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10 strategies and tactics for It Support

What is It Support strategy?

Every great achievement starts with a well-thought-out plan. It can be the launch of a new product, expanding into new markets, or just trying to increase efficiency. You'll need a delicate combination of strategies and tactics to ensure that the journey is smooth and effective.

Crafting the perfect It Support strategy can feel overwhelming, particularly when you're juggling daily responsibilities. That's why we've put together a collection of examples to spark your inspiration.

Copy these examples into your preferred app, or you can also use Tability to keep yourself accountable.

How to write your own It Support strategy with AI

While we have some examples available, it's likely that you'll have specific scenarios that aren't covered here. You can use our free AI generator below or our more complete goal-setting system to generate your own strategies.

It Support strategy examples

You'll find below a list of It Support tactics. We also included action items for each template to make it more practical and useful.

Strategies and tactics for enhancing IT Support for Store Operations

  • ⛳️ Strategy 1: Establish a Dedicated IT Support Team

    • Recruit and hire skilled IT professionals with expertise in managing retail technologies
    • Define clear roles and responsibilities for IT support staff
    • Train team members on the specific technologies used in the store such as POS, CCTV, and biometrics
    • Develop a protocol for handling common IT issues and resolutions
    • Set up a ticketing system for tracking and managing support requests
    • Implement a monitoring system to oversee the health of all IT equipment
    • Schedule regular team meetings to discuss issues and share solutions
    • Create a knowledge base for common troubleshooting steps and solutions
    • Establish KPIs to measure the effectiveness of IT support responses
    • Ensure continuous development of staff through regular training and certifications

  • ⛳️ Strategy 2: Implement Preventive Maintenance and Monitoring

    • Carry out a comprehensive audit of existing IT systems and equipment
    • Set up automated monitoring tools to detect and alert for issues in real-time
    • Schedule regular maintenance checks for all IT hardware including POS, CCTV, and printers
    • Create maintenance logs to record all checks and any remedial action taken
    • Develop a maintenance calendar for routine updates and hardware inspections
    • Establish regular data backup protocols to prevent loss of information
    • Implement software updates and patches across all systems systematically
    • Train staff on proper equipment usage to minimise unnecessary wear and tear
    • Evaluate hardware lifespan and prepare for timely replacements and upgrades
    • Regularly review and update all preventive measures based on emerging technologies

  • ⛳️ Strategy 3: Enhance Communication and Response Protocols

    • Create an IT support hotline dedicated for store personnel
    • Develop communication guidelines for raising IT issues promptly and clearly
    • Prioritise issues based on impact and urgency with clear response times
    • Establish a direct line of communication between store managers and IT support
    • Implement a feedback loop to improve IT service quality and responsiveness
    • Set up emergency protocols for critical system failures like POS outages
    • Develop a standard operating procedure for handling IT-related customer issues
    • Identify and document points of failure for each technology in use
    • Engage with technology vendors for priority support arrangements
    • Regularly update emergency contact lists and escalation procedures
it-supportretail-technologiesit-support-specialistsystem-analystit-support-teamstore-operations-team
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Strategies and tactics for migrating staff to Windows 11

  • ⛳️ Strategy 1: Plan the migration

    • Conduct a hardware compatibility check for all 1500 staff machines
    • Create a detailed migration timeline with key milestones
    • Ensure all necessary licences and software are acquired
    • Develop a risk assessment and mitigation plan
    • Identify and train a project team to handle the migration
    • Create a communication plan to inform staff of the migration
    • Prepare documentation and training materials for staff
    • Set up a helpdesk or support team for post-migration issues
    • Determine backup procedures for data protection
    • Acquire additional resources if needed for successful migration

  • ⛳️ Strategy 2: Deploy in stages

    • Divide staff into manageable groups for phased deployment
    • Start with a pilot group to identify potential issues
    • Schedule migration sessions during off-peak hours
    • Monitor the pilot group’s transition and gather feedback
    • Adjust the migration plan based on pilot feedback
    • Roll out the migration to subsequent groups one at a time
    • Provide on-site support during each group’s migration
    • Ensure data and application consistency after each phase
    • Update progress and issues daily with the project team
    • Collect post-migration feedback from each group for continuous improvement

