The 3 Essentials for a Smooth-Running Business

Businesses need a solid foundation to thrive. This foundation is built upon three key pillars: a reliable Help Desk, robust Data Backup, and a trusted Authorized Reseller. Let's explore how these elements can transform your business operations.

1. Help Desk: Hiver

Hiver, a powerful front-end alternative to Gmail, offers a streamlined and collaborative approach to email management. Experience the convenience of unified team communication and effortless Google Workspace integration.. Bid farewell to inbox chaos with shared email accounts and explore additional features that boost productivity and enhance customer service.

2. Data Backup: Afi.ai

Data is your business's lifeblood. Afi.ai automatically backs up your data in the cloud, creating a secure copy that's readily available in case of emergencies. Even if your local server crashes, your information stays safe and accessible. This gives you peace of mind and keeps your business operating smoothly.

3. Authorized Reseller: Interlock IT

Think of an authorized Google/Microsoft reseller like Interlock IT as your software advisor. Need to switch to Google Workspace or set up Microsoft 365 for your team? Interlock IT provides expert guidance and handles the implementation seamlessly. They understand your specific needs and recommend the perfect software suite to boost your team's efficiency and collaboration. With Interlock IT, you skip the guesswork, get the right tools, and ensure a smooth transition for everyone.

The Teamwork Effect: Building a Stronger Business

Now imagine these three components working together. Hiver handles your customer queries, Afi.ai keeps your data safe, and Interlock IT equips you with the right tools. You've built a strong digital foundation that keeps your business running smoothly and efficiently. It's like having a whole another team working behind the scenes, empowering your team to achieve incredible results.

Ready to Build Your Business Trinity?

Don't wait for a tech disaster! Take control of your IT infrastructure today. Explore Hiver's user-friendly help desk, Afi.ai's secure data backup, and Interlock IT's expert Google/Microsoft reseller services. These three tools are the key to business success Get started today.

A Tailored Solution for Seamless Google to Google Migration

Migrating data from one Google account to another can be a complex process, whether it is consolidation or restructuring. Interlock IT has successfully completed Google to Google migrations for companies with thousands of users, ensuring a smooth transition without data loss or disruption. This case study details how Interlock IT tackled a challenging migration for a client using a custom-built tool.  

The Challenge:

A client encountered significant challenges during their Google to Google data migration using BitTitan MigrationWiz. The team noticed that the migration was taking a long time and not making much progress. While initially experiencing slow progress migrating emails, the process eventually stalled completely. The team realized there was a problem. A BitTitan support representative finally admitted there was an issue on their end but didn't fix it quickly despite numerous follow ups and requests for escalation of this major issue. After over 30 days, it became clear that Bittitan was unwilling to fix this core software issue that essentially renders their migration tool useless for this and similar customers. We were unable to even receive a refund from BitTitan and faced the messy challenge of cleaning up a partially completed email migration. After protesting, we were at least offered license credits.

The software's inability to handle large-scale migrations due to API throttling resulted in a partially-completed migration, delays, increased costs, and disruptions to the client's operations. API throttling is a method used to control the rate at which a client can send requests to a web API. By failing to manage the frequency of its requests to Google's APIs, the software couldn't process the volume of data, leading to the aforementioned problems.

The InterlockIT Solution:

To overcome these challenges, Interlock IT developed a custom migration tool that was specifically designed to address the client's needs. Our team leveraged their expertise in the Gmail API and Go programming language to create a proof-of-concept tool that efficiently migrated data with deduplication. This success formed the foundation for a fully functional custom migration solution.

Key Features of Our Custom Tool:

• API Quota Management: Our tool was carefully engineered to be mindful of Gmail's API limits, ensuring a smooth and uninterrupted data transfer without exceeding the platform's restrictions.
• Data Deduplication: Deduplication is the process of identifying whether an email message has already been transferred.To avoid unnecessary data duplication and optimize the migration process, our tool incorporated a deduplication feature. In this case, this saved us from “starting over” as MigrationWiz has already migrated a large percentage of the content.
• Scalability:  Handles large-scale migrations and massive mailboxes (e.g., 100GB, 2 million messages) without the failures experienced during the initial attempt.

