Introduction
Managed IT services can be an invaluable asset to a small business, and they can help you grow your company. When selecting a managed IT service provider, there are several things you need to look for in order to ensure that your business will get the best possible service.
In this article, we’re going to go over what those are. We’ll also discuss why it’s important for small businesses to have their own managed IT service provider and how these providers can help them scale up their operations without having to put a lot of time or money into their tech infrastructure.
What are Managed IT Services?
When you’re looking to outsource your IT services, it can be a bit intimidating. That’s why we’ve created this guide that will help you know what to look for in a managed IT service provider.
Managed IT services are known as an outsourcing solution for businesses that need help managing their technology infrastructure and costs but do not want to lose control of their internal operations or disrupt staff productivity. These managed services can be used by businesses of all sizes and industries, from small to large corporations or SMEs.
The reason many companies choose managed IT services is that they offer a lower cost than hiring internal employees while providing the same level of expertise and security as if those employees were working in-house (or even better).
Managed IT service providers are experts at handling everything from basic troubleshooting issues to more complicated problems such as network administration issues, software development projects, and data recovery efforts–you name it!
Bluechip, a Los Angeles managed IT service provider gives top-quality IT services in the Los Angeles area and ensures that your business stays productive while saving you money.
Why there’s a need for Managed IT Services?
If you’re like most businesses, your IT systems are a major asset. You’ve invested in them and continue to do so in order to meet the business demands of today. Unfortunately, managing those systems can be time-consuming and expensive. You may also lack the expertise needed to make sure they are secure, efficient, and functioning properly.
If this describes your company or department—or if you simply want more control over technology decisions—then it’s time for managed IT services from a certified professional who understands what it takes to deliver consistent performance while ensuring compliance with industry best practices.
Managed IT services can be an excellent solution for companies that need IT support, but don’t have the budget or capacity to hire an in-house team of experts. The benefits of managed IT consulting include:
- Cost savings
- Improved Efficiency
- Reduced Risk
Take note of these benefits when deciding whether you need or not a managed IT services for your business.
What to look for in choosing the right managed IT services provider?
Now that you know the basics of what to look for in a managed IT services provider, let’s take a look at some more specifics.
1. Technical Expertise
This is probably the most important factor because it will determine whether or not your provider can keep up with your business needs and challenges. The technical expertise of the managed IT service provider should be able to provide solutions to any issues that may arise with your company’s technology. A good managed IT services provider will have technicians who are trained and certified by their parent company, as well as on-site engineers who are always available to handle any issues that may arise.
2. Industry Expertise
Managed IT services providers who have industry expertise can help you identify the best solutions for your business. They will know how to apply technology to your business processes and systems in order to improve productivity, efficiency, and profitability.
They will also help you avoid costly mistakes by identifying potential problems before they occur.
3. Immediate Access to Live Support
The ability to get live support immediately is one of the most important things to look for in choosing a managed IT services provider.
You need to be able to talk to someone who knows your business and its specific needs. You also want someone who can help you solve problems as they arise. If your provider doesn’t offer live support, then you will have to wait until the next business day when someone from their contact center gets back to you with an answer, which can be frustrating and time-consuming.
4. Leverages Advanced Technologies
When you’re looking for a managed IT services provider, you want to make sure that they’re not just going to install your new system and then walk away. You want them to also help you develop a plan for how you’re going to use it and keep it running smoothly.
The best managed IT services providers will leverage advanced technologies like AI in networking to stay ahead of cyber threats, so you don’t have to worry about your data being compromised or your business being disrupted.
5. Flexibility and Scalability
When it comes to choosing a managed IT services provider, you want a company that is both flexible and scalable.
Flexibility means that your provider will be able to adapt to the changing needs of your business, regardless of whether those changes are sudden or gradual. A provider with this quality will be able to offer solutions for any situation you might encounter, even if it involves multiple locations or a large number of employees.
Scalability means that your provider will be able to grow alongside your company as it expands. This means that they can provide support for new employees and new locations as they come online, so you don’t have to worry about hiring someone else or dealing with an understaffed team.
6. Commitment and Reputation
The other thing you should look for in a managed IT services provider is commitment and reputation. If you’re looking for someone to manage your IT services, you want to know that they’re going to be there for you when you need them. You also want to know that they’ve been around for a while and have a good reputation in the industry.
Also, you should consider that they offer a variety of services. The more services they offer, the better chance they have of covering all of your IT needs. This will save you time as well as money.
Here are some questions to ask if you’re looking for a new or even existing managed IT services provider to narrow down your candidate list:
- What is their experience in the IT industry?
- What certifications and accreditations do they hold?
- What is their data backup & recovery plan?
- How do they handle customer support?
- How fast are they to respond to your requests for help or service, both during regular business hours and after hours (if applicable)?
- If there’s an emergency situation that requires immediate attention, how long does it take for them to get back to you with answers and solutions?
Conclusion
If you’re not sure what to look for in a managed IT services provider, no worries. We’ve laid out some questions you can ask yourself or a potential partner to help guide your decision-making process. However, we’ll leave it up to you whether or not “the right one” is out there!
