NextGen Automation is proud to announce a strategic partnership as the majority shareholder of Innov8 Digital Solutions. This powerful alignment brings together two industry leaders, expanding our technology services, IT expertise, and customer support capabilities across Western Canada.

Let’s be real—work can be stressful. Whether you’re managing an overflowing inbox, dealing with a never-ending to-do list, or just trying to survive another day of Microsoft Teams meetings , stress finds a way to sneak in. But here’s the good news: April is Stress Awareness Month , which means it’s the perfect time to hit the reset button and create a more balanced, stress-free work environment! From smart office solutions to simple daily habits , we’re sharing some game-changing ways to keep your cool—whether you’re working from home or at the office. Ready? Let’s breathe in… and out… and dive in. 🧘‍♂️ 1. Upgrade Your Office Setup for Maximum Zen You know what’s stressful? A slow computer, a jammed printer, and a cluttered workspace. Let’s fix that. ✅ Invest in an Ergonomic Setup – Your chair shouldn’t feel like medieval torture. A standing desk, ergonomic chair, and proper monitor height can make a world of difference. ✅ Declutter Your Desk – A messy desk = a messy mind. Keep only the essentials and invest in smart storage solutions to keep things tidy. ✅ Upgrade Your Office Tech – If your printer is still stuck in 2010 and your Wi-Fi moves at the speed of a snail, it’s time for an upgrade. NextGen Automation offers top-of-the-line printers, scanners, and IT solutions to keep your workflow smooth (and stress-free!). 🚀 Pro Tip: Switching to a managed IT service means fewer tech meltdowns. Let us handle the headaches while you focus on what you do best! 2. Use Smart Automation to Reduce Mental Load Your brain is not a filing cabinet. The more tasks you try to juggle, the more stressed you’ll feel. Let’s work smarter, not harder! ✅ Automate Repetitive Tasks – Set up auto-replies, scheduled reports, and automated workflows to save time. ✅ Use Auto-Toner Replenishment – Running out of toner mid-project? Not on our watch. NextGen Automation’s auto-toner replenishment program makes sure you’re always stocked. ✅ Sync Your Calendar with Smart Alerts – No more last-minute meeting surprises. Schedule reminders so you always feel one step ahead. 📌 Stress-Free Hack: Batch similar tasks together (emails, calls, meetings) to reduce mental fatigue and stay focused! 3. Create a More Relaxing Office Atmosphere Who says offices have to be dull and stressful? Make your workspace a place you actually enjoy being in. ✅ Bring in Greenery – Studies show that plants boost productivity and reduce stress . A little desk plant = instant mood lift! 🌿 ✅ Use Soothing Background Music – Classical? Lo-fi beats? White noise? Find what works for you. (Just maybe skip the death metal during deep focus time. 😉) ✅ Try an Air Purifier – A fresh, clean environment helps with focus and well-being. NextGen’s air purifiers keep your workspace fresh and allergy-free! 🚀 Bonus Tip: Use warm lighting instead of harsh fluorescents to create a more calming workspace! 4. Set Boundaries & Take Mindful Breaks Non-stop work = instant burnout. Give yourself permission to step away! ✅ Use the 20-20-20 Rule – Every 20 minutes, look 20 feet away for 20 seconds to reduce eye strain. ✅ Take Real Lunch Breaks – Step away from your desk (yes, really). A short walk or a mindful meal recharges your energy . ✅ Set “Do Not Disturb” Time – Block out focus hours so you can get work done without constant interruptions. 📌 Self-Care Hack: Use a meditation app like Headspace or Calm for a quick midday mental reset! 🧘‍♀️ 5. Stay Connected & Have Some Fun! Work is better when you actually enjoy the people you work with! ✅ Create a Fun Office Tradition – Weekly trivia, themed dress-up days, or an office pet mascot? Yes, please! ✅ Move More – Sitting all day is a fast track to feeling sluggish. A quick stretch or standing desk session can make a huge difference. ✅ Celebrate Small Wins – Got through a tough project? Finally organized your inbox? Celebrate! Recognition boosts morale and motivation. 🚀 Team Tip: Try a Friday “Good News” email where everyone shares one win from the week—big or small! Final Thoughts: Work Shouldn’t Feel Like a Pressure Cooker Stress Awareness Month is the perfect time to make small changes that lead to big improvements. From upgrading your workspace to automating tasks and making time for breaks, there are so many ways to reduce stress and bring more balance into your day. And if your office tech is adding to the chaos? We can help. 👉 Let’s make your workday easier with smarter office solutions. Check out our latest tech and automation tools today!

