Today, outsourcing IT services to managed IT service providers is a popular choice for both small and large businesses. Gaining access to a variety of specialists at a fraction of the price of maintaining an in-house IT department is an appealing option.
With COVID-19 taking a serious toll on many companies, an opportunity to cut costs is always welcome.
Managed IT services are designed specifically to cater to businesses that either can’t support a large IT team or want to get the best services at a low price. Since the demand for such services is high, so is the supply. This makes choosing the best provider difficult.
Let’s take a closer look at how to choose this type of company and enjoy fruitful collaboration for many years to come.
1. Experience in the Industry
While IT services across industries may seem similar, each sector comes with its own nuances. That’s why it’s imperative to find an IT service provider that already has some experience working with companies in your industry.
According to experts from managed IT services in Jackson, a respectable provider may still adapt to your company’s needs even if it doesn’t have experience with similar businesses. However, such adaptation may take time.
When speaking with the candidate, look for their interest in your business and references to previous experiences.
2. Portfolio and Presence
It’s important to understand how well the company is doing. To check this, you need to look through the portfolio, check reviews online, and look at its presence on the web.
If the provider is talking about its experience with many companies but all you can find online is a poorly-designed website, it’s a red flag. A respectable company is always straightforward about proof of its achievements.
Managed IT service providers should be willing to share references, show reviews, and demonstrate a well-designed website.
With online presence being the key to the 21st-century company’s success, a business that ignores it isn’t likely to be reliable.
3. Location
While today many companies work remotely, it’s important to consider the location of a managed IT service provider. If they are located out of state or out of the country, you may face communication problems.
If you expect the managed IT service provider to respond to IT emergencies in person, make sure to hire a local company. Otherwise, it may take them too long to react.
In some cases, out of state companies prefer to hire local subcontractors. As a result, you have to work with people you didn’t choose.
4. Interview
When you are speaking with the representative, make sure to pay attention to two things:
- You shouldn’t be the only one asking questions. A respectable provider will be asking questions about your company to get the full picture of your needs. If the representative is mostly silent, it could spell trouble.
- Figure out whether or not you enjoy smooth communication with the representative. When it comes to IT issues, poor communication could prove disastrous deeper into the relationship, especially if serious security issues occur.
Take the time to get to know the company before hiring. If you don’t “click,” consider other candidates.
5. Proactive Approach
Managed IT service providers should offer a proactive approach to IT issues. A break-and-fix approach is no longer an option, especially with cybercrimes on the rise. A top-notch managed IT service provider should have thoughts and ideas about preventive measures for your company.
IT specialists you work with will need to stay on top of the latest developments and technologies to ensure the best IT services for your business. These services can be optional in the contract. Make sure you find a company that offers them.
The Takeaway
With the large choice of managed IT service providers available to business owners today, choosing the right one can be difficult. That’s why it’s imperative to take your time to learn all you can about the company.
The best managed IT service provider for your business is local, has a robust online presence, provides seamless communications, and offers a proactive approach.