  • ⛳️ Strategy 3: Ensure post-migration support

    • Implement a post-migration helpdesk to handle immediate issues
    • Schedule follow-up training sessions for staff
    • Monitor system performance and user satisfaction continuously
    • Regularly check for and install Windows 11 updates
    • Conduct regular team meetings to discuss ongoing issues
    • Document common problems and solutions for reference
    • Arrange for ongoing technical support from the software vendor
    • Encourage staff feedback on the new OS experience
    • Regularly review and improve internal IT processes
    • Plan for periodic audits to ensure compliance and efficiency
migrationwindows-11project-managerit-support-specialistit-support-teammigration-project-team
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Strategies and tactics for migrating users from Windows 10 to Windows 11

  • ⛳️ Strategy 1: Communicate and plan

    • Announce the migration plan to all users via email and intranet
    • Schedule meetings with department heads to discuss migration timelines
    • Create a migration FAQ document and distribute it
    • Establish a helpdesk for migration-related queries
    • Notify users about the features and benefits of Windows 11
    • Set up a migration timeline with milestones
    • Identify and list critical applications that need testing
    • Inform users about any potential downtime
    • Provide clear instructions for backup and data preservation
    • Create a feedback loop for users to report issues and suggestions

  • ⛳️ Strategy 2: Test and prepare

    • Select a pilot group of users to test the Windows 11 migration
    • Ensure critical applications are compatible with Windows 11
    • Configure a test environment to simulate the migration
    • Document any issues encountered during the pilot phase
    • Adjust migration plans based on pilot feedback
    • Prepare a step-by-step guide for the migration process
    • Create a checklist for post-migration tasks
    • Gather resources such as software keys and drivers
    • Ensure all hardware meets Windows 11 requirements
    • Develop a contingency plan for unexpected issues

  • ⛳️ Strategy 3: Execute and support

    • Initiate the migration process department by department
    • Perform regular check-ins with users during their migration
    • Provide on-site and remote support for any technical issues
    • Monitor the migration progress and update the timeline as needed
    • Ensure users' data is successfully transferred and accessible
    • Train users on Windows 11 features and functionalities
    • Keep communication channels open for troubleshooting
    • Collect feedback from users post-migration
    • Address any reported issues promptly
    • Evaluate the overall success of the migration plan and document lessons learned
migrationefficiencyit-managerhelpdesk-support-specialistit-support-teamuser-training-team
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Strategies and tactics for enabling photocopying capabilities for a member of staff

  • ⛳️ Strategy 1: Determine and address technical issues

    • Confirm the member of staff’s device is connected to the printer
    • Check printer accessibility rights for the staff member
    • Verify printer drivers are installed and updated on the staff member’s computer
    • Review the printer settings to ensure photocopying and scanning features are enabled
    • Check network connectivity and resolve any issues affecting printer access
    • Restart printer and connected devices to ensure communication is properly established
    • Test printer capabilities using an administrator account
    • Look for error messages on the printer and resolve them
    • Ensure that the printer firmware is updated to the latest version
    • Provide troubleshooting steps and guidance to the staff member

  • ⛳️ Strategy 2: Configure user permissions and settings

    • Access the printer's control panel and navigate to user management settings
    • Add the staff member to the list of authorised users with appropriate permissions
    • Assign necessary roles and permissions to enable photocopying and scanning
    • Set up user-specific codes or authentication methods if required
    • Configure default scanning and photocopying settings for the staff member
    • Ensure the staff member's unique identification is recognised by the printer
    • Perform a test scan and photocopy operation to confirm capability
    • Provide detailed instructions on how to use the photocopying and scanning features
    • Create a troubleshooting guide specific to common photocopying and scanning issues
    • Log and communicate the changes to IT support for future reference

  • ⛳️ Strategy 3: Train and support the member of staff

    • Schedule a one-on-one training session with the staff member
    • Provide a comprehensive guide on using the printer’s photocopying and scanning features
    • Demonstrate step-by-step processes during the training session
    • Prepare a quick reference sheet summarising key steps
    • Offer additional remote support if the staff member encounters further issues
    • Introduce them to the printer’s user manual and online resources
    • Encourage the staff member to ask questions and provide immediate feedback
    • Ensure they know how to contact IT support for future issues
    • Follow up after a few days to ensure they are comfortable with the new capabilities
    • Gather feedback on the training session and update resources accordingly
printer-setupstaff-trainingit-supportprinter-administratorit-departmentoffice-support-staff
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Strategies and tactics for developing a Strategic Plan for Technical Support