The Results:

With our custom migration tool in place, the client was able to successfully complete their large-scale Google to Google migration project. The results were impressive:

• Increased Efficiency: Our tool's design and optimized processes significantly reduced the migration time, minimizing disruptions to the client's operations. By incorporating deduplication features and optimizing request rates, our tool can efficiently handle large-scale migrations without the risks encountered when using the third party tool.
• Cost Savings: By eliminating the need for additional migration licenses and avoiding costly delays, the client achieved substantial cost savings.
• Improved Reliability: Our tool's ability to effectively manage API quotas and deduplicate data ensured a stable and reliable migration process, minimizing the risk of errors or data loss.
• Unique Capability: The tool's unique ability to identify and skip previously migrated messages allows it to seamlessly complete incomplete migrations, setting it apart from other solutions.

Why Choose Interlock IT:

At Interlock IT, we deliver tailored solutions for complex data migration challenges. We understand successful migrations require more than technology; clear communication, realistic expectations, and ongoing support are equally important.

Our team of experienced professionals possesses deep expertise in various data migration technologies and methodologies. With our in-house expertise and flexibility, we can quickly adapt to unique requirements and provide tailored solutions. 

By choosing Interlock IT, you can be confident that your data migration projects will be handled with the utmost care and efficiency. We leverage our technical expertise and innovative approach to ensure a seamless and successful transition. 

Take Control of Your Gmail with Hiver

Are you frustrated with the limitations of Gmail's interface? Do you long for a more efficient and collaborative email experience? If so, Hiver might be the perfect solution for you.

Hiver is a front-end alternative for Gmail that offers a user-friendly and streamlined way to manage your email. Unlike Front, which is a completely new email client, Hiver works seamlessly on top of your existing Gmail account. This means you won't have to switch between different platforms or migrate your emails.

Here's a breakdown of what makes Hiver stand out:

1. Simplicity and Ease of Use

Hiver boasts a clean and intuitive interface that's easier to use than Front's more complex design. This makes it ideal for users who prefer a straightforward email experience. The platform's straightforward layout and clear labeling ensure that you can quickly find the features you need without getting lost in a maze of menus and options.

2. Leveraging the Power of Gmail

By integrating directly with Gmail, Hiver eliminates the need to learn a new email system. You can continue using all your familiar Gmail features and functionalities within Hiver's user-friendly interface. This means that you can easily access your contacts, labels, filters, and other Gmail features without having to switch between different platforms.

3. Enhanced Collaboration

Hiver offers a range of features that make it easy for teams to collaborate on email projects. Shared inboxes allow multiple team members to work together on a single email account, while assignment rules automatically route emails to the appropriate team member based on specific criteria. This helps to improve efficiency and ensure that all emails are handled promptly and accurately.

4. Powerful Automation Features

Hiver's automation tools can help you streamline your workflow and save time. You can create rules to automatically forward emails, assign tasks, and update labels. This frees you up to focus on more important tasks and helps to improve your productivity.

5. Strong Focus on Data Privacy

Unlike Front, which stores your emails on its servers, Hiver doesn't store your emails. This gives you more control over your data and ensures your privacy. Your emails remain securely stored on Gmail's servers, where they are protected by Google's robust security measures.

6. Affordable Pricing

Hiver offers a range of pricing plans to suit the needs of businesses of all sizes. The platform is competitively priced, making it an affordable option for teams and individuals who want to improve their email workflow.

Conclusion

Hiver is a compelling alternative for Gmail users seeking a more user-friendly and collaborative email experience. Its seamless integration with Gmail, intuitive interface, and focus on data privacy make it a strong contender in the email client market.

If you're looking to streamline your email workflow and boost your productivity, get started with Hiver today.

Centralize Your Startup's Operations with Google Workspace

When starting a business, it's important to have a system that helps you work efficiently and stay organized. Google Workspace is a great tool for this. It's like having a personal assistant that helps you manage your team, collaborate on projects, and keep track of your business.

