Category: Special Topics

  • Chip and Pin – Why Bother?

    Chip and Pin – Why Bother?

    If you work in retail or use a credit card, you have come across the latest technology: chip and pin.  In the U.S. this is a newer and less prevalent technology than it is in the rest of the world.  However, that does not diminish its importance.

    The more technical name for this technology is EMV (a shortened version of the card schemas: Europay, MasterCard, and Visa) but you can find usually find both phrases used in discussions about it.  You may wonder what good it is and why it matters.  If you are a company that accepts credit cards, this is a technology crucial to your future.  The sooner you embrace it, the better.

     

    Chip and Pin is More Secure

    Chip and pin cards are more secure than traditional card swipe solutions.  This is due to more built-in validation and verification.  Without getting too technical, the big difference is that traditional cards use only a card number and expiration date in a transaction.  The chip contains much more information that can be used to make it that much harder for hackers to fake a transaction.

    (more…)

  • IT Assessments Defined

    IT Assessments Defined

    We mention IT assessments as part of the work we do at RB Consulting.  Unfortunately, this is a new concept to some people.  Thus, it may help to look at what one is, and why anyone would want one performed.  A good start is to think about an accounting

    A good start is to think about an accounting audit or similar assessment process.  A financial audit is done to help you get a picture of your financial state on paper and in reality.  An IT assessment is similar; it helps you get a view of the state of your IT situation on paper and in reality.

    The evaluation of IT strategy and implementation is becoming more common as IT has grown to be more critical to the success of companies in any industry.  We now have the quick answer to the question of why one would want to do an IT assessment.  IT is a critical factor in the success of a company so knowing whether IT is a strength or weakness is an essential piece of proper management and decision making.

    (more…)