IT for Engineering Firms: On the Horizon In 2024 

IT Consulting

by - October 19, 2023

It’s essential that engineering firms stay on top of the latest advances in technology while addressing security concerns and other challenges unique to the industry. So, what IT issues and trends should engineering firms be thinking about in 2024? 

Integrating AI  
Artificial intelligence continues to transform the engineering industry, and companies who effectively leverage the technology have a clear competitive advantage. Its most common current usage is in gathering and analyzing vast data sets at superhuman speed. While its ability to identify patterns and detect anomalies within millions of data points is impressive, it’s important not to lose sight of the fact that AI is a tool, not a one-size-fits-all solution. In this use case, success depends entirely on the quality and quantity of data input to train the algorithm.  

AI has been used widely to aid engineers in designing complex systems. A clear advantage in AI’s ability to rapidly simulate and test systems is that it nurtures human innovation. This potentially gives engineers the freedom to be more creative and to “fail” more productively. Ideally, AI will complement, not replace, humans in the workplace–performing menial tasks efficiently and fostering a culture of experimentation that leads to new ideas and inventions. Generative AI is here to stay, and as more firms embrace the technology its full potential will emerge. 
 

Reducing Technical Debt 
As your company grows, new tools and software are added to better help employees do their job. But it’s easy to lose track of which department uses which software and many companies end up buying multiple unnecessary licenses. Reducing your technical debt means consolidating these tools, finding more efficient technologies, and ensuring you are running the latest version of each. 

Technical debt is a business risk and it’s important to take a close look at your technology to find inefficiencies. As your tech stack grows, so does the likelihood that something will fail or become a security risk. Adopting newer, better technology will reduce overall costs, improve workflow and limit security risks. The more efficient your tech stack, the more likely you’ll stay on top of required updates to keep you and your staff safe. 

Internet of Things (IoT) 
In an environment increasingly driven by connectivity, the Internet of Things (IoT) has profoundly impacted the engineering industry. As the market expands, so does demand for expertise in the field. Device integration requires infrastructure solutions that facilitate the collection and transmission of data, and its processing for practical use.  

The ability to gather real-time data from an array of interconnected devices and sensors has given engineers unprecedented insights into systems, structures, and processes, allowing them to optimize operations and predict maintenance needs with greater accuracy.  IoT technology facilitates rapid testing and prototyping, giving engineers the ability to quickly iterate and refine designs. Preventative maintenance can be highly targeted, addressing issues before they become critical, and reducing downtime.  

IoT also plays a pivotal role in sustainable engineering. The proliferation of smart building systems that can adjust lighting, heating and cooling based on occupancy and environmental conditions has led to significant gains in energy efficiency. The demand for “green” technology in residential, commercial, and industrial settings will only continue to grow. Whether it’s optimizing traffic flow in smart cities or designing efficient supply chain networks, IoT insights enable engineers to make data-driven decisions that lead to better solutions. With applications for a wide spectrum of industries, from medicine to aviation to city power grids, IoT will continue to evolve in 2024. 
 

Prioritizing Cybersecurity 
Cybersecurity tops the list of challenges for engineering firms, and adopting a proactive approach to threat detection is crucial. As cyber-attacks become more sophisticated, the risks and potential consequences become more severe. Strict access control is essential to reduce risk and ensure that only authorized personnel can access critical systems and data. Multi-factor authentication and role-based access controls should be used to limit permissions.  

Regular software updates and patch management are important to limit vulnerability to cyber-attacks, and sensitive data should be encrypted when in transit or at rest. Network security should include a robust firewall, intrusion detection system, and intrusion prevention system, and regular updates to policies and configurations to stay ahead of emerging threats. A proactive approach to cybersecurity should include regular audits and vulnerability assessments to identify and mitigate weaknesses in security. 

Lastly, businesses need a comprehensive incident response plan that outlines the steps to take in a cyber-attack. The plan should include roles and responsibilities, communication protocols, and strategies for minimizing downtime. Cybersecurity is not a one-time effort but an ongoing commitment to safeguarding digital assets in a landscape of rapidly evolving threats. 
 

Addressing Remote Work Challenges 
Remote work has become a defining aspect of the modern workforce and though many companies have encouraged a post-Covid return to offices, a hybrid model will likely be the norm going forward. Along with its numerous benefits, remote work presents unique challenges for IT for engineering firms.  

First, collaboration is at the heart of many engineering projects, so investment in up-to-date infrastructure that includes collaborative tools and video conferencing is crucial. Regular check-ins and team meetings will help maintain community and create a virtual environment where ideas can be shared seamlessly. 

Ensuring that remote employees have secure access to software, data, and computing power is the second crucial component of the remote work puzzle. Engineering firms have increasingly implemented cloud-based solutions and the use of VPNs, as well as providing home-based workstations that can run resource-intensive applications.  

The third challenge to remote work is ensuring privacy and security. Giving remote workers access to intellectual property and sensitive client data means strict cybersecurity protocols must be in place. Training in best practices, secure password management, and avoiding phishing attempts should be mandatory for all employees. Remote work is here to stay and engineering firms that embrace it with strategic planning will be positioned for long-term success. 

