Considering Managed IT Service Providers

For the small business owner, knowing where to turn for tech support can be confusing. With many different companies to choose from, here are a few things to consider to help narrow your choices:

1. Cost

One essential task of growing a small business is keeping spending low. When considering managed IT services, be sure to do research and consider your options on how much you are willing to invest in tech support for your small business. Some things to consider are:

• Do you have common IT issues?
• Is your network secured?
• Has a professional tested your network’s security?
• What are your annual technology expenses?

Once you have considered these thoughts, you can choose a budget that fits your business’ needs.

2. Reliability

Downtime can cost businesses a significant amount of money and can create a bad reputation for a company when it creates a hassle for customers. Here are some ways to consider if a support provider is reliable or not:

• What are their response times?
• Are they available on weekends or after 5 pm?

3. Services

When choosing a managed IT service provider, you want to work with someone who is going to give you the most bang for your buck. Consider the services available with each provider:

• Which company has the broadest range of knowledge?
• Who offers the most service for their price?
• Will it require multiple professionals to get a job done?

4. Custom Options

When choosing a provider, you want to partner with someone who has your business in mind. Work with a company who creates a package built for your business, giving you what you need and not services you won’t use. Be sure they are fit to grow with your company as well in case changes, and expansions need to happen.

5. Communication

You have too much on your plate to be the one investing time to decide which products, software, and technology are best for your company. Work with a provider who will communicate which products and practices are best for your business, making sure that your systems are productive and effective.

Lakeland Office Systems is an experienced managed IT provider who has your small business in mind. Contact us today to see what options are available for your business!