Insights from VAF Blog

Van Ausdall & Farrar, Inc. in Top 7% of All Mitel Dealers for 6th Year in a Row

July 12th, 2023 by admin

Leading Managed Technology Services Provider Awarded for Superb Technical Capacity & Strong Customer Experience Van Ausdall & Farrar, Inc., a leading managed technology services provider (MTSP), proudly announced today that the company has earned Mitel...

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Posted in: Insights from VAF Blog

Van Ausdall & Farrar, Inc. Recognized as Top 1% Gold Partner out of 15,000+ Other Companies

July 11th, 2023 by admin

Leading Managed Technology Services Provider Stands Out Amongst the Competition by Focusing on Helping Customers Navigate the Cloud & Hybrid Workplaces Van Ausdall & Farrar, Inc., a leading managed technology services provider (MTSP), proudly announced...

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Van Ausdall & Farrar Places in the Top 30 of Ring Central Partners

June 2nd, 2023 by admin

Our partner RingCentral, an industry leader in cloud-based communication and collaboration products and services for businesses, has crunched the numbers to figure out how their 14,000 global partners have performed for 2022, and the results are here!...

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Mitel Customers Migrating to UCaaS are Embracing RingCentral MVP - So Can You

November 22nd, 2022 by Van Ausdall & Farrar

By Karthik Arumugam, SVP, Migrations Office, Mitel, and Shiraz Hasan, Head of GTM Strategy & Strategic Alliances, RingCentral. In November 2021, Mitel and RingCentral surprised the business communications world by forging an exclusive partnership that...

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Posted in: Insights from VAF Blog, Managed IT Solutions

Benefits of New Printing Technology for Your Business

November 18th, 2022 by Van Ausdall & Farrar

The digital revolution is here, and businesses everywhere are spending time and resources to future-proof their companies. From migrating their data to a cloud server to revamping their online security, business owners are doing what they can to keep...

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Posted in: Insights from VAF Blog, Print

How To Find the Right Business Technology Company

November 10th, 2022 by Van Ausdall & Farrar

The complexity and constant change that exists in the world of Information Technology is causing frustration for the leaders of small businesses everywhere. IT whiz-bangs know networks and servers, but often, they do not know regulation and compliance....

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Posted in: Insights from VAF Blog, Data Security & Compliance Solutions

What Is the Best Approach to an Enterprise Content Management System?

November 10th, 2022 by Van Ausdall & Farrar

Do you have a hard time managing your business data? Or are you a business owner who wants to automate your business for a seamless operation? If your answer is “yes,” then enterprise content management (ECM) is your solution. To manage your business...

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Posted in: Insights from VAF Blog, Managed IT Solutions

How Your Business Can Benefit from Security Awareness Training

October 26th, 2022 by Van Ausdall & Farrar

Security awareness is essential for the safety of business assets, money, brand reputation, and employees. As a standard business practice for many companies, security awareness has been a primary goal of businesses that strive to provide a safer and...

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Posted in: Insights from VAF Blog, Training

What Are Data Backup and Recovery Services, and Why Does Your Business Need Them?

September 30th, 2022 by Van Ausdall & Farrar

Today, data has become an essential commodity for every business. Those who have adopted data backup and recovery services have been reaping the rewards, while those companies who have not may be falling behind. Security experts have been at the forefront,...

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Posted in: Insights from VAF Blog, Data Security & Compliance Solutions

How Real Estate Technology Solutions Can Improve Your Business’s Performance

September 9th, 2022 by Van Ausdall & Farrar

The internet changed nearly everything about the way people do business, including real estate. As many of the processes involved in buying a home occur online, real estate companies and their respective agents must adapt to this quickly-evolving marketplace....

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Posted in: Insights from VAF Blog, Communications, Print, Process

Advantages of Using Business Technology in Higher Education

August 9th, 2022 by Van Ausdall & Farrar

Educational institutions have been given one of the country’s most important jobs – preparing today’s youth for the world of tomorrow. Even though these facilities carry such an essential duty and are always in continuous operation, they are constantly...

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Posted in: Insights from VAF Blog, Print

Switching Your Business from Print to Digital in 2022 with Document Conversion Services

June 22nd, 2022 by Van Ausdall & Farrar

From typewriters to laptops, and from cash to credit, the world is evolving into a paperless place, and who can blame it? For more than the last century, businesses have trusted their most valuable information on paper. However, in 2022, paper is less...

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Posted in: Insights from VAF Blog

What Business Leaders Should Know About Ransomware

May 20th, 2022 by Van Ausdall & Farrar

Ransomware is one of the most damaging cyber-attack types of all time. It’s the one feared the most by business owners and cybersecurity defenders. This worry is not without reason. In an instant, an organization’s critical IT infrastructure can be...

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Posted in: Insights from VAF Blog, Data Security & Compliance Solutions, Cybersecurity

What Are Business Telephone Systems? Do I Need This Technology?

April 26th, 2022 by Van Ausdall & Farrar

If you are a business owner in the market for a new telephone system, we are sure you have questions. Questions like: Am I providing great customer service? or How do I track my business phone calls? are becoming more and more common among business owners....

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Posted in: Insights from VAF Blog, Business Telephones

Why Your Business Needs Physical Security Solutions

April 19th, 2022 by Van Ausdall & Farrar

Protecting your business’s assets, sensitive information and employees should be at the top of any company’s list. In this modern era of business, we take every precaution available to us to keep our online information safe and secure. From multi-factor...

