your end goals of providing amazing customer service while increasing profits and decreasing expenses.

June 6, 2017

Is It Important To Network Your Companies Computers?

Have you ever lost files or data on your computer and could not get them back? Did your computer somehow get malware and you aren’t able to access your data? Did your files become corrupt and couldn’t be retrieved? The best solution would be to have some kind of backup before these problems occur. Data backup systems are one of the most important things you should have in place for your business.

The security of vital information is important. Business owners must take necessary steps to ensure that the data is backed up regularly. Unfortunately, only about half of all business owners have a data back up in place. A routine back up is necessary for all business owners. At times, business owners and managers are not experienced enough to carry out data backups on their own. Thus the importance of working with an IT consulting firm that specializes in data backups and networking.

The sad part is that disasters don’t give warnings before they strike. As a matter of fact, dropping a hard drive by mistake can ruin a well-established business. Irrespective of the kind of tragedy your computer networking business may suffer from you should take steps to ensure that your files are in good hands.

The importance of data backup is numerous including:

Higher Reliability

According to IT consultants, the greatest importance of data backup is the reliability it offers. The beauty of the system is that the backup process can be carried out on a daily basis without any problem and that the process is fully automated. Aside from this, you can get access to your files instantly, as the data is stored on a cloud server. So, you needn’t wait for your files to be resent to you.

Easy Set-Up

At first, you may feel that creating a backup of your data is a hard nut to crack, but once you have got an understanding of the process, you will be able to do it with a few clicks. All you will need do to get the system ready and enable the automation feature. Once you have done that, rest assured that your data is safe and backed-up on a regular basis.

Reduced workload

It may take a lot of time to backup files manually. The manual process requires the services of at least one professional. On the other hand, remote data backup is automated, so you don’t need to worry about creating a backup of the files and then storing them on a DVD or USB drive. So, the whole process saves you lots of time.

Greater Security

In remote data backup, the data is stored in a safe location. So, the information is in good hands at all times. Usually, the security is increased through some advanced encryption systems. They are used in both software and hardware level. As a result, there is almost no chance of anyone breaking into the system. Your data will be safe from hackers as well.

Saves Money

For a moment, just think about the equipment required to create a backup of the files your business uses. Aside from the equipment cost, you will also spend a good deal of money to buy space for the equipment installation. And if you own a lot of computers with plenty of data, the cost of the equipment and space requirement will be very high. So, opting for cloud storage can save you plenty of money.

It is crucial that computers within your company are networked to a server that has an adequate backup running at least once a day to avoid disaster if the server or computer should ever fail.

May 24, 2017

Understanding What A Computer Virus Can Do

No matter how careful you are with your computer, it more than likely will face some issue over time. This typically includes slow speeds, error messages, file corruptions, and reboot issues. There are times these issues are due to the computer’s age or simple hardware issues. These can be rectified by replacing the part that has been causing the problem. In other cases, it may be due to a software problem.

However, in today’s day of high-speed downloads, the issue is usually due to a virus or spyware. Computer viruses are software programs that spread within the operating system by multiplying and corrupting essential files, eventually making the computer unusable. Whereas spyware is a piece of code that has been designed to obtain your personal information and send it out to third parties.

Spyware and viruses have the ability to enter your computer through a variety of means. Email attachments, software installs, online games, and untrusted downloads all have the ability to infect your computer with a dangerous virus or spyware. Both the spyware and virus have the ability to slow down your processor speed, change the homepage, alter registry settings, damage your files, and display a wide range of content and pop-ups.

One of the best methods for keeping your computer clean is to avoid putting your computer in such dangerous positions. Before you download anything from a website be sure to read the agreement. Your internet security settings should be set to medium or higher. Even taking the above steps is not enough to keep your computer safe from infections. When your computer is connected to a network, the threat level is magnified.

It is essential that anti-spyware and anti-virus software has been properly installed on your computer. There are a number of software suites available on the market that will cater to your individual budget and needs. However, like all things in life, not everything is what it would seem. There are some anti-spyware programs available online that are spyware programs themselves! It is quite important to download from only trusted sites and once again, read all of the fine print. Once the proper software has been installed on your computer, it is generally just a matter of hitting start to remove the unwanted programs from your computer.

If you feel you know where the culprit is hiding, you can start in that folder. However, it is typically best to scan the entire system, this is done by selecting all drives and folders. This type of scan will take several hours but it will find all viruses and spyware on the computer and remove them. In addition, there are many products available that will offer real-time protection for your computer. These products will prevent any form of malicious code from entering into the computer. They will continually scan the computer looking for anything that may be a virus of spyware and block it. In fact, these products have the ability to warn you of any suspicious sites before you even visit them.

