Businesses increasingly rely on technology, so the need for managed IT services is growing. In 2019, global IT services spending surpassed one trillion U.S. dollars for the first time.
If you’re considering hiring a managed IT service provider, there are some crucial questions you should ask first. By asking these questions, you can be sure that you are choosing the right information technology solutions provider for your business needs. This blog will discuss four of the most important questions before deciding.
What Services Do You Offer?
The Americas region is currently the largest market for IT services and business services worldwide. North America is expected to grow at a CAGR of 11.42% in managed IT services from 2016-2021.
When considering a managed IT service provider, ask about the specific services they offer and if they fit your business needs.
Some common managed IT services include:
-Help Desk Support
-Network Management
-Security Services
-Data Backup and Disaster Recovery
-Cloud Computing
Depending on your business, you may need all or only a few of these services. A good provider can tailor their services to meet your specific business needs. Ensure that the provider you are considering has experience with businesses similar to yours in size and industry.
What Is Your Experience In The Industry?
Employment in the information technology occupation is projected to grow 11 percent from 2019 to 2029. In addition, as the number of devices connected to the internet grows, demand for computer and information technology workers will increase.
If you choose an IT service provider, you will want to ask about their industry experience level. For example, how many years of business have they done? Do they have expert experience working with businesses in your industry?
The right managed IT service provider will have a wealth of experience and knowledge to draw from, which can benefit your business.
What Is Your Pricing Model?
The prices for managed IT services can vary greatly. For example, some IT firms charge a flat monthly fee, while others charge an hourly rate. Ask about the pricing model to ensure you get the best value for your money.
The charges may vary based on your required services and the number of devices you have. In addition, some companies offer discounts for longer-term contracts, so be sure to ask about this.
You can choose bundled services or à la carte services depending on your needs. Ask the provider about their recommendations and what would work best for your company.
Some managed IT service providers will try to lock you into a long-term contract. While there can be benefits to this, such as a lower monthly rate, be sure to read the contract carefully before signing. You should be able to cancel the contract if you are not satisfied with the services provided.
How Are Your Services Delivered (Remote, On-Site, Etc)?
Many companies offer cloud-based solutions which can be accessed remotely, making support more convenient. However, some issues may require on-site visits, so you must know your options.
Remote support can be delivered through several methods, such as phone, email, and chat. Some companies also offer remote desktop services, which give the support team access to your system to make changes or diagnose problems.
On-site support generally requires an appointment and can take longer to resolve issues.
Conclusion
These questions will give you a great starting point, whether a small business or enterprise. The answers to these questions will help you determine if the provider is the right fit for your company and if they can provide the services you need to keep your business running smoothly.