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Posted in: Insights from VAF Blog, Information

5 Important Ways to Improve Your Cybersecurity

April 19th, 2022 by Van Ausdall & Farrar

$3.9 Million. That’s the answer to the following question… What was the average total cost of a single data breach in 2020? Cybersecurity is expensive, but the alternative is more than many companies can pay. I won’t take any more of your time...

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Posted in: Insights from VAF Blog, Cybersecurity

What is Multi-Factor Authentication?

March 4th, 2022 by Van Ausdall & Farrar

You wouldn’t buy a safe without a lock would you? As technology becomes more and more integrated with our daily lives the need to keep our personal information protected. Scammers are frequently trying to gain access to personal and professional accounts....

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Posted in: Insights from VAF Blog, Cybersecurity

What Are Your Options for Indianapolis Office Security Solutions?

March 4th, 2022 by Van Ausdall & Farrar

Making sure your office is a safe and secure place for your employees is every business owner’s top priority, but oftentimes we don’t attempt to improve our security systems until there is an incident. Being proactive is the best way to prevent incidents....

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Posted in: Insights from VAF Blog, Data Security & Compliance Solutions, Cybersecurity

How to Implement a Document Conversion Solution

March 4th, 2022 by Van Ausdall & Farrar

In the digital era, finding any important file or piece of information is as easy as using a search tool. But if your company is still using hard copies and paper files, there is no search function that can find the file you’re looking for easily. That’s...

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Posted in: Insights from VAF Blog, Process, Managed IT Solutions

What Is a Next-gen Contact Center?

March 4th, 2022 by Van Ausdall & Farrar

Contact centers serve the touch point of connection between a company and its customers. Whereas a call center deals with phone interactions alone, a contact center offers consumers a variety of ways to interact with a company, such as web chat, email...

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Posted in: Insights from VAF Blog, Business Telephones

Outsourced vs In-House Printing

March 1st, 2022 by Van Ausdall & Farrar

Do you know how much your company spends on printing in house? It’s estimated that as many as 90% of companies don’t track their printing costs despite the fact that the cost of paper, ink, and toner alone is extremely expensive. Studies show that mismanaged...

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Posted in: Insights from VAF Blog, Print

What Are the Advantages of Facility Management Software Solutions?

March 1st, 2022 by Van Ausdall & Farrar

Facility managers are some of the busiest employees in any company, as they play a crucial role in ensuring that their organization has the tools and software needed to function at its best. Sometimes, though, these hard workers get overwhelmed. Implementing...

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Posted in: Insights from VAF Blog, Process

The Benefits of a Technology Strength Assessment

December 9th, 2021 by Van Ausdall & Farrar

It’s a basic fact of life: change happens. Just as we all go through changes as people, businesses and organizations evolve. Technology also evolves, perhaps even quicker than anticipated. A technology solution you brought in two or three years ago may...

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Posted in: Insights from VAF Blog, Cloud Solutions, Managed IT Solutions

What Are the Benefits of Implementing Cloud Solutions?

December 9th, 2021 by admin

If you own or operate a business, you may want to consider joining the growing list of companies that are relying on cloud solutions to host their data and systems. Cloud-based software allows companies to store information on the internet, compared to...

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Posted in: Insights from VAF Blog, Managed IT Solutions

What Is Enterprise Content Management and Automation?

December 1st, 2021 by Van Ausdall & Farrar

If your business still stores important documents and information in a filing cabinet, consider stepping into the future by contacting Van Ausdall & Farrar to implement an enterprise content management and automation solution. An effective enterprise...

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Posted in: Insights from VAF Blog, Cloud Solutions, Data Security & Compliance Solutions, Information, Process

What Is Network Infrastructure?

December 1st, 2021 by Van Ausdall & Farrar

Your company’s network is vast, complicated, and consists of numerous parts. For many companies, it’s too much for a small IT team to effectively manage. Fortunately, the technology professionals at Van Ausdall & Farrar are here to help. Keep reading...

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Posted in: Insights from VAF Blog, Managed IT Solutions

How to Print for Less Without Losing Quality

November 3rd, 2021 by Brian Courtney

Is your business looking to trim some extra expenses in the upcoming fiscal year? One area in your office where overindulgence is often the case is your print management. In many businesses, printing is a necessary expense that’s dealt with as quickly...

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Posted in: Insights from VAF Blog, Print

How to Keep Your Business' Data Safe and Secure

November 3rd, 2021 by Van Ausdall & Farrar

Data breaches, especially for small- to midsize companies, continue to be a major threat, as cybercriminals have become more sophisticated in their methods. Most data attacks come out of nowhere and often target companies with sub-par security solutions...

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Posted in: Insights from VAF Blog, Data Security & Compliance Solutions, Cybersecurity

Delivering a World-Class Customer AND Employee Experience

October 25th, 2021 by Van Ausdall & Farrar

Since the dawn of the information age, delivering a high-quality customer experience has been vital to the success of an organization. Without it, your business will not survive in this hyper-competitive global marketplace. But now, delivering a great...

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Posted in: Insights from VAF Blog, Communications

How to Prepare Your Content for a New Enterprise Content Management System

September 2nd, 2021 by Brian Courtney

The benefits of an enterprise content management (ECM) solution include improved control of corporate data, greater protection of proprietary information, as well as making business data actionable. An effective enterprise content management system strategy...

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Posted in: Insights from VAF Blog, Process

The Benefits of Unified Communications for Businesses

September 2nd, 2021 by Van Ausdall & Farrar

Efficient and effective communication is the backbone of any successful business. From phone calls, video calls, SMS and chat, your employees must have ways to properly communicate with one another, and most importantly, with your clients. But with so...

