Around 53% of businesses now outsource IT functions.
If you’re putting your IT into a third party’s hands, you need to know they don’t have butterfingers. Managed services can free your business up to do what it does best and give your company some peace of mind.
But with so many providers out there, how do you find the one that works for you?
Below, we’re looking at what you need in IT managed services providers.
Communication
Strong communication is vital to almost every aspect of a business. No surprise, then, that it goes for managed service providers, too.
You need to know what’s happening with your IT service at all times. You need a provider that will speak to you to understand the nature of your business. And you need a provider that will answer your questions and respond to your needs.
All of that can only happen if your provider establishes two-way communications with you.
Understanding
The general principles of business IT may not change, but no two businesses are exactly alike.
Your IT managed service provider should take the time to understand your needs and deliver a package that works for you. A one-size-fits-all solution isn’t likely to address your specific business objectives.
Look for a provider who shows interest in learning about you from the outset, not one who’s selling you something off-the-shelf. That’s how you’ll know you’re dealing with a company that has your business, not their own wallet, at heart.
Responsiveness
When things go wrong, you need a response — and fast. IT problems cause damage to the bottom line of business in real-time. In IT, a slow service might as well be none at all.
Managed service companies worth considering are those that can make and keep promises regarding response times. You need service level agreements in place that will guarantee this aspect of the service.
Technology
By handing off your IT to managed IT services, you’re putting your business in their hands.
You need to know that the managed service has the technology to deliver success for your business, both hardware and software. An IT company will live or die by its technology, so don’t be afraid to ask what they offer in that arena.
It’s helpful to come to the table with technology you consider must-haves. Cloud-based services, for example, are increasingly popular, so you may choose a provider that specializes in these.
Continuity
The service outage has fast become one of the biggest nightmares facing modern business.
IT service outages can cause millions of dollars of lost revenue.
An effective managed IT services provider is one that can ensure your continuity of service with redundant systems and robust backups. That will allow your business to get back to work ASAP after an outage — if you ever notice it at all.
Choosing From IT Managed Service Providers
There’s a wide range of IT managed service providers out there to choose from, all of varying quality. By following these pointers, you can find the right partner for your business.
Looking for an IT consultation? You can contact us today.