These products are an excellent addition to your arsenal in keeping your files and computer safe. However, there are times when a computer is going to be too infected for one of these products to clean the system. In this case, you will have two options. One is to reformat the hard drive and reinstall all programs. Or bring it to a computer repair shop and hope that the system can be salvaged. They will back up your essential files and important documents and restore the computer to its factory settings.

The most important thing to remember is to think before you click when online. And if the situation becomes too bad, it is best to talk to a professional as soon as possible.

May 24, 2017

How To Choose The Right Commercial IT Specialists And Avoid Danger

As a small business grows it is essential that the amount of data that you store stays safe. This can include sensitive employee files or customer credit card information, regardless it is time to look into the hiring of dedicated commercial IT specialists. However, if you have little knowledge of the IT field, how can you be sure you are choosing the right company? Below are a few tips that will ensure that you hire the right professionals to keep your data safe and move your company in the right direction.

Understand Your Particular Needs

It is essential that you understand what you want and what you are looking to achieve. What role will the commercial IT specialist perform and what requirements will be needed of them? Many businesses will go with the least expensive option a newly graduated student for example. However, while they have the essential knowledge they will lack the formal experience.

A Team Effort

While an individual may be a more cost-effective solution, it may be inefficient. Many times IT is simply not a one-person job, this is especially true for larger businesses.

In addition, there is not one person who is going to be capable to contain all the knowledge that is necessary to perform the job to their fullest ability.

The Difference Between Skill And Talent

A professional IT specialist does not have the luxury to be technical, they must be able to understand it all. Businesses are used to hiring individuals who are skilled in one particular area, however, they may not always understand the process or procedure. It is essential that the commercial IT specialists that you hire are skilled at understanding why security breaches happen as well as how they can be prevented in the future. It is not always necessary to hire someone who is skilled with your particular system. As long as they possess the knowledge of “why”, they will have the ability to adapt and learn your system.

Experience vs. Certifications

While a certification will clearly show a certain level of knowledge, it is not a replacement for daily experience. A job should be posted looking for individuals not only with certifications but a certain level of experience.

The Value Of A Background Check

The individual or company who fills this position is going to have access to some of your companies most sensitive data. It goes without saying that there must be a certain level of trust.

Asking The Right Questions

If you are not familiar with the technology sector it might be well worth it to have an outsider help conduct interviews. It is important to be able to understand the potential candidates ability for troubleshooting on the fly, gauging risks, and prioritizing daily tasks.

A Recap Of Simple Tips For Hiring The Right Commercial IT Specialists

Be sure you know what you need and what you are looking for.
Never assume that one person is going to be capable of performing the job.
Understand the difference between skill and talent.
Do not rely solely on certifications, experience can be much more important.
Ask the right questions of the candidate.
Always run a background check.

Regardless of where you stand with technology, these simple tips will allow your companies data to remain safe while streamlining daily IT activities.

February 23, 2016

Debunking The Myths Surrounding Technology and Computer Networking

The myths surrounding technology and computer system repairs are plentiful. In this article we will look to debunk common myths surrounding computer repair, networking and I.T. consultants.

The myth that only a true computer geek can eliminate issues with your computer or network is one that is completely false. Computers and the systems that surround their effectiveness used to be considered unknown areas where only a technology geek could maneuver. Now day’s desk top computers are set up so that most anyone can troubleshoot problems and most often fix them. It is important to understand that to work within the I.T. industry you will need to obtain certain credentials and certifications to be of value to most employers.

The myth that one rate fixes all computers is a complete myth. Different issues associated with your computer require different amounts of time to repair. If you see a company offering a one size fits all approach to fixing your computer or charging you to repair your system run the other way. A flat fee is commonly charged but the overall rate you will be assessed should be determined on a number of items such as techs needed to fix your particular problem, hardware and software needs and time spent to completely resolve your issues. Many flat fee companies work to temporarily solve your problem without completely fixing all of the issues surrounding your network.

Unless you know what you are doing you should never attempt to defrag your computer at home. Many people have been told that defrag can be done at home by anyone however this results in a myriad of issues from more sever computer problems, complete system failures and unnecessary hardware replacement. Although a program to defrag your system may be pre-installed within your computers operating system it is indeed a service that should never be attempted without a good deal of knowledge into exactly what you are doing.