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Posted in: Insights from VAF Blog, Communications

Recorded Presentation - Why Great IT Matters

August 26th, 2020 by Guillermo Fernandez

Trent and Guillermo do an outstanding job outlining the case for the elements that are critical to Great IT. Find out why Continuity, Performance Reputation and Compliance are categories that leaders focus on to stay on course. Understand how Detection,...

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Posted in: Insights from VAF Blog, Cloud Solutions, Data Security & Compliance Solutions, Information, Managed IT Solutions

Return to Work Health Screening ESSENTIALS

August 4th, 2020 by Ashlee Colliver

After being closed for months or working remotely you, as business leaders are eager to reopen your business successfully and securely, but the questions are how? Before we can offer a solution on how to securely open your business, we need to decide...

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Posted in: Insights from VAF Blog, Data Security & Compliance Solutions, Information, Process

Recorded Presentation - Demystifying Zero Trust

July 24th, 2020 by Guillermo Fernandez

Chad Scott and Andrew Short return for another compelling web presentation. This time they talk about the Zero Trust security strategy many organizations are now exploring. This thought-provoking presentation will get you thinking about your current...

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Posted in: Insights from VAF Blog, Cloud Solutions, Data Security & Compliance Solutions, Information, Managed IT Solutions

The Current State of the COVID-19 Pandemic in Indiana

April 29th, 2020 by Trent Smith

THE CURRENT STATE OF THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC IN INDIANA AND WHY IT WILL ALTER THE TRAJECTORY OF HOOSIER BUSINESSES FOREVER Indiana Governor Eric Holcomb announced that he will decide some time this week whether to extend Indiana’s stay at home order, and...

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Posted in: Insights from VAF Blog, Communications, Cloud Solutions, Data Security & Compliance Solutions, Information, Managed IT Solutions

Struggling to Find What You Need to Do Your Job? Maybe We Can Help

April 9th, 2020 by Brian Courtney

Over my 30 year career I have worked in a small office, large corporate office, a branch office, and a home office. Being a “people person”, I have to say that my preference is being in a busy office working on deals with my team face to face but these...

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Posted in: Insights from VAF Blog, Cloud Solutions, Data Security & Compliance Solutions, Information, Process

Across the Nation Workers are taking the Tape off their Webcam due to another Virus

March 24th, 2020 by Guillermo Fernandez

Many of us have done it. We heard the stories of hackers snooping into our lives by connecting into our meagerly prepared home networks, to view and intimidate our families through our computer, doorbell or security camera. So, we added a little piece...

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Posted in: Insights from VAF Blog, Communications, Cloud Solutions, Data Security & Compliance Solutions, Information, Managed IT Solutions

Audio and Video Conferencing for At-home Workers

March 18th, 2020 by Guillermo Fernandez

As a larger percentage of knowledge workers are working from home due to the Coronavirus, I am receiving many how-to's about conference calls and other forms of collaboration. Many people are unaware that their Office 365 subscription gives them access...

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Posted in: Insights from VAF Blog, Communications, Cloud Solutions, Data Security & Compliance Solutions, Information, Managed IT Solutions

Scan Documents with your i-Phone

March 18th, 2020 by Guillermo Fernandez

As many of us are working from home these days, sooner or later you’ll find the need to scan a document and send it to someone at another location (I’m guessing most of you do not have fax machines in your house). If you’re like me, you’ve likely used...

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Posted in: Insights from VAF Blog, Communications, Cloud Solutions, Data Security & Compliance Solutions, Information, Managed IT Solutions

The Solution to Business Continuity during Coronavirus (COVID-19) Spread

March 11th, 2020 by Kent Lemley

Many organizations are starting to develop strategies that maintain business continuity while taking precautions to limit the spread of COVID-19. Some organizations are forced with making a choice between employee health and on-going operations. Twenty...

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Posted in: Insights from VAF Blog, Communications, Cloud Solutions, Data Security & Compliance Solutions, Information, Managed IT Solutions

Managed Print Trends that You Cannot Afford to Ignore in 2020

December 18th, 2019 by Brian Courtney

The 21st Century’s third decade is upon us. Welcome to the 2020s. Since this century began, the business world has been disrupted by new technology to a degree imagined only by science fiction writers–and almost everything they wrote has basically come...

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Posted in: Insights from VAF Blog, Print

Lease or Buy? Which Solution Is the Best Fit for Your Company’s Print Needs?

November 27th, 2019 by Brian Courtney

The economy is rising, yet the affordable housing market is down; car and truck sales are down, and personal computer and corporate server sales are down. What’s up with that? A significant contributing factor to those current downward sales trends is...

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Posted in: Insights from VAF Blog, Print

Van Ausdall & Farrar Attends Mitel Top 40 Summit

November 21st, 2019 by Trent Smith

Van Ausdall & Farrar was honored to attend Mitel’s Top 40 Summit, held last week in Mesa, Arizona. During the jam-packed 3-day event, Mitel leadership outlined Mitel’s road map and strategic vision. Mitel leadership that addressed the leading partners...

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Posted in: Insights from VAF Blog, Communications, Business Telephones

Steps to Effective Mobile Device Security in 2019

October 22nd, 2019 by Ashlee Colliver

If you’re in charge of corporate IT, you know computers can be tricky to keep secure. When you add in the factor of portability – like when a mobile device is checked out of the office – your challenge grows exponentially. ESSENTIAL LAYERS OF MOBILE DEVICE...