Why Google Workspace is a great choice for startups:

• Easy to use and reliable: Google Workspace is simple to use and works smoothly, unlike other tools that can be complicated or buggy. It's straightforward to use and doesn't have any hidden tricks or glitches.
• Secure collaboration: When you're working with a team, it's important that everyone has access to the information they need. Google Workspace makes it easy to share documents and folders with your team. You can decide who can see what, and you can easily revoke access if someone leaves the team.
• All-in-one solution: Google Workspace has all the tools you need to run your business, all in one place. You can use Google Meet for video calls, Google Calendar for scheduling meetings, and Google Analytics to track your website's performance.
• Ownership and control:  When you create something, you want to be the owner. With Google Workspace, you always own the work your team creates. This means that you have full control over your business assets. If you need to share something with someone outside your team, you can do so without giving up ownership.

Key benefits:

• Simplified collaboration: Easily share documents and folders with your team.
• Centralized workflow: Manage all your tasks in one place.
• Ownership and control: Keep your business assets secure.

Pro tip: Start using Google Workspace from the beginning to ensure you have full control over your business from day one.

Google Workspace is more than just a tool; it's a strategy for helping your startup succeed.

Conclusion

As Canada's leading Google Partner, we're your trusted advisor for agile, cost-effective solutions that fit your business, big or small.

Interlock IT empowers your business with tailored billing options, from flexible monthly plans to cost-saving annual subscriptions. Enjoy the freedom to choose from a variety of payment methods that suit your needs.

Join the millions of businesses and billions of monthly active users who rely on Google Workspace. Boost your team's productivity, streamline your workflow, and present a professional image.

Contact us today to learn more about how Interlock IT can help your business.

Maximize Your Business with Gen AI

Are you tired of spending hours on tasks that could be automated? Generative AI (Gen AI) is here to revolutionize how you run your business.

What is a Gen AI power user?

A Gen AI power user is someone who knows how to use Gen AI tools to their full potential. They understand what Gen AI can do, how to give it clear instructions, and how to use it to solve real-world and/or business problems.

Why should you become a Gen AI power user?

• Save time and money: Gen AI can automate repetitive tasks, freeing up your time to focus on more important things.
• Improve your productivity: Gen AI can help you generate new ideas, brainstorm solutions, and create high-quality content.
• Stay ahead of the competition: Gen AI is a powerful tool that can give your business a competitive edge.

How to become a Gen AI power user:

1. Learn the basics: Start by learning the basics of Gen AI. There are many resources available online, including tutorials, articles, and courses.
2. Experiment: Don't be afraid to experiment with different Gen AI tools and techniques. The more you use Gen AI, the better you'll become at it.
3. Get help from experts: If you're struggling to use Gen AI, there are many experts who can help you. You can hire a consultant or join a community of other Gen AI users.

5 essential skills for Gen AI power users:

• Prompt engineering: The ability to write clear and concise instructions for Gen AI. Gen AI, like humans, relies on context. Gen AI users provide clear instructions, including who's asking, background information, and the desired output format. They experiment with different prompts to achieve specific outcomes. For example, a business owner might ask Gemini to simulate a skeptical purchasing manager to identify weaknesses in a product pitch.
• Idea generation: The ability to use Gen AI to generate new ideas and brainstorm solutions. Starting from scratch is challenging. Gen AI power users use it as a springboard for new ideas and to explore unconventional solutions. A business owner can generate multiple tagline ideas by providing product details and desired tone. 
• Content creation: The ability to use Gen AI to create high-quality content, such as articles, blog posts, and marketing materials.
• Data analysis: The ability to use Gen AI to analyze data and identify trends. Gen AI can quickly search the internet or documents for relevant information. While AI tools are still learning to evaluate source quality, Gen AI users cross-check results from multiple reliable sources. Effective prompting can also guide AI tools towards specific resources.
• Automation: The ability to use Gen AI to automate repetitive tasks.

Conclusion:

Becoming a Gen AI power user can significantly enhance your business's performance. By mastering these essential skills, you can gain a competitive edge and drive growth.

Why Partnering with a Google Workspace Reseller is Your Business's Best Move

For small businesses, adopting Google Workspace can be a quick and easy transition. In a single day, your company and its employees can become familiar with the various applications offered by Google Workspace. 

