Monitoring the status of accounts with IT Service providers (ISP, Domain Registrar etc.)
- by Sholom
Hi All,
Short version:
You have software that tells you when your servers power-outlet is down. It monitors multiple servers from one management console, alerts you when something is wrong etc.
Does anyone know of software that will let me take the same approach to monitor if the money-outlet (the bill!) is down (not paid) to my IT Services providers (ISP, Domain Registrar, MX Backup service etc).
I need a top down, centrally managed service that is capable of sending out alerts. Just like the one that monitors my own exchange server etc. I don't mind if i have to manually enter every payment.
Long version:
Our very likable but absent minded bookkeeper keeps neglecting to pay our IT vendors on time. Just this past week our internet service was disconnected.
Same could happen to many other mission critical accounts (domain registrar, backup MX, anti-virus license, HackerSafe (McAfee secure) service and even an 800 number to name a few).
As the sysadmin, i monitor my severs to make sure they are plugged into the power-outlet.
I believe i should also monitor my services to make sure they are plugged in to their money-outlet.
To compound the problem, when the power goes out someone else will likely notice and notify me. But if a bill is not payed, no one will ever notice until service is lost.
Lost as in losing our domain name which would cause a lot more damage then the power failing on our server.
[Solution] = [Doesn't work because]:
Retrain the bookkeeper = Wishful thinking.
Notify my manager = Already have (via email). Protects me, does not solve problem.
Fire bookkeeper = What makes you so sure the next one will never forget?
Bottom line:
Humans are humans and sooner or later something critical will be royally messed up. We need to partner with a machine to help us out here.
Anybody have the same problem?
What software/solution do you use?
I would like software that emails me when a bill is passed due just like i get an email when the power outlet fails. Anyone hear of anything like that?
Thanks
