Technology guides for business owners
AI and IT industry news, and practical technology guides on software, cloud, security, systems and data. New articles every week.

SME AI adoption: NAB survey finds owners want working examples, not hype
NAB research released on 21 August 2026 found about 40% of SMEs use AI. See what would build confidence for the rest, and where owners expect value first.

Xero adds a month-end agent and a ChatGPT plugin at Xerocon Denver
Xero showed a month-end agent, a ChatGPT plugin and wider Copilot links at Xerocon Denver. What was announced and how Australian SMEs can prepare.

N-able N-central alert: the question to ask your IT provider this week
The ACSC has issued a high alert on N-able N-central flaws being exploited in Australia. What it means and six questions to put to your IT provider now.

Choosing a CRM for a growing service business: what to check before you commit
Choosing a CRM for a growing service business: must-have features, off-the-shelf versus custom, accounting integration, data export and privacy duties.

AI in English tests and language learning: what the latest changes mean for learners and trainers
IELTS is now computer-only in Australia, Pearson has AI practice for PTE, ChatGPT can quiz and converse, and ASQA set AI principles for trainers.

Should your small business build software or buy a subscription?
Build vs buy software for small business: when a subscription is enough, when a small custom system wins, and the privacy and ownership checks to make.

DeepSeek V4 Pro goes live with peak and off-peak AI pricing
DeepSeek V4 Pro left preview on 13 August 2026 with open weights and peak and off-peak API prices. The rates, Australian peak hours and the data question.

Claude in Chrome side panel is now Claude Cowork: a browser AI agent for small teams
Anthropic has turned the Claude in Chrome side panel into a Claude Cowork session. What changed, the risks it names, and how an SME can trial it safely.

Windows zero-day under attack: why Microsoft's August patches cannot wait
Microsoft's August 2026 updates fix CVE-2026-68820, a Windows flaw already used in attacks. Who is affected and a patching checklist for small business.
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