The newly launched Lite.IT service, an online support tool, was developed to provide IT assistance to consumers and small businesses. Essentially, it proactively maintains the well-being of a computer through automation, with experts on-hand to assist via instant messaging and remote access should any issues arise.

Now, more than ever before is the time that people, especially those who are not accustomed to working from home, need IT support. Adapting to all the changes required during these stressful times, including home-schooling and the exponential surge in accessing online utilities, many people would have experienced an IT glitch or problem at some stage without anyone to help. 

Furthermore, the negative impact of the enforced COVID-19 lockdown on South Africa’s small businesses has been well publicised. The Small Business Association recently shared that “the average cash safety net for small businesses is estimated to last only 27 days.” While there are various avenues to access financial aid during the pandemic, the process is in many cases, oversubscribed, slow, and there is no guarantee that the application/s will be approved.

Recognising the dire financial challenges South Africans are facing as a consequence, Lite.IT, will provide the service free of charge for the first three months. The co-founders, Steven Preston and Brett Scott expressed, “People without access to on-site IT consultants, considered non-essential service providers during the lockdown, can experience heightened stress and anxiety in an already challenging environment.” 

Preston shared, “The cost of the IT support package that’s being deferred for the three months is R119 a month per computer. There are no long-term contracts and no set-up fees. Once the automated service assistant app is installed, customers receive remote support, anti-virus and ransomware protection, automated machine optimisation, software upgrades and monthly reporting. Users will be able to log a ticket detailing the technical  issues they’re experiencing. And there aren’t any restrictions on the number of tickets logged. ”

He explained that Lite.IT will absorb the US software license costs. “We’re really trying to play our part in helping individuals and small businesses alleviate cashflow constraints and maintain fully operational IT systems to curb additional worries.”