Related Posts

Why Password Management Matters 

Did you know that the simplest, best defense against cyberattacks is a solid password? From business logins to online banking to email, passwords are the keys to our digital lives, and therefore valuable targets for hackers. Knowing how to create, manage, and protect passwords isn’t a “nice-to-have;” it’s critical to safeguard your information. 

You might be shocked at how easy it is to obtain your personal login information, and you probably won’t know it’s happened until it’s too late. The dark web–that hidden corner of the internet–is teeming with stolen credentials. Hackers access compromised passwords through data breaches, phishing scams, and malware attacks, then put them up for sale to anyone willing to pay. This makes strong password management, including the use of secure passwords and two-factor authentication (2FA) more important than ever. 

Creating Secure Passwords: Length, Complexity, Uniqueness, Unpredictability

No, “password123” definitely won’t cut it. Neither will the use of birthdates, pet names, or other personal details you may have used previously to answer security questions. Secure passwords should be long (think 12 characters at a minimum), complex (a mix of numbers, letters, and symbols), and unique for every account. The best way to create a password that’s easier to remember is to use a “passphrase,” a series of words or a sentence, rather than a random string of letters and numbers. It can feel overwhelming to keep track of so many passwords, and why many people fall into bad habits like repeating passwords in multiple places, writing them down, or choosing overly simple options. No matter how good a password is, if a hacker gets access to one, they’re likely to try the same password on other platforms, leaving you vulnerable to a more extensive breach.  

Password Managers

Password managers like LastPass can store complex passwords, so you only need to memorize one master password to access the others. Serving as a personal vault for your digital keys, a password manager offers the convenience of auto filling your login details, generating random, hard-to-crack passwords, and notifying you if a saved password appears in a data breach so you can promptly change it. And most password managers sync across devices, so you always have access to your logins. When choosing a password manager, look for features like encryption, ease of use, and compatibility with your devices.  

Adding a Layer with 2FA

Two-factor authentication is like adding a deadbolt to your front door. With 2FA, logging in requires both your password and a second form of verification, like a code texted to your phone or generated by an app. That way, even if someone manages to get ahold of your password, they’ll still need that extra code to access your account, making it more difficult for hackers. Many platforms now offer 2FA and enabling it wherever possible provides a powerful layer of protection. 

Keeping Up Good Password Hygiene

Password management can feel tedious, but regular password changes, avoiding reusing passwords across sites, and using a secure password manager makes a world of difference. Think of it as a routine task, like updating your software or cleaning out your inbox. The steps to secure your passwords and add a second layer of protection are relatively easy and ensure that you’re doing your part to keep both your personal and work-related information safe. 

As data breaches become more and more common and cyberattacks more sophisticated, securing your passwords is one of the smartest moves you can make. It’s just a piece of the larger cybersecurity puzzle, but it’s essential for keeping the doors to your digital information locked. To learn more about how Nessit can help your business protect sensitive data, train and educate employees, and implement password management best practices, get in touch. 

How an IT Managed Service Provider Can Benefit Municipalities

Municipalities face unique challenges when it comes to managing IT infrastructure. From safeguarding data to maintaining compliance with local and state regulations, effective IT management is necessary to ensure municipal operations run smoothly. Budget restrictions can make it difficult to fully staff an IT department that can meet the complex needs of schools, fire, police, planning, clerks, and more. Partnering with a Managed Service Provider can offer valuable support in navigating these challenges through scaled IT solutions that fit your specific needs. 

Municipal Case Study

How can managed or co-managed IT help your municipality? 

  • Comprehensive Cybersecurity 

Because of the sensitive information involved, government organizations are prime targets for cyberattacks. A data breach can compromise citizen data, disrupt essential services, and cause widespread harm, making comprehensive cybersecurity a priority. MSPs provide proactive security measures, including employee education, advanced threat detection, continuous monitoring, strong encryption protocols, and disaster recovery planning. By staying on top of emerging threats, your MSP can ensure that government data and systems remain protected. 

  • Regulatory Compliance 

Government agencies have to adhere to a wide range of regulations related to data security, privacy, and accessibility. Failure to comply can result in hefty fines, legal challenges, and loss of public trust. An experienced MSP will understand the complexity of these regulations and ensure that your organization remains compliant by offering guidance on best practices for data management and implementing policies that meet regulatory standards. An MSP with expertise in navigating the regulatory landscape will allow government agencies to stay focused on their core mission without the added burden of managing compliance.  

  • Improved Efficiency and Productivity 

Efficient IT infrastructure is essential for government organizations to maintain productivity and reduce downtime. A proactive MSP can conduct regular audits to assess IT maturity, address potential vulnerabilities, and optimize performance. Timely support to resolve technical difficulties will enhance day-to-day productivity and ensure the smooth delivery of essential public services. 

  • Cost-Effective IT Management 

Budget constraints are a common concern for government organizations. Partnering with an MSP can be a cost-effective solution by providing access to expert support and supplementing in-house IT staff. An MSP can manage your equipment and licensing, eliminating wasted spend on unnecessary technology, and freeing up valuable resources that can be directed towards other priorities. 

