What to Look for in a Good Managed IT Provider
Traditionally, businesses have relied on their own in-house IT teams to maintain their infrastructure and provide technical support. However, the cost of building an internal IT department that can handle today’s ever-changing technology can be out of reach for many small and medium-sized businesses.
That’s why many SMBs are turning to Managed IT Services to fulfill their IT needs. A Managed IT Services provider is a third party that can manage or deliver IT services such as network, application, infrastructure, or security management and provide other technologies and services.
If you are considering partnering with an IT Services provider, here are a few things to consider:
Offerings and Service Scope – Managed IT providers offer different services, with some specializing in particular fields and targeting certain business models. Since your organizational IT needs are unique, choose a Managed IT provider that will meet all your IT requirements, including short and long-term goals.
Service-Level Agreement (SLA) – Before signing a partnership contract with an IT service provider, you should understand the terms. The SLA outlines the provider’s role and responsibilities, detailing warranties, indemnity, pricing, client roles, contract termination procedure, and legal liabilities. Consider a provider with an SLA that favors the growth of your business.
Relevance to Your Business – A Managed IT Services partnership ought to steer growth by ensuring your IT investments align with your business goals and objectives. Look for a Managed IT Services provider that takes a proactive approach to identifying security, cost, and performance issues and who will offer actionable recommendations.
Availability – Businesses are under constant threat of cyber-attacks, necessitating round-the-clock security monitoring and early mitigation in case of an incident. A Managed IT provider should be available 24/7 to provide support when needed. Inquire about their on-site and off-site availability before settling on a particular provider.
Expertise and Certifications – Ask for licenses, certifications and accreditations to ascertain their areas of specialization and expertise. If you’re seeking an MSP to help with Microsoft-based business solutions, check for badges such as Gold and Silver awarded by Microsoft. The more the certifications, the greater the skill and experience.
Credibility – Customer feedback can tell you more about a provider than their advertisements or website. Evaluate testimonials and reviews to know whether a provider will give value to your money.
Professionalism – Besides providing beneficial solutions to your business, a Managed IT Services provider should demonstrate a strong ethic based on professionalism and commitment. Since it is a partnership, their work culture should align with your business culture.
Final Note
From cost-savings to round-the-clock IT services and support, expert advice and reduced strain on your in-house IT staff, investing in Managed IT Services is a smart move for any business. Contact us to learn more!
About PrimeEdge Technology
PrimeEdge is a premier office technology solutions and services provider based in Winchester, VA. Services include Managed IT, Managed Print, Voice, Unified Communications and XaaS. Products include a wide variety of HP Printers, Scanners, MFPs, Computers and Workstations.
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