Choosing the right managed IT provider can be one of the most important decisions for your business. The right partner will help you leverage technology strategically, while the wrong one can lead to frustration, downtime, and wasted resources.
What to Look For
1. Industry Experience
Look for providers with experience in your industry. They'll understand your specific compliance requirements, workflows, and common challenges. Ask for case studies or references from similar businesses.
2. Service Offering Alignment
Ensure the provider offers the services you need today and may need tomorrow. A comprehensive provider can grow with you, avoiding the complexity of managing multiple vendors.
3. Response Times and SLAs
Clear service level agreements (SLAs) define what you can expect. Look for specific commitments around response times, resolution times, and system uptime. Don't accept vague promises.
4. Security Approach
In today's threat landscape, security can't be an afterthought. Your provider should implement multi-layered security, stay current on threats, and provide security awareness training for your team.
5. Communication Style
Your IT provider will be a key partner. They should communicate in clear, non-technical language and be proactive about keeping you informed. Schedule a consultation to assess their communication style.
6. Scalability
As your business grows, your IT needs will evolve. Choose a provider who can scale services up (or down) without disruption.
7. Pricing Transparency
Understand exactly what's included in quoted prices and what costs extra. Predictable monthly pricing helps with budgeting and avoids surprises.
Red Flags to Avoid
Questions to Ask
Before making a decision, ask potential providers:
1. What is your typical response time for critical issues?
2. How do you handle after-hours emergencies?
3. What security measures do you implement?
4. How do you stay current with technology changes?
5. What is your onboarding process?
6. Can I speak with current clients?
7. What happens if we need to end the relationship?
Making Your Decision
Take your time evaluating providers. Schedule consultations with your top choices, check references, and trust your instincts about the partnership. The right provider will be patient, transparent, and genuinely interested in understanding your business.
At iSeries Integrated Solutions, we believe in earning your trust through excellent service and clear communication. We're happy to answer your questions and provide references from businesses like yours.