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Posted in: Insights from VAF Blog, Data Security & Compliance Solutions, Information, Managed IT Solutions

How to Make Your AP Processing More Efficient in 2020

October 15th, 2019 by Brian Courtney

As we’re seeing more and more, the science fiction world of robots and artificial intelligence dominating our lives becomes less fiction and more science every day. In the business realm, the efficiencies and cost savings provided by process automation...

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Posted in: Insights from VAF Blog, Information

5 Reasons to Upgrade Your Company's Printing Performance

October 1st, 2019 by Brian Courtney

If you know your printers are not performing as they should, then you probably also know you need to do something about it. But it’s not so easy to invest in an upgrade without real justification. So how do you know when the benefit outweighs the cost?...

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Posted in: Insights from VAF Blog, Print

Email Phishing and Spoofing Are Serious Threats to Your Business

September 23rd, 2019 by Guillermo Fernandez

Once upon a time not too long ago, fishing and spoofing were enjoyable activities. Relaxation; fresh air and fresh seafood; a friendly prank for fun; a few laughs with friends. Then electronic communications like email, texting, and emojis took over our...

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Posted in: Insights from VAF Blog, Data Security & Compliance Solutions, Information, Training, Cybersecurity

Unified Communications as a Service (UCaaS) – The Power, Flexibility and Resiliency of Cloud Communications

September 17th, 2019 by Trent Smith

Communication. It’s the lifeblood of virtually every organization. We all have different communication patterns. Voice calls, email, text, chat, web conferencing, team collaboration and even fax make up most forms of communication that we all use in varying...

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Posted in: Insights from VAF Blog, Communications

Solutions to Shore Up Your Corporate IT Skills Gap

August 29th, 2019 by Ashlee Colliver

One big problem with being an IT professional is the need to learn and use new skills on an almost daily basis. In the accounting profession, new regulations are passed annually, so you have some time to catch-up. But in IT, new mission-critical skills...

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Posted in: Insights from VAF Blog, Managed IT Solutions

Going Remote: How to Solve the IT Challenges of a Growing Virtual Workforce

August 27th, 2019 by Ashlee Colliver

It’s too late to turn back the tide. Working remotely is a trend that has grown past the point of being a short-term fad with unknown long-term consequences. At this point, including a virtual workforce as part of a corporate staff is the norm. Performance...

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Posted in: Insights from VAF Blog, Cloud Solutions, Data Security & Compliance Solutions, Information

The Growing Risk of Poor IT Infrastructure

August 19th, 2019 by Guillermo Fernandez

“If it ain’t broke don’t fix it.” Have you ever found yourself as the CIO or IT Director saying this about your IT Infrastructure? If you are like most companies, you have more projects than you can handle anyway, so why would you take on a project that...

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Posted in: Insights from VAF Blog, Data Security & Compliance Solutions

Is Your Data an Asset or a Liability?

May 31st, 2019 by Brian Courtney

We frequently talk with clients about the benefits of better managing data with the latest technology. But even if an organization has embraced technology, there still needs to be a strategy for managing a company’s data. Without a strategy, the data...

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Posted in: Insights from VAF Blog, Data Security & Compliance Solutions

3 Steps to Minimize the Impact of Cyber Attacks

May 21st, 2019 by Guillermo Fernandez

Despite the best efforts of IT Directors, 68% of companies fell victim to a cyber attack in the last year according to a report from Sophos1. That’s more than two in three companies world-wide! Cyber-attacks don’t discriminate either: 63% of small businesses...

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Posted in: Insights from VAF Blog, Data Security & Compliance Solutions, Cybersecurity

Five Reasons to Become Paper “Less”

May 1st, 2019 by Brian Courtney

While the workplace will never go completely paperless, it is definitely becoming paper-less. In other words, paper isn’t going away, but there are some real advantages to convert hard copies to digital data. Here Are Five Important Reasons for Becoming...

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Posted in: Insights from VAF Blog, Data Security & Compliance Solutions, Information

A CIO’s Simple IT Security Checklist

March 26th, 2019 by Ashlee Colliver

There was a time when those who refused to utilize technology could still thrive in business. That time is certainly over. Small businesses of all shapes and sizes must now embrace technology to maintain operational efficiency and compete in today’s market....

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Posted in: Insights from VAF Blog, Data Security & Compliance Solutions

Is Your Printer the New Silent Security Threat to Your Network?

February 25th, 2019 by Brian Courtney

Equipping an office with printers that are connected to the Internet offers a wealth of benefits, but in an age where cybersecurity should be a concern for all of us, it’s crucial to be aware of the potential implications of failing to make sure that...

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Posted in: Insights from VAF Blog, Print, Managed IT Solutions

Toshiba Phone Systems Now Supported by Mitel

August 16th, 2018 by Ashlee Colliver

It was 26 years ago that I began my career at Van Ausdall & Farrar, fulfilling an entry level sales role in our Business Telephone Systems Division. So many exciting changes have taken place since that time. A new name, Converged Communications Group,...

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Posted in: Insights from VAF Blog, Business Telephones

Is Your Most Vital Corporate Data "Paper-Locked"?

February 15th, 2018 by Brian Courtney

This is a question that comes up frequently as I work with new clients. These clients are often overwhelmed with the seemingly impossible size and scope of tackling a digital transformation project for their organization. The overall theme ties back to...

