If you keep an eye on the news, you’ve probably seen the recent headlines about the critical security vulnerabilities affecting PHP, a programming language used by countless websites and applications around the world.
Now, we’ll be the first to admit that when headlines start throwing around words like “critical vulnerabilities”, “security risks” and “emergency updates”, it’s enough to make anyone feel a little uneasy.
Our marketing team may have had a minor panic (and possibly a few extra coffees) whilst considering changing every single login they’ve ever created, but thankfully, our technical team have been a little calmer about the whole thing!
Following the news, we’ve had many customers getting in touch to ask questions, check whether their systems could be affected and ultimately, the biggest question is “are we ok?” And we completely understand why.
When your business relies on technology every single day, the last thing you want is uncertainty about the software keeping everything running and secure.
But now the initial flurry of questions seems to have settled, it’s got us thinking about something bigger than the latest headlines…
It's Got Us Thinking About the Software We Recommend
Naturally, working with finance and ERP software every day means we spend quite a lot of time talking about features, functionality and what different solutions can do. We talk about automation, reporting, integrations, efficiency and visibility. And rightly so really. These things can make an enormous difference to how a business operates.
But what we don’t always talk about is the peace of mind that comes with having the right systems and support in place. Because when you invest in new software, you’re not just buying a collection of features, you’re making a decision about something your are going to rely on every single day.
That’s a responsibility we take seriously, and it’s one of the reasons we’re passionate about the solutions we work with, including Sage Intacct and Sage X3. They’re designed for different types of businesses and requirements, but both are built around helping organisations manage important processes more effectively. That means that when the unexpected happens, our solutions can provide greater visibility and control over those processes which can be incredibly valuable.
Take Sage Intacct for example
If you’ve work in a finance department during month-end, you’ll know that the last thing anyone needs is another complication. There’s enough going on already without having to worry about whether information is accurate, where a particular report has disappeared to or why three different spreadsheets are telling three different stories.
As a cloud-based financial management solution, Sage Intacct helps businesses automate everyday finance tasks, improve reporting and gain a clearer view of their financial performance. For growing organisations, that can mean less time spent chasing information and more time focusing on what the numbers are actually telling them.
And while Sage Intacct isn’t a cybersecurity solution, having a modern, properly managed financial platform can contribute to a more organised and resilient approach to business technology.
Particularly when it’s supported by people who understand how your business uses it.
Because sometimes, the biggest reassurance isn’t knowing every technical detail of your software. It’s knowing there’s someone who can help you understand it when you need to.
Or Sage X3 for when things are a little more technical
Of course for some businesses, things are a little more complicated.
Maybe you’re managing stock across multiple locations, coordinating manufacturing processes, working with suppliers or trying to make sure finance and operations are looking at the same information.
Suddenly, there’s a lot more to think about than what’s happening in the accounts department.
Sage X3 is an ERP solution that helps businesses connect financial management with wider operational processes including purchasing, inventory, manufacturing and distribution. Rather than having information scattered across disconnected systems, businesses can work towards a more joined-up view of their operations. And this matters, not because it magically prevents a cybersecurity incident, but because understanding your systems, your processes and how information flows through your business is an important part of managing complexity.
It’s difficult to make confident decisions when you don’t have a clear picture of what’s going on, but having the right ERP solution can help change that.
Sometimes It Takes a Headline to Make Us Ask the Right Questions
We aren’t trying to suggest that a cybersecurity headline is a reason to rush out and replace perfectly good business software. In fact, we’d encourage exactly the opposite approach. Take the time to understand what the news actually means for your organisation.
For the recent PHP vulnerabilities, businesses using affected systems should review the relevant security guidance, determine whether they’re impacted and apply the necessary updates. It’s also worth remembering that PHP-based applications can exist alongside financial or ERP software, so reviewing integrations and other connected systems can be just as important.
But beyond the immediate security concerns, we think there’s a useful conversation to be had.
When was the last time you really looked at the systems your business relies on? Not just whether they’re working, but whether they’re still the right fit, whether they’re properly maintained, whether your teams have the information they need, and perhaps most importantly, whether you have someone you trust to pick up the phone when something unexpected happens.
Because these things are easy to overlook when everything is running smoothly.
Sometimes it takes a slightly alarming headline to bring them back into focus.
So, What Have We Taken Away From All This?
Well, firstly, our Marketing team have learned that not every cybersecurity headline requires an immediate office-wide crisis meeting.
But secondly, we’ve been reminded exactly why we do what we do.
We don’t just want to help businesses choose software. We help them feel confident in the systems they’re investing in, understand how those systems support their operations and know where to turn when they need advice.
That’s why we believe the conversations surrounding solutions like Sage Intacct and Sage X3 should go beyond features and functionality. Yes, better reporting matters. Yes, automation matters. And yes, improving efficiency can make an enormous difference to a growing business.
But so too does knowing you have the right people in your corner. supporting your business and giving you the confidence that comes from knowing your technology is being properly looked after.
Because when the next unexpected headline appears, we’d much rather our customers felt comfortable picking up the phone than sitting at their desks wondering what to do next.
And as for our marketing team?
We’re pleased to report they’ve recovered. Although our Head of Marketing might be planning on a large glass of wine at 5pm!
Our Door Is Always Open
We want to make one thing clear: you don’t have to be using Sage software to have a conversation with us.
Whether you’re using Sage Intacct, Sage X3, Sage 200, Sage 50 or another finance system entirely, our team are always happy to have a chat.
You don’t need to be an existing customer, and you don’t need to be looking to buy anything.
We know how overwhelming the technical side of running a business can sometimes feel, particularly when cybersecurity headlines start appearing. And while we might not have every answer immediately, we can help you understand your concerns and point you in the right direction. Because at the end of the day, we’re not just passionate about software. We’re passionate about helping businesses feel confident in the technology they rely on.
So, Sage or not, customer or not, if you’ve got questions, get in touch.
