Independent technology advisory
Considering an expensive IT upgrade, changing technology providers, or planning a major project?
North Sound provides experienced, independent guidance to help business owners understand their options and make informed technology decisions.
When an independent perspective helps
You don't need to change IT providers or commit to a long-term consulting relationship to get help with an important technology decision. North Sound works with small-business owners on specific questions, assessments, and projects.
Your IT provider recommends replacing equipment, moving to a new platform, or making a substantial investment. You want to understand the recommendation, the alternatives, and the likely costs before approving the project.
You're reviewing your IT costs, considering a different provider, or wondering whether your current services still meet your business's needs. An independent review can help clarify what you're receiving and what may need attention.
You're planning a migration, selecting new business software, or making changes to your infrastructure. You want experienced guidance before committing your business to a particular approach.
How North Sound can help
Understand what your IT provider is recommending, why it may be necessary, and whether other approaches deserve consideration. Review significant technology proposals before committing your budget.
Explore proposal reviewsGet a clearer picture of your existing technology, including infrastructure, security practices, backup arrangements, and opportunities for improvement. Identify priorities before investing in new systems.
Explore assessmentsPlan technology changes, establish practical requirements, evaluate alternatives, and make more informed purchasing and vendor decisions.
Explore planning servicesExample engagement
Your IT provider recommends replacing your network equipment. The proposal looks reasonable, but it's a substantial investment. How do you know whether the equipment needs replacing now, whether the proposed solution fits your business, or whether there's a better alternative?
North Sound reviews the recommendation, examines the technical and business considerations, and gives you a clear, independent perspective.
Understand what you're buying. Know what you're approving.
Discuss a proposal
Experience
North Sound draws on more than 20 years of experience in technology consulting, network architecture, information security, and managed IT services. That background includes technology risk consulting at Arthur Andersen and Protiviti, as well as founding and operating an IT services company in Western Washington.
Having worked both as an independent consultant and as an IT service provider, the practice understands that a technically sound recommendation must also be practical to implement, maintain, and support.
Learn about the approachNotes & projects
Practical observations on business technology, interesting technical problems, and lessons from real-world projects.
Explore how Tamermap combines interactive maps, card shop listings, hunt-planning tools, and shop-owner features in a custom web application.
A casino's connected aquarium reportedly transferred 10GB of data to Finland. The strange true story offers a practical lesson about overlooked network devices.
Why a finished installation can still leave a business unsure who will maintain the system, and what to settle before the project starts.
Contact
Tell us a little about what you're considering. We'll review your inquiry and let you know whether it's something North Sound may be able to help with.
Get in touch