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Posted in: Insights from VAF Blog

February 8, 2018 - Print Security Event at TopGolf Presented by HP

January 25th, 2018 by admin

In February of 2017 an online hacker named ‘Stackoverflowin’ hacked over 150,000 printers just to prove a point… Unsecured printers are a huge security risk. Each hacked device printed a message informing the end users of the security breach....

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Posted in: Insights from VAF Blog, Print

We Were SD-WAN Before SD-WAN Was Cool

December 26th, 2017 by Kent Lemley

Software defined networks, or SD-WAN, is the latest network infrastructure buzz-word. This is the latest in a long line of marketing terms, such as "Cloud". Can you define "Cloud", really? But, we all know what it means. We also know it's the shiny...

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Posted in: Insights from VAF Blog

Mitel Acquires ShoreTel and Toshiba

October 10th, 2017 by Trent Smith

Van Ausdall & Farrar has been a valued Toshiba phone system partner for over 25 years. It came to a great shock to us when on March 21, 2017, Toshiba notified its customers and dealers that, as part of its continued global restructuring, it would be winding...

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Posted in: Insights from VAF Blog, Business Telephones

VAF Wins a New Certification from Ricoh!

October 6th, 2017 by Guillermo Fernandez

We are proud to announce that Van Ausdall & Farrar has been awarded an important new certification from Ricoh! Winning the RFG Circle of Excellence Certification is a very important milestone in our continued commitment toward excellent customer service....

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Posted in: Insights from VAF Blog

WannaCry Ransomware Update from Ricoh

August 3rd, 2017 by Guillermo Fernandez

To continue safe operation of some Ricoh Multifunction Printers, Laser Printers, Production Printers and Printer Controller products which use Microsoft Windows operating system, it is necessary to apply the appropriate Microsoft Windows security patch....

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Posted in: Insights from VAF Blog

What Happens When Ransomware and the Internet of Things Collide?

May 3rd, 2017 by Guillermo Fernandez

In 2016, Ransomware attacks made alarming headlines, affecting every kind of business from hospitals to police stations. Last year, too, hacks of Internet of Things (IoT) devices -home appliances, toys, cars and more, were also making headlines. Many...

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Posted in: Insights from VAF Blog, Cybersecurity

Van Ausdall & Farrar Receives ShoreTel Gold Status

May 3rd, 2017 by Trent Smith

Van Ausdall & Farrar, Inc. Advances to Gold Level in ShoreTel Champion Partner Program Indianapolis, IN, May 1, 2017 – Van Ausdall & Farrar announced today it has advanced to the Gold level in the ShoreTel® Champion Partner Program. Van Ausdall &...

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Posted in: Insights from VAF Blog

Is it Time to Switch to a Cloud Phone System?

April 26th, 2017 by Trent Smith

TOP 5 REASONS TO SWITCH TO A CLOUD PHONE SYSTEM A company’s phone system is often an integral tool in the pursuit of business. It, along with other methods of communication, connect the company to its customers. So, it is vital to keep the business phones...

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Posted in: Insights from VAF Blog, Communications, Cloud Solutions

3 Practices for VIP Customer Service from Contact Centers

April 20th, 2017 by Trent Smith

“CUSTOMERS WHO EXPERIENCE DISGUST, ANGER, OR A FEELING OF NEGLECT DURING A BRAND INTERACTION ARE ABOUT EIGHT TIMES MORE LIKELY NOT TO FORGIVE THAT COMPANY.” –FORRESTER RESEARCH Today’s savvy business is dedicated to giving every one of their...

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Posted in: Insights from VAF Blog

Toshiba Announces Operational Changes.

April 10th, 2017 by Trent Smith

TOSHIBA PHONE SYSTEMS MAY BE WINDING DOWN, BUT VA&F IS JUST GETTING STARTED April 7, 2017 — On March 22, 2017, Toshiba America Information Systems announced to their distribution channel and dealer network that they are winding down their marketing, sales...

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Posted in: Insights from VAF Blog, Business Telephones

Make Case Management Work for You

April 10th, 2017 by Guillermo Fernandez

LEADING YOUR COMPANY TO SUCCESS WITH EFFECTIVE CASE MANAGEMENT SOLUTIONS Case management includes everything from the IT help desk to incident tracking to contract management to customer service and more. It’s the kind of work that directly affects your...

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Posted in: Insights from VAF Blog

Technology Number Three, After Process & Planning

March 22nd, 2017 by Guillermo Fernandez

ONLY WHEN THAT YOU HAVE THE WHO, WHAT, WHERE, WHEN, WHY AND HOW IS IT TIME TO TALK TECHNOLOGY If you’re managing a modern office, it’s so easy to be seduced by new technology. There are lots of cool technologies out there -like systems that implement...

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Posted in: Insights from VAF Blog, Managed IT Solutions

Be Less Paper Dependent

March 14th, 2017 by Guillermo Fernandez

Most organizations take one look at their too-full file cabinets or their clutter-filled offices and decide right on the spot, “Let’s work to make this company less paper dependent.” It makes a lot of sense, really – why would anyone want to waste precious...

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Posted in: Insights from VAF Blog

Information Plus Data the Vitality of Your Business

February 23rd, 2017 by Guillermo Fernandez

A company cannot make good decisions without good information and actionable data. Like the blood in our bodies that feeds all our vital organs with life-giving oxygen, so, too, does mission-specific information and actionable data feed the vitality of...

