At least 60% of organizations will depend on managed services by 2025. As a result, the global managed services market could reach $393.72 billion by 2028. Some of these managed IT service providers have more experience than others, though.
Before requesting IT services, it's important to thoroughly vet your options. Here are seven questions to ask before choosing IT professionals for your business.
With these tips, you can make sure you're choosing an experienced, expert team. Read on to start your search today!
1. How Long Have You Operated?
During your search for technology services, take the time to determine how long each IT company has run and operated.
An established IT business has likely earned the respect and trust of their clients over time. These businesses have likely learned from operational issues in the past, too. Since they've grown over time, they're more likely to offer you a better customer experience.
A new business, on the other hand, might still need to work out operational issues. For example, maybe they don't have an efficient way to respond to support tickets.
Maybe they still experience issues with billing or communicating with clients.
Finding a long-standing business with an experienced team will give you peace of mind. These teams will have an easier time meeting your needs and expectations. Meanwhile, they can streamline your experience as a customer.
If you experience IT issues, you won't have to waste time waiting for help. Instead, you can have peace of mind knowing an experienced team is on the job. They can leverage their experience and expertise to ensure you receive help as soon as possible.
There are now over 557,000 technology businesses throughout the US. These businesses employ over 12.1 million tech workers. However, some IT specialists have more experience than others.
A team full of experienced experts is less likely to make costly mistakes when helping their clients.
2. How Many People Are On Your Team?
It's not enough to find a team of IT professionals with years in the industry, though. If there are only two people on the team, you'll have to wait to receive help.
The longer you wait to receive help, the more likely your own clients will grow frustrated. If they keep encountering problems with your business, they might tell others. Your brand's reputation might plummet, impacting your ability to attract future clients.
Before that can happen, find a large IT team.
These teams will have an easier time managing an array of clients.
Determine how many clients they're currently managing, too.
Otherwise, ask if you'll work with a dedicated IT technician. Working with the same technician can save you time and stress in the future. You won't have to explain your IT infrastructure or the problems you experienced in the past.
Determine how you'll communicate with your technician, too. For example, will you call them directly or send in a support ticket online?
Understanding the IT company's process can help you determine if they align with your needs.
3. What Services Do You Offer?
Before hiring IT services, take a moment to review your current infrastructure. Where are you currently experiencing problems or bottlenecks? Make a list of your needs and goals.
Then, determine what technology services each company on your list offers. Look for a company that offers a range of services, such as:
- Cybersecurity
- Cloud services
- Scale computing
- Network infrastructure
Finding a team that offers a range of IT services can make the entire process more manageable and predictable.
Ask the company if they'll take a proactive approach to your IT needs, too. These companies will evaluate your current infrastructure and pinpoint potential problems. Then, they'll help you apply preventative measures before those problems can slow down your operations.
With the right managed IT services, you can streamline your entire operation, boost productivity, and improve your ROI. Your employees and customers will experience less stress, too!
4. Do You Offer Remote Monitoring?
Ask each company if they offer remote management and monitoring services as well.
You shouldn't have to wait for your IT technician to arrive on-site to fix a problem. Otherwise, that time could cost you customers, money, and your reputation.
A company that offers remote monitoring and management services can help your business regardless of where you're located. As soon as there's an issue, they can take action to provide a solution. The sooner there's a fix, the sooner you can get your operations back up and running.
5. What Are Your Response Times?
Determine how long on average it takes each business to respond to a support ticket.
Understanding each company's response times can help you find a team that can offer immediate technology solutions. Remember, the longer you wait for help, the more likely your customers will get frustrated.
Gathering response times from more than one IT company can help you determine the average wait time, too.
6. Can You Provide Testimonials?
Reviewing client testimonials can help you find a trustworthy, reputable company.
A company that already has a strong reputation will want to maintain that reputation by offering the best IT services possible.
Check online for reviews, too. You can find client reviews on the company's BBB and Google Business profile.
7. Can I See a Contract?
Ask each company for an itemized list of their IT services as well. Then, compare your options. Requesting more than one pricing list can help you determine the average price for IT services.
If someone's pricing is too high or too low, ask the company how they determine their pricing.
Otherwise, ask each company for a copy of their contract to make sure there aren't any hidden fees or surprises.
Strong Support: Find the Best IT Services Available Today
Finding the best IT services doesn't have to feel stressful. Instead, ask these questions as you continue vetting your options. Then, review your notes to find the best IT solutions for your business.
With help, you can improve your operations and boost your ROI.
Eager to get immediate help from IT professionals in Dallas and Houston? We're here to help.
Contact us today to get started.