Just because you think your technician is the best does not mean they are equipped to handle every system that is in place. If the technician that most often works on your computer considers the problem fixed yet you are still having issues with performance it is probable that the problem is something unique that they may have not seen before and therefore are unaware of how to fix. Never be afraid to ask for a second opinion for another tech within the company.

Just because the company charges a nominal amount more than what others charge does not mean that the service or parts used are of higher quality or greater value. In computer repair and networking value is seen in the work performed over not the fee paid. This is one service industry that the old saying you get what you pay for is not always true. Be prepared to pay a higher fee for companies with more techs that specialize in a variety of services. Specializing in a number of different areas allows companies to charge more than those that only offer a few basic services. This is the same concept as you find between an urgent care facility and a doctor that offers services in one unique field.

Myths are plentiful no matter what industry you are in charge of hiring services to be performed. Be sure interview several different companies before determining which I.T. consultants best fit your technology needs and goals.

Computers Plus Service, in Brighton Michigan, provides a wide range of valuable services for residential computer repair as well as a variety of commercial computer services to the entire Livingston County area including Howell, Brighton and the surrounding areas. You can find out more about the services offered by CPS at http://www.cpsmi.com.

January 25, 2016

Understanding What Information Technology Consultants Offers To Your Company

Not many people completely understand what services IT consultants provide to their clients. Information technology consultants, also known as computer consultancy services, advise organizations on how best to utilize technology in order to achieve success within their business. IT consultants will create a plan to direct, employ, set up and oversee information technology based on the systems currently in place as well as the goals the business and long term objectives.

Outsourcing is a common practice amongst growing businesses. Companies outsource IT consultants for a number of reasons. Large professional service firms may be able to afford having an IT workforce but for midsized and smaller companies the expense of an IT specialist may not be justifiable. When looking to outsource it is important that you do so with your company’s size and goals in mind.

There are several tiers within the IT consulting industry.

Professional IT service companies that retain a sizable workforce to provide consulting services and a rate that matches.
Temporary staffing firms that place IT specialists with businesses that require their services on a temporary basis. This is most often due to the fact that an employee is absent or that the skill the temp offers is something unique that no one else currently employed can offer. IT temps are also hired when a technical project requires something that is needed that current employees can offer.
Independent IT consultants are individuals that are self-employed and are hired as independent contractors to provide services on an as needed basis.

There are several reasons IT consultants are asked to provide services.

When advice is needed from someone that is outside of the company. When external, objective advice and recommendations are needed from an impartial party.
When specialized expertise service can be gained from the consultant.
When a onetime project requires services that cannot be performed by a current employee and when it is cost prohibited to hire a permanent employee.
When IT services are required from a specific company.

When a company realizes it is time to take their IT to a new level it is important that they bring in an expert IT consultant to define the scope of the project including time of implementation and costs. The IT firm will maintain and support the development of the companies IT plans. IT consultants work with the company from the beginning of the projects development until the end in order to ensure complete satisfaction by the hiring company.

June 11, 2015

Tips To Help Keep Your Laptop Running Efficiently

For some of us our computers are our life line. We carry our computers from the café to our work place and even to catch some mid afternoon rays. Laptops are a preferable choice for many as they are easy to transport. Laptops are different then desktop computers and therefore have to be cared for in a particular manner. Below you will find some tips on taking care of your laptop.

One of the leading causes of damage to desktops and laptops is lack of airflow. When using a laptop it is crucial to have it setting on a hard surface. Avoid using your laptop on a bed or pillow as the soft fabric can block the vents and cause the system to overheat. It is important that you ensure the vents are clear of dirt and dust. Use a can of compressed air to clean the vents out frequently to allow for adequate air flow. Many computer repair shops offer a complete computer tune up for a relatively low fee.

Purchase an LCD and keyboard protector. These inexpensive items can guard your laptop against scratches and damages. The screen will be protected from scratches and the keyboard from crumbs and spills.

Laptops are more susceptible to damage from food and drinks. If at all possible do not eat or drink while using your laptop.

Keep your laptop surfaces clean. Wipe the outer part of the laptop free of dirt and dust. The accumulation of dust will prevent your laptop from running properly. Purchase fabrics designed to clean laptops and electronic devices.

Keeping the fan on your computer in working order is crucial whether it is a laptop or desktop. To avoid overheating the fan must be in working order at all times. If the laptop overheats it can cause issues with the computer’s memory and hard drive. Look online for information on your particular laptop to see how to visually check the fan. If you are not at all computer savvy a local computer repair shop will be able to look at your computer for you for a minor fee.