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Posted in: Insights from VAF Blog

OnBase by Hyland Receives Department of Defense Certification

February 15th, 2017 by Guillermo Fernandez

Accreditation reinforces our partnership with Hyland and our shared commitment to offer our customers a validated, secure records management solution. Hyland, creator of the OnBase information platform, recently received the Department of Defense (DoD)...

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Posted in: Insights from VAF Blog, Data Security & Compliance Solutions

Leverage the Power of Unified Communications with IP Telephony Systems

January 31st, 2017 by Trent Smith

As IP telephony evolves, companies are focusing on the next-generation benefits of unified communications. Companies all over the world are enjoying increased network efficiencies from today’s IP telephony. As this technology evolves, a spotlight is shining...

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Posted in: Insights from VAF Blog

Paperless Workflow for Mortgage Bankers with Document Capture Technology

January 17th, 2017 by Guillermo Fernandez

Mortgage bankers today are faced with processing a tremendous volume of paperwork for each mortgage loan they need to consider. With ever-changing regulations and requirements, the size of standard loan paperwork has increased to 700 pages – and it is...

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Posted in: Insights from VAF Blog

Speech Recognition Solutions for Health Professionals Improve Patient Care

January 10th, 2017 by Greg Moheban

Why are healthcare professionals adopting speech recognition technologies at a much faster growth rate than in the past? Speech recognition has been around for many years, yet right now, the hospital IT market is really taking notice. Why? Many healthcare...

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Posted in: Insights from VAF Blog

The Challenge of Big Document Analytics

January 3rd, 2017 by Guillermo Fernandez

The concept of utilizing capture technology for analytics and data discovery is relatively new. “There is a dichotomy in the perceived value of corporate information,” says Tim Dubes, Vice President of Marketing at Ephesoft, Inc., a VAF partner that provides...

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Posted in: Insights from VAF Blog

Time is Now for Lawyers to Get Savvy about Mobile Speech Productivity

December 26th, 2016 by Greg Moheban

Twenty-sixteen is a big year for lawyers and mobile technology. Statistically speaking, all lawyers now access work email, perform legal research and communicate with clients or colleagues 1) while away from their offices and 2) using smartphones, laptops...

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Posted in: Insights from VAF Blog

When Healthcare Professionals Go Mobile

December 19th, 2016 by Guillermo Fernandez

Imagine having secure access to complete patient records anywhere, anytime. As a busy healthcare professional, what if… You could access more complete patient information from your mobile device You could capture images, signatures and...

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Posted in: Insights from VAF Blog

5 Requirements of BYOD for Mobile Unified Communications

December 12th, 2016 by Trent Smith

With the introduction of highly-sophisticated smartphones and tablets to the consumer market, a new generation of mobile users has emerged … and they want to enjoy all the advanced capabilities of their new phones at home and at work. The advent of Bring-Your-Own-Device...

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Posted in: Insights from VAF Blog

Case Management Solutions for the Healthcare Industry

December 6th, 2016 by Guillermo Fernandez

Case management software helps build client relationships and improve patient care. Companies that support healthcare organizations such as nursing homes, retirement communities and long-term care facilities need to employ an effective way to manage these...

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Posted in: Insights from VAF Blog

Leveraging New Technology for Robust Contact Center Operations

December 3rd, 2016 by Trent Smith

VAF talks with Steve McElderry, director of product management for contact center at ShoreTel, about emerging trends that are revolutionizing contact center operations. Contact centers serve the touch point of connection between a company and its customers....

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Posted in: Insights from VAF Blog, Managed IT Solutions, Business Telephones

Driving Your Technology

September 13th, 2016 by Guillermo Fernandez

Growing up, it seemed like we were always taking long family drives to a relative’s house or to see some part of the country that needed to be appreciated. Mind you, these weren’t thirty minute trips to the outlet mall. These were of the 8- or 9-hour...

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Posted in: Insights from VAF Blog

Oh My! The Phones are Down Again!

September 2nd, 2016 by Jeff Jenney

“The phones are down again!!”  This is the refrain heard in office environments across the country when the inevitable happens.  That little box sitting atop your desk with the lights that usually blink longingly at you for attention blinks no more. Phones...

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Posted in: Insights from VAF Blog, Business Telephones

If You Really Want to Know What Your Customers Think of Your Company, Ask Them.

August 26th, 2016 by Debbie Chambers

There are many ways to survey your customers. You may want to consider employing more than one, but you want at least one method that allows the customer to not only rate their experience on a scale, but that allows them to share their comments and opinions...

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Posted in: Insights from VAF Blog

Addicted to the Manufacturer’s Toner? You Need a Managed Print Intervention

August 19th, 2016 by Brian Courtney

Document workflows are constantly changing. More and more businesses are finding ways to cut printing costs by moving to digital solutions. We are doing more with mobile devices and document management software but, alas, the printed page isn’t dead…...

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Posted in: Insights from VAF Blog, Print

BIOTECH Cluster is Big and Getting Bigger in Indiana… BioCrossroads

August 12th, 2016 by Greg Moheban

Within our own daily endeavors we think of companies and competitions for customers, clients, and new business initiatives. Indiana has the benefit of a tremendous resource engine that connects like companies organizations, and people, for the bigger...

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Posted in: Insights from VAF Blog

Protecting the Modern Data Center

August 5th, 2016 by Guillermo Fernandez

You've taken the leap to modernize your infrastructure.  You are leveraging virtualization in order to create a redundant environment that is hardware agnostic.  You can spin a new server up in minutes instead of days.  You move servers between hosts...

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Posted in: Insights from VAF Blog, Data Security & Compliance Solutions

Culture - Who Cares?