  • ⛳️ Strategy 1: Enhance self-service capabilities

    • Implement comprehensive knowledge base articles on ServiceNow for common user issues
    • Develop instructional videos for JAMF and Intune functionalities
    • Regularly update self-help resources based on user feedback and issue trends
    • Integrate a chatbot on ServiceNow to guide users to the right resources
    • Promote self-service options through internal communications channels
    • Utilise analytics to identify top issues that can be addressed through self-service
    • Regular training for offshore Tier 1 team to reduce escalation of common issues
    • Establish KPIs to measure reduction in calls and monitor self-service usage
    • Schedule regular reviews of self-service resources to ensure accuracy
    • Incorporate user feedback loops to continuously improve the knowledge base

  • ⛳️ Strategy 2: Strengthen internal and external communication

    • Create an outreach process for SMBC MANUBANK and Jenius Bank to clarify support channels
    • Establish regular IT updates through newsletters or webcasts for both bank entities
    • Develop an Executive support team to address high-priority issues swiftly
    • Create detailed communication protocols for off-shore and internal technical teams
    • Ensure consistent messaging and support level agreement with SMBC stakeholders
    • Implement an internal communication platform for rapid exchanges between support staff
    • Coordinate regular meetings between IT and business units to align priorities
    • Engage with stakeholders to gather input on communication improvements
    • Provide training to enhance communication skills of technical support staff
    • Conduct bi-annual satisfaction surveys with all entities to refine communication strategies

  • ⛳️ Strategy 3: Optimise resources and processes

    • Implement ITAM support and integration processes with SMBC for asset management
    • Set up a prioritised project board for ongoing strategic projects
    • Streamline shipping and receiving processes for handling employee equipment
    • Utilise ServiceNow to automate ticket assignment and escalation processes
    • Develop a detailed plan for Avaya phone retirement and Vonage CCaaS implementation
    • Collaborate with InfoSec to support projects like Netskope and audit processes
    • Create a testing and deployment schedule for Windows 11 across departments
    • Coordinate with branch offices for seamless branch moves and technology upgrades
    • Evaluate and enhance current domain trust initiatives with SMBC MANUBANK
    • Measure and track resource allocation and efficiency through performance metrics
self-servicecommunicationtechnical-supportexecutive-supportit-teamcommunications-team
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Strategies and tactics for suggesting technical features for rent office spaces in India

  • ⛳️ Strategy 1: Implement high-speed and reliable internet connectivity

    • Conduct a survey of available internet service providers in the area
    • Negotiate corporate packages with providers for reduced rates
    • Install redundant internet connections for backup during outages
    • Enable Wi-Fi coverage throughout the office space
    • Ensure regular speed checks and service interruptions monitoring
    • Facilitate cloud services for data storage and communication
    • Provide support for configuring VPNs for secure remote access
    • Offer guidelines for optimising bandwidth usage
    • Maintain reliable contact points for technical support
    • Assess cutting-edge internet technologies for future upgrades

  • ⛳️ Strategy 2: Establish modern and flexible IT infrastructure

    • Integrate power backup systems like UPS and generators
    • Install modular furniture with embedded power and data ports
    • Set up a centralised server room with climate control
    • Use scalable network systems to accommodate varying workloads
    • Implement VoIP for efficient and scalable communication
    • Facilitate BYOD policies through proper network security
    • Offer various office hardware like printers and copiers as needed
    • Organise regular audits of IT equipment for maintenance and upgrades
    • Provide secure access control systems for facilities and data
    • Explore the use of IoT devices for better office management

  • ⛳️ Strategy 3: Create an environment conducive to digital collaboration

    • Set up video conferencing rooms with high-quality AV equipment
    • Integrate project management and collaborative software solutions
    • Provide training sessions on digital tools available
    • Create shared digital workspaces accessible to all employees
    • Equip meeting rooms with digital boards and smart presentations tools
    • Implement hot-desking software to manage workspace allocation
    • Facilitate remote working tools and software for employees
    • Ensure tech support availability for troubleshooting digital issues
    • Install wayfinding technologies to help employees navigate spaces
    • Evaluate new emerging digital solutions for workspace collaboration
internet-connectivityit-infrastructureinternet-service-managerit-infrastructure-specialistit-support-teamdigital-collaboration-team
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Strategies and tactics for achieving Maturity Level 1 in the Essential Eight