When considering Google Workspace as your new collaboration and communication platform, or even if you're switching from another one, it's essential to evaluate your options. You can choose between purchasing directly from Google or working with a partner reseller. To make an informed decision, carefully consider the factors outlined below.

Direct Purchase from Google

You can begin a 14-day free trial using your credit card to assess Google Workspace. However, before entering your information and starting the trial, it's crucial to carefully consider the significant consequences involved.

After registering your company details and domain name on the Google Workspace website, your information becomes permanently linked to Google's system. This means you'll be unable to benefit from certain promotions that may be available through reseller partners.

Recent Changes in Google's Policy

Google has recently adjusted its margin structure for reseller partners. The new policy substantially decreases the margins for resellers when they acquire so-called 'transfer' customers from Google or another reseller. In essence, the margins are nearly non-existent after credit card fees. Consequently, resellers have little incentive to acquire existing Google Workspace customers due to minimal profit margins.

If you've decided to purchase your Google Apps for Work subscription through a reseller, here's what you should also be aware of:

Google Services Partners

Resellers participating in Google's Services Track 'offer services to customers, including sales, consulting, training, implementation, and technical support for Google for Work products.'

Google Technology Partners

Resellers that are part of Google's Technology Track 'develop products that complement, enhance, or expand the reach or functionality of Google for Work products.' In essence, if you're seeking a reseller to assist you not only with setting up basic Google services but also with app integration and custom development, you'll need a Google Technology Partner.

Benefits of Using a Google Partner

When you buy or start a free trial through a Google Workspace partner, several benefits become available:

Promotional Offers and Payment Flexibility: Resellers often provide promotional deals and more adaptable payment options compared to purchasing directly from Google.

Enhanced Support: While Google offers round-the-clock support, resellers generally provide better-managed support tailored to your specific requirements.

Additional Support Channel: If you're a direct customer and dissatisfied with Google Workspace support, your only option is to deal directly with Google. However, working with a reseller provides an additional support channel. This extra layer of support can be instrumental in resolving issues more effectively.

Flexible Options and Added Value: Resellers can offer flexible options and added value, such as negotiation opportunities, data migration, backup solutions, and supplementary features to enhance your Google Workspace experience.

Strategic Flexibility: Beginning with a reseller offers long-term strategic advantages. If your business needs to switch platforms in the future, a reseller can facilitate a smoother transition. If you transition directly to Google, resellers may have less interest in acquiring you again, limiting your future flexibility.

Long-Term Strategy

It's often more advantageous to begin with a reseller and transition to Google if you're dissatisfied. This approach enables you to experience the full range of benefits that resellers offer without committing to a direct relationship with Google initially.

Partnering with a reseller offers a strategic advantage as your business expands. If you need to transition from Google Workspace to a different platform, resellers ensure a smoother transition.

Contact Interlock IT

Since 2009, we've successfully migrated hundreds of organizations and thousands of users to Google Workspace. As Canada's pioneering Google Partner, we're your trusted experts in agile, cost-effective solutions for businesses of all sizes.

Interlock IT empowers your business with tailored billing options, from flexible monthly plans to cost-saving annual subscriptions. Enjoy the freedom to choose from a variety of payment methods that suit your needs.

Be part of the millions of businesses and billions of monthly active users who rely on Google Workspace. Boost your team's productivity and present a professional image with ease.

Calling All Microsoft Teams Users: Choosing the Best VoIP Partner

Your business thrives within the Microsoft ecosystem, leveraging Teams for seamless communication and collaboration. But to truly take your communication to the next level, you're considering adding VoIP calling. However, with so many VoIP providers out there, picking the best fit can be quite difficult.

This article dives deep into two popular VoIP solutions designed to integrate flawlessly with your existing Microsoft environment. We'll compare voip.ms and RingCentral, focusing on pricing (considering both annual subscriptions) and key features, to help you make an informed decision and select the ideal VoIP partner for your business needs.