July 29th, 2016 by William Fama

Webster’s definition of Culture: a way of thinking, behaving, or working that exists in a place or organization (such as a business). Who cares? Well, we all better care! A business culture that you are a part of, or engaged with daily can have significant...

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Posted in: Insights from VAF Blog

Data Security - On a Small Scale

July 22nd, 2016 by Brian Courtney

Data Security, simply put is protecting data from destructive forces and from unwanted actions from unauthorized users. Data itself can take many forms inside a normal business structure. Data can be sensitive personal information about employees, or...

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Posted in: Insights from VAF Blog

Communication, Collaboration, Control; the Keys to an Effective Business Phone System

July 20th, 2016 by Trent Smith

Business phone systems traditionally haven’t been considered much beyond their ability to connect callers. For most businesses, telecom is a line item on an expense budget—no thought is given to how the technology actually can help improve your company’s...

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Posted in: Insights from VAF Blog, Communications

ShoreTel Connect Cloud Is More than Just a “Phone System”

July 18th, 2016 by Trent Smith

ShoreTel brings a fundamentally different approach to phone system technology. We focus on your most important assets—your people and their goals—and remove impediments to free flowing communications so your team can focus on relationships, ideas and...

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Posted in: Insights from VAF Blog, Communications, Business Telephones

"I Got a Guy..."

July 15th, 2016 by Jeff Jenney

Too often I meet with clients and when asked how they manage their technology infrastructure and roadmap for the future the response I hear is ‘We have a guy…’ or ‘We have a Managed Service Provider…’ that has been handling their IT Infrastructure...

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Posted in: Insights from VAF Blog

Planning for Adversity: Ensuring Business Communication Continuity with the Cloud

July 11th, 2016 by Trent Smith

Your new marketing campaign was a huge success and your office is receiving the highest level of calls you’ve ever experienced in your growing business. Your staff is taking live calls, checking voicemail and returning customer inquiries as fast as they...

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Posted in: Insights from VAF Blog

5 Key Steps to Successful Lifecycle IT Asset Management

July 8th, 2016 by Rod Noggle

Keeping track of company assets can be an overwhelming task, especially with all the IT components involved. We mostly think of these devices as desktops and laptops, but other mobile devices, such as iPads and cellphones, can complicate matters. During...

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Posted in: Insights from VAF Blog

3 Questions to Ask When Choosing a Cloud Communications Provider

July 6th, 2016 by Trent Smith

Smart businesses everywhere have embraced the cloud as a cost-effective alternative to CapEx spending with on-premises hardware and software. For SMBs in particular, the cloud enables enterprise-level functionality without the associated price tag. As...

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Posted in: Insights from VAF Blog

3 Best Practices in Using Collaboration Apps

June 29th, 2016 by Trent Smith

Collaboration tools have helped companies expand well beyond the four walls of their office, giving employees free rein to work anywhere and promoting the idea of a virtual workforce. But what companies gain in expanded reach and productivity increases...

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Posted in: Insights from VAF Blog, Communications

Information Governance Panel Discussion

June 29th, 2016 by Guillermo Fernandez

Van Ausdall & Farrar in partnership with IDT911 Consulting, Expedient Data Centers, and Access Information Management is pleased to announce an Information Governance panel discussion, taking place Thursday, August 4, 2016 at our Indianapolis corporate...

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Posted in: Insights from VAF Blog

Records Management vs. Information Governance - What's the Difference?

June 23rd, 2016 by Brian Courtney

With all of the various software solutions surrounding the management of information, it is understandable that most of us struggle keeping it all straight. Dozens, if not hundreds, of companies tout their expertise in areas such as Document Management,...

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Posted in: Insights from VAF Blog

How SMBs Can Benefit from Cloud Communications

June 22nd, 2016 by Trent Smith

Today’s business environment is much different from 20 or even 10 years ago. Employees are more productive and expect more from their business tools, while companies run a tighter, more streamlined work environment. As a result, every tool is utilized...

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Posted in: Insights from VAF Blog

Innovative Solutions 2016

June 22nd, 2016 by Brian Courtney

Register to attend the 2016 Innovative Solutions Expo on September 15th, 2016. Van Ausdall & Farrar is pleased to announce our 3rd Annual Innovative Solutions Expo, taking place Thursday, September 15, 2016 at our Indianapolis corporate headquarters....

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Posted in: Insights from VAF Blog

3 Ways Cloud Communications Can Improve Customer Relationships

June 20th, 2016 by Trent Smith

Your company prides itself on its stellar customer service. Whether its onboarding new customers or addressing an issue a current customer may be having, your employees understand the importance of making—and keeping—customers satisfied. But...

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Posted in: Insights from VAF Blog

A4 Print Strategy: Size Can Be Deceiving

June 17th, 2016 by Trent Smith

For many years now, Multi-Function Printers (MFP’s) have been an integral part of doing business. For many companies, printing represents one of the largest expenses month in and month out; yet up until recently, it seemed it was an area that received...

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Posted in: Insights from VAF Blog

TechDay 2016 Was a Success

June 17th, 2016 by Guillermo Fernandez

Van Ausdall & Farrar held an event on June 10th and 11th for it's Print Service Technicians.  The event was created to combined team building activities with educational seminars into a compact 24 hour period. Thank you to our team of sales specialists...

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Posted in: Insights from VAF Blog

A Phone System that Maximizes Your Control

June 13th, 2016 by Trent Smith

You’ve realized that your current phone system is no longer working for your growing business. So you do what any savvy business person does – you research your options. And you quickly comprehend that what you need is a phone system that will minimize...

