Almost 70 percent of all small to medium businesses will hire at least some sort of IT service provider. With advancing technologies and new, sophisticated cyber threats, it’s not surprising that many companies choose to outsource.
However, without the right IT agency for the job, you may find yourself throwing your money down the drain or compromising the prosperity of your business.
So, how can you know which I provider is right for you? Here are six essential qualities a good managed IT service provider must have.
1. They understand you and your employee’s specific needs
There is no fix all solution for providing a sound managed IT service. After all, not every business is the same.
It’s essential that your IT provider emerges themselves within your company culture, understands what your employees need, and can turn these needs into reality.
For instance, this could be as simple as creating a more flexible working environment, with the introduction of BYOD (bring-your-own-device) initiatives. Or, perhaps, by using a suite of collaboration tools to improve colleague communication and document sharing. Regardless of what it is you need, your IT provider should recognise problems and turn them into solutions.
2. They have a deep understanding of the latest technology
For business owners short on time, keeping up to date with the latest technology is probably the last thing on their to-do list.
However, digital transformation isn’t just about streamlining processes: it’s an important part of business growth. In fact, 47 percent of organisations believe that cloud computing gives them some advantage over their competitors.
The right IT service provider will not only keep a firm footing on the forefront of technology, they’ll also help you recognise which technologies could keep your business ahead of the pack.
3. They keep your business safe and give you peace of mind
Cyber security concerns are an issue for every business. Unfortunately, many companies are lacking the expertise and skills to manage the looming threat of sophisticated malware.
It’s no surprise, then, that 79 percent of medium businesses have sought out information, advice or guidance on cyber security issues in this year alone.
When it comes to hiring the right IT service provider, be sure to choose an organisation with the right expertise to handle complex cyber security issues, and the right skills to secure your infrastructure.
4. They’re educators
Did you know that, during a simulated phishing experiment, 23 percent of users clicked the link within the malicious email? More worryingly, 12 percent of these users went on to enter their personal credentials.
Although the right managed IT service provider will do all they can to defend your business from outsider threats and malware, they’ll also understand that it’s not just those outside of your office doors that you need to worry about.
You might not have the time to educate your employees around IT security best practises, but your IT service provider should have the knowledge and the patience to share their tips.
5. They can align technology with business goals
At the end of the day, technological investments aren’t going to benefit your business unless they align with your company-wide goals.
Whether you’re looking for growth, a rise in revenue, or the ability to provision a new, tailored software, it’s essential that your IT provider can offer you the best solutions for your needs. Without the right roadmap, your investments could ultimately become unprofitable.
6. They offer 24/7 support
Whether it’s an unexpected outage, or a cyber security incident, IT issues happen when you least expect them. As a result, it’s essential you invest in a managed IT security provider who’s available to support your business 24/7.
Without round-the-clock support, you could be left floundering.
Don’t settle for less: outsource to an outstanding managed IT service provider
Your business’s growth, profitability and employees are precious. Therefore,, it’s only right that you should invest your resources in an IT service provider who’s knowledgeable, supportive and great at what they do.
So, be sure to ask the right questions before outsourcing an agency. Whether it’s ensuring they offer you the innovation you want, or the security you need, it’s important to set down your expectations from the get-go. It could save you some hassle down the line.