  • ⛳️ Strategy 1: Implement daily backups

    • Schedule automatic daily backups using reliable software
    • Test backup restoration processes monthly to ensure reliability
    • Store backups in a different physical location from primary data sources
    • Encrypt backup files to secure sensitive information
    • Maintain a log of all backup and restoration activities
    • Limit access to backup systems to authorised personnel only
    • Inform team members about backup procedures and responsibilities
    • Regularly update backup software to the latest version
    • Review and update backup policies annually
    • Ensure cloud-based backups comply with organisational policies

  • ⛳️ Strategy 2: Harden user application settings

    • Disable unnecessary software features on all user devices
    • Apply security patches to applications within 30 days of release
    • Restrict user ability to install or run unauthorized applications
    • Implement application whitelisting to prevent execution of unknown software
    • Regularly audit applications for vulnerabilities or outdated versions
    • Conduct bi-annual training for employees on application security best practices
    • Monitor application behaviour for anomalies and report incidents
    • Enforce password policies for applications requiring complex credentials
    • Limit access to sensitive applications based on user roles
    • Document and review application security settings quarterly

  • ⛳️ Strategy 3: Enforce baseline cyber hygiene

    • Install antivirus software on all organisational devices
    • Schedule regular updates for all software to maintain the latest security patches
    • Implement a user education programme focusing on phishing and online threats
    • Restrict administrative privileges based on user needs and responsibilities
    • Conduct security awareness sessions twice a year
    • Establish a protocol for reporting suspicious cyber activity
    • Regularly review access controls to critical systems
    • Use multi-factor authentication for securing access to important accounts
    • Log and monitor all network and system activities continuously
    • Review and update the organisation's cybersecurity policy annually
cybersecurityessential-eightit-managercybersecurity-analystit-supportsecurity-compliance
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Strategies and tactics for upgrading school devices to Windows 11

  • ⛳️ Strategy 1: Conduct an inventory assessment

    • Identify all devices currently running Windows 10 in the school
    • Categorise devices based on user groups: teachers, admin team, and students
    • Check technical specifications of each device to ensure compatibility with Windows 11
    • Create a list of devices eligible for upgrade
    • Identify devices that may require hardware upgrades before upgrading
    • Schedule time for assessment of devices requiring physical checks
    • Evaluate the software installed on devices for compatibility with Windows 11
    • Document any licensing considerations or requirements
    • Compile a report of findings and necessary actions for review
    • Secure administrative buy-in with the report for further actions

  • ⛳️ Strategy 2: Develop a phased upgrade plan

    • Plan upgrade phases based on user groups to minimise disruption
    • Prioritise critical users such as the admin team and key teaching staff
    • Schedule specific dates and times for each group’s upgrades
    • Allocate IT resources and personnel for each upgrade phase
    • Prepare a timeline for each phase maintaining the July 22nd deadline
    • Establish backup procedures to prevent data loss before upgrading
    • Communicate the upgrade plan to all users including timelines and expectations
    • Set up a centralised support team to assist with upgrade-related queries
    • Create a contingency plan for potential delays or issues
    • Evaluate progress at each phase to ensure timelines are maintained

  • ⛳️ Strategy 3: Provide training and support for users

    • Develop training materials highlighting changes from Windows 10 to Windows 11
    • Organise training sessions for staff and students with tailored content per group
    • Create an online help centre with FAQs and troubleshooting guides
    • Offer drop-in support sessions throughout the upgrade process
    • Ensure IT staff are trained on support and troubleshooting for Windows 11
    • Circulate guides on optimising device performance with Windows 11 features
    • Collect feedback from early upgrade participants to refine support materials
    • Implement a tracking system for user-reported issues
    • Provide ongoing support after upgrades to ensure smooth transition
    • Regularly update the school community on the progress of the rollout
device-upgradewindows-11it-technicianproject-managerit-supportadministration
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Strategies and tactics for becoming the Most Trusted and Customer-Centric Financial Institution