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Posted in: Insights from VAF Blog, Business Telephones

4 Reasons Why Cloud Communications Should be a Part of Your Disaster Recovery Strategy

June 7th, 2016 by Trent Smith

We all know disaster can strike anytime — a broken water pipe, fire, weather event… all can do damage and wreak havoc on your business. And when time is money, getting your business up and running after a disaster is paramount. Most businesses...

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Posted in: Insights from VAF Blog

Fly Over County

June 6th, 2016 by Greg Moheban

Flying over the U.S. vast Midwest territory looks much the same until you see the Rocky Mountains or the expanse of America’s top cities on each coast. What you see is much of the farmland that feeds our population. What you don’t realize is what convergence...

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Posted in: Insights from VAF Blog

A 10-Question Evaluation for Your Phone System

June 1st, 2016 by Trent Smith

Today’s business environment is fast-paced and competitive. Technology makes it possible for you to know your customers and your customers to know your business within moments. A customer can give feedback about your business then let others know about...

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Posted in: Insights from VAF Blog

10 Ways Your Phone System Improves Your Customers’ Experience

May 25th, 2016 by Trent Smith

Business competition in today’s economy is fierce. Your customers expect the highest level of customer care, and you and your staff need to be reachable, professional and customer focused at all times – no matter where you’re located. If that’s your...

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Posted in: Insights from VAF Blog, Business Telephones

Is Your Old PBX System Hindering Your Employees’ Productivity?

May 23rd, 2016 by Trent Smith

Most employees today eschew the traditional 9-to-5 workday in favor of work-life balance and the ability to work when they want (and often where they want). The result often is an increase in productivity and a more satisfied workforce—a win-win for...

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Posted in: Insights from VAF Blog

Get the Most from Your Communications, in the Cloud

May 16th, 2016 by Trent Smith

Your employees want to be productive no matter where they are. Cloud communications can help them be more productive, at a price that won’t break your budget. Take a look at how your employees are working—chances are, a good number of them are mobile,...

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Posted in: Insights from VAF Blog

3 Ways Cloud Communications Can Save Your Company Money

May 13th, 2016 by Trent Smith

These days, companies are demanding more from their technology. At the same time, IT budgets are decreasing, widening the gap between what employees want—and need to be more productive—and what IT can offer. The trick is to find technologies that make...

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Posted in: Insights from VAF Blog

Communications as a Service: ‘Cloudifying’ the PBX

May 11th, 2016 by Trent Smith

The cloud has had a dramatic impact on the way we do business, impacting everything from infrastructure to user access. Applications have broken free from onsite hardware giving users the ability to work anywhere at any time. And it’s just getting started....

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Posted in: Insights from VAF Blog

I Still Haven’t Found What I’m Looking for…

April 24th, 2016 by Guillermo Fernandez

With apologies to U2 for borrowing their lyric. We’re all aware of the statistics. Data is proliferating. Gartner predicts that the number of connected devices will eclipse 32 billion by 2020. It’s not just computers and smartphones creating and storing...

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Posted in: Insights from VAF Blog

What’s New in VMware vSphere 6.0?

April 13th, 2016 by Guillermo Fernandez

VMware vSphere® 6.0, the industry-leading virtualization platform, empowers users to virtualize any application with confidence, redefines availability, and simplifies the virtual data center. The result is a highly available, resilient, on-demand...

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Posted in: Insights from VAF Blog

Van Ausdall & Farrar Hosts Super Event

April 13th, 2016 by Guillermo Fernandez

Customers learn about Internet threat protection and get to see the newly released movie Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice. Van Ausdall & Farrar and Barracuda Networks held a joint customer event in Carmel to educate our guests on the complex pitfalls...

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Posted in: Insights from VAF Blog

Tips for Navigating your Email Safely

April 11th, 2016 by Guillermo Fernandez

Email has become a de facto method of communication for businesses and individuals alike.  Trusting all email, however, can be a big mistake.  Here is a quick read that will help you determine which emails you can open and which you should delete! Phishing...

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Posted in: Insights from VAF Blog

Creating Better Customer Experiences One Call at a Time

March 17th, 2016 by Trent Smith

If you make money using the phone, then your phone system needs to be a business enabler, not inhibitor. Your prospects must be able to reach you in a timely manner. Your customers need to find you wherever you are, at the front desk, in a meeting or...

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Posted in: Insights from VAF Blog, Business Telephones

Residents in 317 Area Code Urged to Start Dialing 10 Digits

March 7th, 2016 by Trent Smith

If you live in the Indianapolis metropolitan area, you need to prepare for changes in how you make local telephone calls. Starting on September 17, 2016, all local calls in the 317 area code will require 10-digit dialing. In other words, you’ll need to...

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Posted in: Insights from VAF Blog

Copier Service & Supply Portal Now Available for Customers

July 1st, 2015 by Guillermo Fernandez

Van Ausdall & Farrar introduces a new online feature for our customers this July. The Copier Service & Supply Portal allows our customers to track services issues, request support and order supplies from their computer. Additional features include:...

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Posted in: Insights from VAF Blog

Van Ausdall to Introduce Phone App this Summer

June 7th, 2015 by Guillermo Fernandez

Van Ausdall & Farrar is always searching for ways to improve our customer’s experience and this year the company is introducing it’s first phone app, developed for Apple IOS and Android smartphones. The app will allow customers to request support, view...

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Posted in: Insights from VAF Blog