1. RingCentral: The All-in-One Powerhouse

Pros:

• Effortless Integration: RingCentral seamlessly integrates with Microsoft Teams, offering a plug-in for a hassle-free connection. This means minimal setup time and a familiar user experience.
• Comprehensive Features: RingCentral offers a wide range of features out of the box, including voicemail transcription, call recording, and analytics. Businesses looking for a feature-rich solution won't be disappointed.
• Dedicated Customer Support: RingCentral offers readily available customer support for any issues that may arise.

Cons:

• Higher Cost: RingCentral is generally more expensive than voip.ms, with tiered pricing based on features and user count.
• Less Customization: While offering plenty of features, RingCentral provides less customization compared to voip.ms.

Microsoft Licenses + RingCentral Pricing

Microsoft License	Currency	License Price	Teams Phone Standard	RingCentral Core	Pricing (Starts at)
Business Standard	CAD	$17.00	$10.90	$30.00	$57.90
	USD	$12.50	$8.00	$20.00	$40.50
Business Premium	CAD	$29.90	$10.90	$30.00	$70.80
	USD	$22.00	$8.00	$20.00	$50.00

*All prices below are annual subscriptions. Monthly cancel at anytime pricing for Microsoft licenses are a 20% premium

2. voip.ms

Pros:

• Unbeatable Pricing: voip.ms offers the most flexible and cost-effective option, only $4.95 for unlimited calls. Perfect for businesses with fluctuating call volume or those on a tight budget.
• No Teams? No Problem! Even without Microsoft Teams, voip.ms offers the flexibility of a full PBX solution. Utilize softphones and enjoy all the features for just $4.95 per user per month. No RingCentral or Microsoft licenses required! 
• Customization: Users can tailor the system to their specific needs with a wide range of features and add-ons, like call recording (at a nominal cost of a quarter penny per minute in USD) and auto attendants.
• Microsoft Teams Integration: Integrate voip.ms with Teams using Teams Voice Connector, enabling seamless call management within the familiar Microsoft interface.
• Tailored for Your Needs: Advanced users can customize the system extensively with a wide range of features and add-ons. This includes call recording, auto attendants, IVR (Interactive Voice Response) systems, call queues, SMS integration, and more. Essentially, you get a complete phone system without managing your own PBX server.
• User-Friendly Management: The voip.ms customer portal allows easy configuration of call queues, creation of voice prompts, management of on-hold messages, and customization of call handling during business and non-business hours.
• Responsive Support: Benefit from 24/7 customer support that offers prompt assistance.

Cons:

• DIY Setup: Setting up voip.ms might require some technical knowledge, which could be a hurdle for businesses with limited IT resources.

Microsoft Licenses + voip.ms pricing

Microsoft License	Currency	License Price	Teams Phone Standard	Teams Voice Connector	Voip Calling Plan	Pricing (Starts at)
Business Standard	CAD	$17.00	$10.90	~$6.17	~$6.78	~$40.85
	USD	$12.50	$8.00	$4.50	$4.95	$29.95
Business Premium	CAD	$29.90	$10.90	~$6.17	~$6.78	~$53.75
	USD	$22.00	$8.00	$4.50	$4.95	$39.45

*All prices below are annual subscriptions. Monthly cancel at anytime pricing for Microsoft licenses are a 20% premium

Ringcentral vs voip.ms savings per employee/month/year

Microsoft License	Currency	RingCentral Core	voip.ms	Savings per Employee/month	Savings per Employee/year
Business Standard	CAD	$57.90	$40.85	$17.05	$204.60
	USD	$40.50	$29.95	$10.55	$126.60
Business Premium	CAD	$70.80	$53.75	$17.05	$204.60
	USD	$50.00	$39.45	$10.55	$126.60

Still need more data? Take a look at softwareadvice.com’s comparison.

The Verdict: voip.ms Takes the Cake 

For small businesses already using Microsoft Teams and seeking the most budget-friendly VoIP solution, voip.ms is the clear champion. Its unlimited plan allows for maximum control over your communication costs, and the customization options give you the flexibility to grow with your business. By leveraging voip.ms, you can stretch your hard-earned dollars further and unlock a powerful communication solution for your thriving Microsoft ecosystem.