Though our world is powered by ever-evolving technology, choosing the right IT (information technology) services for your business isn’t as easy as you may think. The provider you choose isn’t simply a vendor – they become a key aspect of your business’ productivity and its overall success. That said, making the wrong decision could be detrimental to your organization. To avoid a disastrous outcome, we’ve compiled our top “dos and don’ts” for choosing the best IT services for your business.
The “Dos”
1. Do Make Security a Top Priority
Modern-day businesses typically store large amounts of data, making them a gold mine for cybercriminals. In this regard, you should choose an IT service provider that you fully trust with the safekeeping of your organization’s datasets. High-quality providers will not only armor your business with secure technologies but also offer routine updates and a well-constructed incident response plan in case of a data breach.
2. Do Seek Out Providers With Extensive Experience
IT services are not one-size-fits-all, so you should always seek out providers that have experience working with businesses in your industry. While many IT service providers may have the technological skills to enhance your organization, they may not be equipped to handle challenges that arise in your specific field of business. You can typically find a provider’s certifications and client references on their company website.
3. Do Decide What Level of Support Your Business Needs
IT services range in complexity, from the very basics, such as ensuring that systems and networks are running smoothly, to multi-tiered support, covering cybersecurity, software development, and data management. Assess your organization’s specific requirements before choosing an IT service provider, as this will help you narrow your options and pick the best fit for your business.
4. Do Communicate Clearly and Frequently
Communication is key in any business relationship, especially when it comes to getting the most out of IT services – something both you and your provider should agree on. Your provider should be able to explain every step of their processes and be transparent regarding any issues that may arise with the services they provide to your organization. In addition, they should have speedy response times for any questions or concerns you may have for them.
5. Do Understand and Analyze Service and Support Levels
No matter what provider to use for your organization’s IT support, you will likely meet with them and agree to a set of reasonable goals and expectations for their services. This methodology is known as a service level agreement (SLA). When creating this SLA, you and your provider can reach agreements regarding service capabilities, response times for inquiries and issues, and specific resolution processes that align with both their capabilities and your business’s unique needs. While having 24/7 access to your IT service provider isn’t a must, it can be a game changer for businesses that have irregular hours or prefer frequent communication.
The “Don’ts”
1. Don’t Compromise Quality for Cost
We know that running a business is a costly ordeal – from paychecks to vendor bills to rent. However, you shouldn’t settle for subpar IT services based on their cost. Since you’ll be giving your provider access to valuable data and trusting them with the inner workings of your organization, you must ensure you place technological responsibilities in the right hands. Plus, although a high-quality service provider may cost a bit more than other run-of-the-mill services, the benefits and growth they can bring to your business will be well worth the small sacrifice.
2. Don’t Only Focus on the “Now”
As we previously stated, IT services can initiate massive growth and success within your organization. With that being said, it’s vital to take this into consideration when shopping for a provider – especially if you have pre-set plans for expanding your business. While the current state of your organization may not call for high-tech, multi-level IT services, that doesn’t mean they won’t be necessary in the future. In short, ensure you partner with a service provider that can grow with your business.
3. Don’t Skim Through Terms and Contracts
It’s important to note that, since IT services are so heavily involved in every aspect of your business, you’ll most likely be faced with extensive paperwork before they’re implemented. We know that spending long periods reading through terms and conditions, and signing your way through various papers isn’t anyone’s idea of fun. However, you must pay special attention to each document, as they’ll specify the provider’s terms of service, their responsibilities, potential liabilities, and other crucial information. Plus, when you consider the positive attributes a trusted service provider can bring to your organization, you’ll find that taking time to thoroughly read each contract is more than worth the hassle.
4. Don’t Force the Partnership to Work
IT services are just like any other business partnership – sometimes your expertise, values, and work ethics will align, and sometimes they won’t. For this reason, you should pay special attention to a provider’s track record, customer testimonials, and case studies. Just like choosing the right provider for your business can boost productivity, opting for the wrong one can have the opposite effect.
5. Don’t Choose a Provider With Hidden Fees
Although IT services are a worthy investment for any business, there is (unfortunately) the possibility that you’ll be faced with hidden fees from some providers. It’s a common occurrence for an IT provider to offer their services for a low baseline price, but charge high or frequent fees for routine services such as technical support or system upgrades. In this respect, it’s pivotal to your business’s financial well-being to fully understand the total cost of your IT services.
The “Dos” and “Don’ts” of Choosing an IT Services Provider: Solved
Though navigating the world of IT services may seem daunting, choosing the best provider becomes a breeze when you follow these 10 essential “dos” and “don’ts.” This rings especially true when you consider how much your organization could thrive with a reliable provider in your corner. If you’re looking for well-trusted IT services from experts with years of experience for your Green Bay, Menomonee Falls, or Fox Cities business, contact Wisconsin Document Imaging today!