  • ⛳️ Strategy 1: Develop tailored banking solutions

    • Conduct comprehensive market research to understand customer segments and their needs
    • Analyse customer data to identify preferences and personalise offerings
    • Create flexible banking products that adapt to varying customer needs
    • Enhance services with tailored customer support options
    • Provide regular training for staff on personalisation techniques
    • Develop feedback mechanisms to refine and enhance tailored solutions
    • Set up cross-functional teams to drive innovation in product development
    • Explore partnerships with fintech firms to enhance offerings
    • Implement a customer relationship management system for better customer insights
    • Monitor and evaluate the impact of personalised solutions on customer satisfaction

  • ⛳️ Strategy 2: Enhance communication and transparency

    • Use clear and simple language in all customer communications
    • Improve online platforms to offer easily accessible information on products and services
    • Train customer service representatives to provide accurate and clear information
    • Implement proactive communication strategies to keep customers informed about changes
    • Develop a FAQ section on the website to address common customer queries
    • Create informative and engaging content about banking services and products
    • Regularly update customers on security measures and privacy policies
    • Host regular webinars and workshops to educate customers on financial management
    • Incorporate customer feedback into communication strategies
    • Evaluate the effectiveness of communication strategies through customer surveys

  • ⛳️ Strategy 3: Leverage innovative technology

    • Invest in the latest technology to enhance digital banking platforms
    • Ensure mobile and online platforms offer a seamless user experience
    • Implement AI and data analytics to personalise customer interactions
    • Automate routine transactions to improve service efficiency
    • Offer virtual financial advice through secure digital channels
    • Regularly update digital platforms to incorporate customer feedback
    • Provide robust security features to protect customer data and build trust
    • Integrate chatbots for 24/7 customer assistance
    • Organise regular digital literacy sessions for customers
    • Continuously monitor and upgrade technology to stay ahead of market trends
personalizationtechnologycustomer-service-representativedata-analystinnovation-teamcommunication-team
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Strategies and tactics for enhancing Phishing-Resistant Authentication

  • ⛳️ Strategy 1: Implement multi-factor authentication (MFA)

    • Use hardware-based MFA tokens for all employees
    • Require biometric authentication where possible
    • Educate employees about the importance of MFA
    • Regularly update and rotate MFA devices and methods
    • Integrate MFA in all critical applications and systems
    • Monitor and audit MFA usage for compliance
    • Ensure backup and recovery options for lost MFA devices
    • Test and update MFA systems against phishing attacks
    • Implement adaptive risk-based MFA
    • Provide user support for MFA-related issues

  • ⛳️ Strategy 2: Enforce a no BYOD policy

    • Develop and implement a strict no BYOD policy
    • Communicate the policy clearly to all employees
    • Conduct training sessions on the risks of BYOD
    • Deploy company-approved devices with secure configurations
    • Regularly inspect and audit company-issued devices
    • Maintain an inventory log of all approved devices
    • Implement remote wipe capabilities for lost or stolen devices
    • Set up access controls to prohibit non-approved devices
    • Review and update the policy periodically
    • Provide secure alternatives for employees needing flexibility

  • ⛳️ Strategy 3: Transition to secure remote access solutions

    • Evaluate current VPN infrastructure for security gaps
    • Consider replacing VPN with Azure Virtual Desktop (AVD) or similar solutions
    • Ensure end-to-end encryption on all remote access pathways
    • Set up split tunnelling to prevent data leaks
    • Conduct periodic security audits of remote access solutions
    • Implement network access controls for remote users
    • Offer training on secure remote work practices
    • Deploy intrusion detection systems to monitor remote traffic
    • Regularly update software and systems for remote access security
    • Assess user feedback and improve remote access experience
authenticationsecurityit-security-analystnetwork-administratorit-support-teamsecurity-operations-team
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How to track your It Support strategies and tactics

Having a plan is one thing, sticking to it is another.

Having a good strategy is only half the effort. You'll increase significantly your chances of success if you commit to a weekly check-in process.

A tool like Tability can also help you by combining AI and goal-setting to keep you on track.

More strategies recently published

We have more templates to help you draft your team goals and OKRs.

Planning resources

OKRs are a great way to translate strategies into measurable goals. Here are a list of resources to help you adopt the OKR framework:

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