Your laptop should always be stored correctly. Always turn your machine off and put it in a laptop bag when not in use. Laptops should be stored away from children and pets; anything that has potential to chew on or damage your laptop should be kept away from stored laptops.

The tips above are just a few of the suggestions to help you keep your laptop running efficiently. It is not difficult to maintain your laptop properly and keep it running in tip top shape with just a little bit of extra care. Follow the tips above; if you notice your machine is not running properly shut it down and take it into your local computer repair shop for diagnosis.

April 9, 2015

The Necessity Of Computers In Our Everyday Life

Like it or not computers have become more of a necessity than not. Computers are no longer a nonessential piece of equipment in your life. Everywhere you turn computers are present from the office to the gas station life is made easier because of them. They help add to the attractiveness of your office and school presentations as well as increase the accuracy of your banking and tax calculations. In our normal every day routines, computers have done a variety of things for us some that we may even take for granted day to day.

Computer variations are abundant. No matter what form the computer you use comes in one thing is true of all of them; computers are smart, fragile, require care and regular maintenance. We should never take technology for granted; we should never treat the computers we use recklessly. The hardware inside our computer systems can be damaged with improper use. This will affect the performance of your computer. In order to keep your computers running at their best you need to take proper care of them inside and out. Proper maintenance will keep computers, big and small, running at optimal efficiency.

One thing that computer owners can do to ensure their computers are kept running up to par is by covering them. Dust is an enemy of computer systems and can enter through even the tiniest crevices. Once dust settles on computer hardware it can start to cause harm. Dust on the central processing unit causes a weird humming noise that stems from the fan. The computer may not perform well or may end up crashing if too much dust and debris is allowed to build up. Keep your computer covered when you are not using it to prevent dust from building up. Regular maintenance in the form of a computer tune up yearly can help as well.

Prevention is the best way to keep your computer running optimally. This is one of the many reasons that it is best not to eat or drink while using your computer. Laptops and desktops alike are prone to serious damage when exposed to liquids of any kind. Small particles entering the keyboard can also cause damage that will affect the computer negatively. The best practice when it comes to a computer is to avoid drinking and eating while on using your system.

When you regularly maintain your computer it will run smoother. Regularly scan your computer for malware and virus’s. Keeping your anti-virus up to date and run regular scans to prevent malware and viruses from taking hold of the software within your computer. Keeping your computer files protected will help ensure that your computer will not need major computer repairs later on down the road.

These are just a few tips to help you keep your computer running correctly no matter what you use it for in your day to day life.

Computers Plus Service, in Brighton Michigan, provides a wide range of valuable services for residential computer repairas well as a variety of commercial computer services to the entire Livingston County area including Howell, Brighton and the surrounding areas. You can find out more about the services offered by CPS at http://www.cpsmi.com.

March 19, 2015

Common Computer Repair and Maintenance Needs

Our current environment is surrounded with technology. Computers are everywhere! Our phones are computers, refrigerators have computers that can order food directly from grocery stores and work places network together so that projects that are being done on one system are shared throughout in real time. When the technology breaks down productivity slows to a crawl. This is just one of the many reasons that you need to have an I.T. specialist on speed dial.

Computer repair comes in many forms, from corporate I.T. to residential computer repair; all machines can run into problems. If your computer system or network is feeling underperforming there are a bunch of things that could be on inside of it. Below are three of the top computer repair issues that can interfere with your computer’s ability to perform.

The most common issue with computers is that they become infected. Even when running up to date anti-virus protection on your computer a virus can infect your network. More and more people are using the World Wide Web. With that in mind consider the amount of files that are unknowingly downloaded that are infected. Spyware, malware and computer viruses have been around since the beginning of the computer age. They are created to destroy and damage files while slowing your system down and violating your privacy. If you suspect that your computer has been infected it is crucial to get your system in to a computer repair center. There the virus can be removed; infected files deleted and updated antivirus protection installed.

Another common issue in the world of technology is a computer unit that will not properly boot up. This may be one of the scariest issues to have happen with your computer as retrieving the files stored on the system may not be possible. The hope when a computer is not booting properly is that your power supply has failed. This is a best case scenario. Otherwise a bigger issue may be present, one way or another computer failing to boot need to be brought in for repair immediately.

If you find your computer running slowly it is crucial to have the system looked at by a computer repair specialist. Computers, like cars, need to be maintained and tuned up to keep running properly. When a system is slow it may mean a number of things. One thing that often occurs is that several unnecessary programs and tool bars have been unknowingly installed which in turn uses available memory up slowing the system.