Working with outsourced IT support services can make a significant difference to your operations – and your bottom line. Having made the decision to outsource, the next step is to find a partner that will be right for you and your business.
Preparing to find a managed service provider
Take some time to think about what you are trying to achieve by outsourcing IT processes and services, as this will make it easier to find the right fit. If you are not sure, try finding a provider willing to offer an initial consultation or assessment.
It is always useful to hire an IT service provider that can provide you with some flexibility. Remember: just because you do not need particular service now, you may in the future.
Finally, remember to give some thought to your budget.
Consider access to in-person IT support services
While many IT support and infrastructure services and procedures can be provided remotely, there will be occasions when you may need someone to attend at your premises to deal with an issue. When this happens, it is likely the need will be urgent.
For this reason, finding an IT services provider that is relatively close by can be advantageous. In addition, it will also be easier to build a durable business relationship with them.
Using online tools to find a strategic IT support partner
Web search engines
A quick search will reveal dozens of results. While some local IT service providers may be displayed in the results without specifying a locality, it is still worth adding your area as a key search term, especially as the top results may be sponsored ads for businesses that are not local to you.
You can also search by using online business directories or user review aggregation sites.
Researching websites for detailed information
When you have identified some options, take some time to explore the websites of these IT service providers and check that they provide the services you want.
You should also look out for the following:
- Accreditations or recognised quality assurance checkmarks: Are these displayed prominently?
- Testimonials: Take a moment to read these. Do they sound authentic? What types of clients have they worked with successfully?
- Bios and mission statements: Read the ‘about’ page of a site to get a feel for what the people behind the business are like.
Even if they are not an internal resource, a good managed IT service provider should work closely alongside you, so you will want a service provider aligned with your own business values.
Outsourced IT service provider recommendations
You may also find that local networking groups come up with helpful leads. In addition to personal recommendations, there may even be IT support providers affiliated with your networking group or event.
Social media is another good source for information. Try searching platforms that facilitate business classifieds, such as LinkedIn or Facebook.
Check how frequently the business posts updates. It will not necessarily be a daily or weekly activity. However, if they have not posted anything for years, it may be worth considering why.
A reputable managed IT support provider for Surrey and Sussex
At Micro Maintenance, we know our customers and their businesses, and they know us. We achieve this by taking the time to understand the needs of our customers and providing them with solutions that fully utilise the breadth of our industry knowledge, experience and technological proficiency.
If you are a small- or medium-sized organisation in need of outsourced IT support expertise, either to work with your own IT team or in place of your own internal resource, we can help.
To get started in realising the potential of your investment in IT infrastructure, speak to our friendly and helpful team today.