Tax season isn’t just stressful—it’s also prime time for cybercriminals . While you’re focused on gathering financial records and filing reports, hackers are looking for ways to steal sensitive tax data . And let’s be real, dealing with a cyber breach on top of tax season? That’s a horror story no business owner wants to experience.  Here’s why cybersecurity should be a top priority this tax season and what you can do to protect yourself.

Tax season is coming in hot, and let’s be honest—no one looks forward to it. (Except maybe accountants. But even they deserve a break!) Whether you’re a business owner, office manager, or the designated “paperwork person” in your company, preparing for tax season can be overwhelming. The good news? The right office technology can make it way easier.  Instead of drowning in a sea of crumpled receipts and outdated spreadsheets, let’s talk about how you can use tech to streamline your tax prep, reduce stress, and maybe even finish early for once.

IT downtime and cyberattacks are no longer just risks—they’re inevitable threats for Canadian businesses. The stats speak for themselves: 68% of Canadian businesses experience monthly IT downtime , with costs reaching $242,000 per hour for some industries. 45% of small businesses in Canada faced random cyberattacks in the past year , while 27% were specifically targeted . 41% of businesses hit by a cyberattack reported financial damages of $100,000 or more . The stakes are high, but with Managed IT Services from NextGen Automation, you don’t have to become part of these statistics. Here’s how we help Canadian businesses stay protected, productive, and ahead of the curve: 1. Prevent IT Downtime Before It Happens The Problem: Frequent IT disruptions lead to lost productivity, frustrated employees, and missed opportunities. The Solution: Our team offers proactive monitoring and maintenance , identifying and resolving potential issues before they impact your business. With helpdesk support and on-site assistance , we’ve got you covered no matter what. 2. Fortify Your Cyber Defenses The Problem: Cyberattacks cost Canadian businesses millions every year. With attacks increasing in frequency and sophistication, small and medium-sized businesses are prime targets. The Solution: Our 24/7 Security Operations Center provides comprehensive protection, from detecting malware and breaches to managing spam and ensuring reliable backups. We help you stay secure while you focus on growing your business. 3. Plan Ahead and Avoid Unexpected IT Costs The Problem: Unplanned expenses for new hardware, licensing renewals, or system upgrades can blow up your IT budget. The Solution: With our Strategic Account Managers , we provide 5-year budget forecasting, lifecycle planning, and ROI reviews , so your business is always prepared. 4. Reduce Human Error with Employee Training The Problem: Employee mistakes are responsible for 82% of security breaches globally , making them one of your biggest vulnerabilities. The Solution: We offer custom security awareness training , ensuring your team knows how to recognize phishing scams, set secure passwords, and handle sensitive information. 5. Streamline IT Management The Problem: Unorganized asset tracking, expired software licenses, and misplaced passwords can cause chaos in your IT environment. The Solution: NextGen Automation simplifies it all with asset and license management , giving you peace of mind and time to focus on running your business. Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late—Protect Your Business Today Canadian businesses can’t afford to ignore these risks. With NextGen Automation, you get proactive solutions, robust cybersecurity, and a partner committed to helping your business thrive. Contact Us Today Sources: ABB Canada Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB) Canadian Chamber of Commerce

How Far We've Come The tech industry has seen incredible progress in gender diversity over the years. Decades ago, women in technology were rare, often facing barriers to entry and advancement. However, thanks to ongoing efforts in education, mentorship, and workplace inclusivity, the landscape has changed significantly. Today, women are shaping innovation, leading companies, and breaking barriers in fields once dominated by men. At NextGen Automation, we recognize the vital contributions of women in the industry and are proud to support and celebrate their achievements. While progress has been made, there’s still work to be done in ensuring equal opportunities, representation, and recognition for women in tech.

NextGen Automation announces the acquisition of Com Pro Managed IT Services, expanding its expertise in Managed IT, Office Equipment, Software Integration, and Print Solutions across Western Canada. Learn how this strategic partnership enhances our offerings and supports our vision of becoming your all-in-one technology partner for streamlined business operations and improved productivity.

Is Your Cyber Insurance Up to the Task? A Deep Dive into Cybersecurity Coverage In today’s digital landscape, cyber threats are constantly evolving, and the potential financial impact on your business is more significant than ever. While you might have comprehensive business insurance, are you sure it covers the unique and growing risks associated with cybersecurity? If not, you could be leaving your business vulnerable to significant losses in the event of a cyberattack.  In this post, we take a deep dive into the world of cyber insurance, providing you with the insights you need to ensure your coverage is up to the task. Here’s what you need to know.