  • Scalable Solutions 

As government organizations grow or their needs shift, IT systems should evolve accordingly. An MSP can offer scalable solutions that seamlessly adapt to your changing needs, whether that means expanding IT infrastructure, integrating new technologies, or enhancing cybersecurity. By providing flexibility and a customized strategy, MSPs ensure that IT systems can scale up or down with your organization. 

  • Reliable Support and Expertise 

Government organizations in particular require reliable IT support to provide uninterrupted public services. MSPs deliver 24/7 monitoring and support to make sure any IT issues are addressed swiftly. From routine maintenance to emergency troubleshooting, MSPs help prevent downtime and keep services running smoothly. 

Partnering with a Managed Service Provider offers many benefits for government organizations–who need reliable, secure, and effective IT systems to fulfill their mission. From robust cybersecurity to regulatory compliance, cost-effective management, and scalable solutions, an MSP can provide tailored solutions to meet your unique needs. By outsourcing IT management to trusted experts, your government agency can focus on serving the public, confident that their infrastructure is in good hands. Learn more about how Nessit’s services can benefit your organization. 

Get in Touch

IT Case Study: New Hampshire Municipality

Municipal governments are responsible for managing and delivering a wide range of essential services in the communities they serve. For all the departments involved to function effectively–from police and fire to social services and public works–a secure and reliable IT infrastructure is essential. The technology necessary to safeguard sensitive data, enable seamless communication, ensure compliance and accessibility, and keep large networks running smoothly can be difficult to navigate.  

At Nessit, we understand the unique needs and challenges that can make IT management complex for local governments. Experience has taught us that these clients often have to contend with budget constraints, aging infrastructure, unnecessary or redundant technology, and–most crucially–the threat of cyberattack. Effective management requires a trusted partner who knows how towns run and can see the big picture while meeting the client where they are.  

So, when a New Hampshire town became dissatisfied with their longtime IT vendor, they went looking for a second opinion. We were one of three managed service providers to submit a bid with remediation plans, and our bid was selected to become this municipality’s IT vendor. 

How did we create a custom proposal for their specific IT needs? First, we took a close look at their current infrastructure to identify and prioritize the issues we’d need to address. We also spent a lot of time listening, so we could begin with a thorough understanding of how the municipality worked and where their system was failing them. We came up with a comprehensive plan to fix the immediate problems, within budget, with the long-term goal of IT maturity. We assured them that Nessit would be an extension of their team and a partner they could count on to pick up the phone when they called.  

The Problem

The municipality’s IT environment wasn’t well-maintained, and because their tech infrastructure had been cobbled together, different departments couldn’t share resources or communicate with each other. The Water and Police Departments couldn’t talk to City Hall; the Highway Department didn’t have high speed internet, while the library was paying for internet they didn’t need. The town had no centralized print services, and employees were sharing login credentials and using a variety of cloud providers. File sharing was an issue, so that sometimes the employee at desk A couldn’t see updates from the employee at desk B. All of this created unnecessary complexity, with too many disconnected silos and no cohesive IT strategy. This system also left the town more vulnerable to cyberattacks, which is a growing problem in New Hampshire. The client needed an MSP who understood dispersed networks and could design and implement a unified IT infrastructure. 

How Nessit Fixed It

First, the system upgrade that their previous MSP attempted had to be reversed and re-done. Nessit reconfigured their server, putting together a unified stack to replace their piecemeal system. By centralizing services, all departments now have high speed internet and can easily communicate and collaborate. We provided everyone with their own login credentials–a crucial factor in improving security.  

Our job was to make their jobs easier by implementing technology that works seamlessly, requiring very little support and eliminating the downtime they had experienced while waiting for help. As the municipality’s budget increased, they asked Nessit to improve efficiencies in other environments, upgrading systems, networks and workstations. Our team ensured that all data was backed up and put a failover system in place. We created a data retention policy to reduce risk and ensure they maintained compliance with regulations.  

Most importantly, we built a personal relationship with the client, showing them what a true partnership is by listening to their questions and responding quickly to issues that arise. Our work is ongoing, and we continue to move the municipality towards IT maturity, spacing work out to fit their allocated budget.  

At Nessit, our clients’ success is our success. Every municipality faces different challenges and IT solutions need to be tailored to their unique needs. A Managed Service Provider should have a thorough understanding of dispersed networks, how towns run, and how to invest wisely in IT while respecting budget constraints. The need for robust security to counter the ever-growing threat of cyberattacks is critical, and often underestimated until a breach occurs and it’s too late. Nessit’s comprehensive management includes everything from employee education on security best practices, disaster recovery and continuity planning, and 24/7 monitoring. An MSP can provide a wealth of benefits for municipalities, ensuring smooth day-to-day operations so employees can focus on their core duties–ensuring safety, wellbeing, and quality of life for their community. 

If you’re a local government administrator looking for efficient, cost-effective IT solutions and support, we would love to put you in touch with other towns so you can hear firsthand how they’ve been positively impacted. Contact us. 

Get in Touch